Safety Items for Industrial Use
Safety Items for Industrial Use — What Kenyan Factories Must Have
Industrial and manufacturing environments are the backbone of Kenya’s economy — but they’re also among the most hazardous workplaces.
From chemical exposure and heavy machinery to high temperatures and electrical systems, factory workers face serious risks daily.
To keep workers safe and comply with OSHA Kenya (2007), every factory must equip itself with certified industrial safety items designed for protection, prevention, and emergency response.
Here’s your complete guide from Bansi Safety Gear on the must-have PPE and safety equipment for industrial use in Kenya.
Why Industrial Safety Matters
Accidents in factories can lead to severe injuries, financial loss, and even fatalities. OSHA Kenya mandates that every employer must provide a safe working environment and supply necessary personal protective equipment (PPE).
Benefits of proper safety gear:
- Prevents workplace injuries
- Increases productivity and morale
- Reduces downtime and insurance claims
- Ensures legal compliance
Fact: The Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS) inspects factories annually to ensure PPE compliance and worker safety.
Essential Industrial Safety Items for Factories in Kenya
Below are the top PPE and safety items required in most Kenyan industrial facilities.
1. Head Protection — Safety Helmets
Factory workers face risks from falling objects, collisions, or machinery.
Safety helmets protect against head injuries and are a legal requirement in most production environments.
Bansi Tip: Choose KEBS-certified helmets with adjustable straps and shock-absorbing liners.
2. Eye and Face Protection
Welding, grinding, and chemical handling require safety goggles, face shields, or welding helmets.
These protect eyes from sparks, dust, and harmful radiation.
Recommended:
- Chemical splash goggles
- Auto-darkening welding masks
- Full-face shields for heavy work
3. Hand Protection — Industrial Gloves
Hands are the most vulnerable in manufacturing. Use gloves designed for specific hazards:
- Cut-resistant gloves: For metal fabrication
- Chemical-resistant gloves: For paint and solvent handling
- Heat-resistant gloves: For furnaces and ovens
Bansi Suggests: Stock multiple glove types for different departments.
4. Foot Protection — Safety Boots
Factory floors expose workers to heavy items, sharp objects, and slippery surfaces.
Industrial safety boots with steel toes and anti-slip soles are mandatory PPE.
Features to check:
- Steel or composite toe caps
- Oil-resistant soles
- Electrical insulation
5. Hearing Protection
Noise levels in factories often exceed 85 decibels — dangerous for prolonged exposure.
Equip workers with earplugs or earmuffs to prevent hearing loss.
Rotate ear protection gear regularly to maintain hygiene and comfort.
6. Respiratory Protection
Factories with dust, fumes, or chemicals require respiratory masks or respirators.
These prevent inhalation of toxic particles or gases.
Types:
- N95 respirators for general dust
- Cartridge masks for chemical fumes
- Full-face respirators for high-risk zones
7. Body Protection — Overalls and Aprons
Industrial coveralls and aprons protect against heat, oil, and debris.
Different fabrics serve different industries:
- Cotton: breathable for general work
- PVC: chemical resistance
- Leather: welding and heat protection
Ensure all uniforms are flame-retardant and properly labeled.
8. High-Visibility and Reflective Gear
Visibility is crucial in large factories and loading bays.
Reflective jackets or vests help forklift operators and drivers spot workers easily.
Required for logistics, transport, and maintenance staff under OSHA Kenya.
9. Fall Protection Systems
Workers operating above ground must use harnesses, lanyards, and lifelines to prevent falls.
Industries: construction, steel, power, and manufacturing plants with elevated platforms.
Conduct routine checks for wear and tear on belts and ropes.
10. Fire and Emergency Safety Equipment
Factories should have fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, alarms, and fire hoses installed strategically.
Common extinguisher types:
- CO₂: electrical fires
- Dry powder: multi-purpose
- Foam: flammable liquids
Inspection rule: Every extinguisher must be serviced twice a year.
11. First Aid Kits
First aid kits should be accessible in all departments.
Stock with bandages, disinfectants, gloves, and burn cream.
OSHA requires a trained first aid officer for every 50 employees.
12. Signage and Safety Markings
Factories must display warning and direction signs for hazards, exits, and emergency points.
Use reflective and bilingual (English & Swahili) signage for clarity.
Bansi Safety Gear supplies OSHA-approved safety signage customized for your factory layout.
OSHA Kenya Compliance Checklist for Factories
To ensure compliance, factories should:
✅ Conduct annual safety audits
✅ Keep PPE inventory records
✅ Train workers on safety procedures
✅ Maintain fire and first aid equipment
✅ Display OSHA compliance certificate
Bansi Pro Tip: Schedule quarterly PPE inspections and replace damaged gear immediately.
How Bansi Safety Gear Supports Industrial Safety in Kenya
As a leading industrial safety supplier, Bansi Safety Gear partners with Kenyan factories to provide:
- KEBS-certified helmets, gloves, and boots
- OSHA-compliant signage and PPE audits
- Custom uniforms and reflective wear
- Emergency and firefighting equipment
Industries we serve:
- Manufacturing and processing plants
- Cement, steel, and automotive industries
- Food and beverage factories
- Power and chemical sectors
👉 Contact us today for a customized factory safety assessment and bulk supply quotation.
Where to Buy Industrial Safety Items in Kenya
You can find certified PPE at Bansi Safety Gear locations in:
Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, Eldoret — with nationwide delivery.
Popular Industrial Safety Products:
- Safety boots and helmets
- Gloves and respirators
- Fire extinguishers
- Reflective overalls and signage
All products come with KEBS certification and warranty.
Final Thoughts
Safety is the foundation of industrial productivity. By investing in genuine, certified PPE, you protect your workers, comply with the law, and build a culture of responsibility.
At Bansi Safety Gear, we’re committed to keeping Kenya’s industries safe — one helmet, glove, and harness at a time.
Stay compliant. Stay protected. Partner with Bansi Safety Gear today.