Hazard Control Technologies is a DOSH-registered consultancy and NITA-approved training provider.
Every workplace in Kenya is subject to inspection by the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH). Whether you operate a manufacturing plant in Industrial Area, a hotel in Mombasa, or a construction site in Nairobi, understanding what DOSH inspectors look for is critical to maintaining compliance and avoiding costly penalties.
Why DOSH Inspections Matter
Under Kenya's Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) 2007, employers have a legal duty to provide a safe working environment. DOSH inspectors enforce these regulations and have the authority to issue improvement notices, prohibition orders, or even prosecute for serious breaches.
Key Fact: DOSH conducted over 12,000 workplace inspections in 2024 alone, with the highest non-compliance rates found in construction, manufacturing, and hospitality sectors.
What DOSH Inspectors Check
During an inspection, DOSH officers will systematically assess your workplace against legal requirements. Here are the primary areas they focus on:
1. General Workplace Conditions
- Housekeeping: Are walkways clear? Is there adequate lighting and ventilation?
- Sanitation: Availability of clean toilets, washing facilities, and drinking water.
- Temperature & Noise: Are thermal and noise levels within acceptable limits?
2. Fire Safety & Emergency Preparedness
- Fire extinguishers — are they serviced, accessible, and correctly rated?
- Fire alarm systems — are they tested and functional?
- Emergency exits — are they clearly marked, unobstructed, and illuminated?
- Evacuation plans — are they displayed and regularly drilled?
3. Machinery & Equipment Safety
- Are machines properly guarded?
- Are electrical installations safe and compliant?
- Is there a maintenance schedule for critical equipment?
4. Hazardous Substances
- Are chemicals properly labelled and stored?
- Is there an up-to-date chemical register and Safety Data Sheets (SDS)?
- Are spill kits and PPE available for handling hazardous materials?
5. Health & Welfare Facilities
- Is there a designated first aid room or kit?
- Are there trained first aiders on site?
- Is there a system for reporting and recording accidents and incidents?
6. Documentation & Records
- Risk assessments — are they conducted and documented?
- Safety policies and procedures — are they in place?
- Training records — have employees received adequate safety training?
- Maintenance logs for safety equipment.
Common Non-Conformances Found in Kenya
Based on DOSH inspection reports, the most frequent violations include:
- Lack of risk assessments — especially for high-risk activities like working at height or confined spaces.
- Expired or missing fire extinguishers — many businesses fail to service extinguishers annually.
- Poor housekeeping — blocked fire exits, cluttered aisles, and poor waste management.
- Untrained staff — no evidence of safety induction or first aid training.
- No accident reporting system — failure to record and investigate workplace incidents.
How to Prepare for a DOSH Inspection
Being proactive is the best strategy. Here's a step-by-step checklist to help you prepare:
- Conduct a pre-inspection self-audit — identify gaps and address them before DOSH arrives.
- Update all safety documentation — ensure risk assessments, policies, and training records are current.
- Service all fire equipment — fire extinguishers, alarms, hydrants, and emergency lighting.
- Check PPE availability — ensure all employees have access to required personal protective equipment.
- Review your emergency plan — test evacuation procedures and update contacts.
- Train staff — conduct refresher safety training for all employees.
- Engage an external safety consultant — a fresh pair of eyes can spot issues you might miss.
Pro Tip: Hazard Control Technologies offers comprehensive pre-inspection safety audits, DOSH compliance reviews, and gap analysis. As a DOSH-registered consultancy with NITA-approved training, we'll help you walk into your DOSH inspection fully prepared.
What Happens After a DOSH Inspection?
After the inspection, DOSH will issue a written report detailing findings. This could include:
- No contraventions — your workplace is fully compliant.
- Recommendations — minor improvements suggested.
- Improvement Notice — specific issues to be fixed within a given timeframe.
- Prohibition Notice — immediate halt to dangerous activities until rectified.
- Prosecution — in cases of severe or repeated non-compliance.
Ignoring or failing to act on DOSH notices can lead to fines, closure orders, or legal action. It is always advisable to address findings promptly and engage a qualified HSE consultant to ensure corrective actions are compliant.
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Final Thoughts
A DOSH inspection doesn't have to be a stressful experience. With proper preparation, regular safety audits, and a commitment to workplace safety, you can not only pass your inspection but also create a safer, more productive environment for your employees.
At Hazard Control Technologies, we've helped over 600 organisations across Kenya achieve DOSH compliance through our expert safety audits, NITA-approved training, and fire equipment maintenance services. Located in Industrial Area, opposite Vivo Energy Terminal, we are a DOSH-registered consultancy and NITA-approved training provider.