Bermuda’s electricity supplier, Bermuda Electric Light Company Limited, has been certified to the ISO 45001 Occupational Health and Safety standard.

The International Organisation for Standardisation publishes international standards developed by global experts covering nearly all industries around the world. ISO is based out of Switzerland and has members from 161 countries.

Belco said the certification is a major achievement.

ISO 45001 is the globally recognised international standard for Occupational Health and Safety Management Systems. It provides a framework for organisations to proactively manage workplace risks, prevent work-related injuries and illnesses and continually improve overall safety performance.

Since 2010, Belco’s integrated Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment (OHSE) Management System has been registered to the ISO 14001 Environmental Management standard and now the company is also certified to the ISO 45001 Occupational Health and Safety standard.

A company statement said: “This certification places Belco among a select group of organisations worldwide and makes Belco the only company in Bermuda to hold both ISO 45001 and ISO 14001.”

Mark Pacheco, director, operational support services said: “This is a significant milestone for our company. We are now the only company on island with both certifications. This demonstrates our diligent approach to OHSE management and commitment to continual improvement in these important areas.

“This certification is not an award for the OHSE team alone, but rather a reflection of the entire company. It recognises everyone who influences safe behaviours, prioritises the implementation of safety controls, and genuinely believes in protecting our environment.”

Key elements of ISO 45001 include leadership commitment, worker participation, hazard identification and risk assessment, legal and regulatory compliance, emergency planning, incident investigation and continual improvement.

ISO 14001 is the international standard for Environmental Management Systems. The standard provides Belco with a framework to protect the environment and respond to changing environmental conditions in balance with socio-economic needs.