What the Occupational Safety and Health Act 2007 requires of every Kenyan employer — and how to comply.
Why this matters
Every Kenyan workplace is bound by the Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2007. Under Section 6, employers must provide — free of charge — suitable protective equipment and ensure it is properly used and maintained. This guide translates the requirements into a practical purchasing plan.
- Non-compliance risks fines, stop-work orders and liability in the event of injury.
- Buying certified equipment protects both the worker and the organization's legal position.
- Correct selection and fit are as important as the equipment itself.
Key selection criteria
Selection starts with a hazard assessment of the task, environment and worker. The table below shows the common hazards and the corresponding protective equipment to budget for.
| Hazard | Required protection | Typical standard |
|---|---|---|
| Impact / falling objects | Safety helmet (EN 397) | EN 397 |
| Chemical splash | Goggles or face shield (EN 166) | EN 166 |
| Noise above 85 dB | Ear muffs or plugs (SNR 31) | EN 352 |
| Falling from height | Full-body harness (EN 361) | EN 361 |
| Cuts & abrasions | Gloves (EN 388) | EN 388 |
| Electrical work | Insulated gloves & tools | IEC 60900 |
Budgeting for compliance
A realistic PPE budget should include inspection, replacement and training costs — typically 15–25% above the purchase price. KimSafety's bulk pricing tiers make full-team outfitting predictable and cost-effective.
- Tier 1 (1–9 units): standard pricing
- Tier 2 (10–49 units): 5% discount
- Tier 3 (50–199 units): 9% discount
- Tier 4 (200+ units): 13%+ discount, negotiable
Need certified equipment to implement this?
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