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Buying Guide

How to Choose the Right Safety Helmet

6 min read Updated July 2026By the KimSafety HSE Team
How to Choose the Right Safety Helmet

Standards, shell materials, suspension classes and the checks inspectors will make on your site helmets.

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.

HazardRequired protectionTypical standard
Impact / falling objectsSafety helmet (EN 397)EN 397
Chemical splashGoggles or face shield (EN 166)EN 166
Noise above 85 dBEar muffs or plugs (SNR 31)EN 352
Falling from heightFull-body harness (EN 361)EN 361
Cuts & abrasionsGloves (EN 388)EN 388
Electrical workInsulated gloves & toolsIEC 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?

Our specialists will help you select the right products and pricing for your team.

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