By Albert Allotey
Accra, June 12, GNA – Vivo Energy Ghana, the exclusive distributor and marketer of Shell-branded fuels and lubricants, has commemorated the 2026 Safety Day and Awards with a call on the public to move from reactive to proactive safety.
The Day was on the theme; “Prepare to Respond” and was held at the Airport City Shell in Accra on Thursday.
Mr Christian Li, the Managing Director, Vivo Energy Ghana in an address said the theme was timely because they operated in a high-risk environment, where the potential for fire, explosions, and operational failures demanded constant vigilance.
“Across the globe, many incidents in our industry are linked to gaps in risk assessment, transport safety, and operational controls. These realities remind us that safety is not theoretical – it is urgent and always demands readiness,” he stated.
Mr Li pointed out that true safety leadership was not only about preventing incidents, but also about being prepared to respond effectively.
“That is why we continue to invest in safety training, risk assessment, emergency response systems, and robust HSSEQ standards,” he stressed.
He added, saying, “We maintain critical controls such as fire suppression systems, emergency shut-off valves, and site-specific response – supported by regular drills, audits, and preventive maintenance.”
He emphasised that “A safety system that is not tested or maintained is not protection – it is a false assurance.”
The Managing Director said the celebration was a call for renewed commitment for every transporter to remain vigilant on the road, and every station operator to maintain the highest operational standards.
He said it was also a call for every contractor to comply fully with the company’s policies and protocols, including adherence to contractor safety, management framework and permit to work requirements.
He urged everyone to remain prepared to respond calmly, swiftly, and responsibly to safety.
Mr Li expressed gratitude to the HSSEQ team of Vivo Energy Ghana for their tireless dedication in ensuring the company’s operations remained safe and compliant while thanking retailers, contractors, distributors, and partners for maintaining high standards across the value chain.
He also extended gratitude to the employees of the company for proving that safety excellence is achievable when discipline and commitment come together.
He said, “The future of safety will not be defined by luck, but by preparation,” adding, “Let us continue to lead with safety, strive for excellence, act with caring, uphold respect, and never compromise on integrity.”
Professor Nana Ama Browne Klutse, CEO of the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) and the guest speaker said the 2026 Safety Day held by Vivo Energy Ghana has given the Authority assurance that the company was ready to take up leadership in safety responsibility.
She said the mandate of the EPA under Act 1124 was to regulate, protect, and to enhance the environment while promoting sustainable development, “So, we are there to support Vivo Energy to develop its projects and investment for better Ghana.”
She announced a digital platform that had been developed by the EPA for all permitting and other processes and encouraged all stakeholders to hook on to it, saying “It helps to process application much faster, while it brings efficiency and transparency.”
Many partners and employees of Vivo Energy Ghana who had demonstrated value of safety in the discharge of their duties were rewarded. They took home certificates and Chest Freezers.
GNA
Edited by George-Ramsey Benamba