1. MOI UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF HEALTH SCIENCES
SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH
DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH
A REPORT ON OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH IN FORESTRY
DEPARTMENT IN JAMES FINLAYS (K) COMPANY IN KERICHO-BOMET
COUNTIES.
Report submitted in partial fulfillment of the degree in B.Sc Environmental Health,
in Moi University.
DATE SUBMITTED: 3RD
JUNE, 2014.

2. DECLARATION
I hereby declare that this report is original and in line with my findings. It’s an initiative of my
own independent work and that the information herein has never been submitted in this or any
other institution for academic qualification or implementation.
AUTHOR: NAME REG. NO. SIGN
ERNEST KIRUI EVH/25/10 ………..
SUPERVISOR:
FINLAYS FORESTRY DEPARTMENT HEALTH AND SAFETY OFFICER
NAME DATE SIGN
MR.DONALD BARAZA KADARI ……………. ……….

3. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to acknowledge the following individuals for providing valuable contribution
towards the successful realization of the elective objectives:
- Mr. Donald Baraza Kadari for his tireless efforts in introducing and supporting me
throughout the elective period.
- Forestry department manager Mr. Josiah O. Othira for welcoming me into his department.
- Senior forestry department staff Mr. Reuben Koech, Miss Emma Saina and
Mr. Willy Kimeto for their immense input through generous information provision and
friendly coexistence within their workplaces.
- My fellow attachees Mr. Ken Mutua and Miss Loice Shitsimi for togetherness and teamwork
spirit throughout the entire period.
- Supervisors at various work places under the coverage of forestry department for welcoming
and taking me through various aspects of their worksites.
- Employees for cooperation and acceptance for information provision where it was necessary
- My family members and friends for support, encouragement and unity.
- Finally I am grateful to all, whom in one way or another made my activities in the hospital a
success.

4. ABSTRACT
Introduction: Finlays is a reputable organisation on occupational health and safety which is
geared towards achieving total health of a worker in their total environment.
Objective: The objectives of the Elective were: To acquire knowledge, experience and apply
practical skills through observation and participation in the field, to get exposure to real life
situation and take part in problem solving
Methodology: Learning information was achieved through; Direct observations, meetings
attendance, participating in field activities, discussions head of department, participation in day
to day activities and consultation.
The study was done over a five-week period from 22nd
April to 30th
May 2014.
Results: at the end of every activity, the findings were documented and the report tabled to the
review team. The results are as outlined in this document.
Conclusions: Finlays is one of the companies where occupational safety and health is part and
parcel of each individual in day to day activities. Health and safety is a priority of the company
in realization of the target goals and business profitability.finlays is a good example in
management of health for all and takes responsibility in welfare of the employees. Health of both
the workers and their families is well catered for within the company.
Recommendations: I recommend that Finlays maintain and or improve on its health
management in order to realize total health of workers in their total environment.

5. LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
ARD……………………………..Applied Research Department
CHSMS………………………….Corporate Health and Safety Management System
DOSH……………………………Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health
HAZOP………………………….Hazard Operability analysis
HS………………………………..Health and Safety
JFK………………………………James Finlay Kenya
KEWASCO……………………..Kericho Water and Sanitation Company
KRA……………………………..Kenya Revenue Authority
NHIF…………………………….National Health Insurance Fund
NSSF…………………………….National Social Security Fund
OH……………………………….Occupational Health
OSHA……………………………Occupational Safety and Health Act
PPEs……………………………..Personal Protective Equipment
PFU………………………………Plague Forming Unit
SWIFT…………………………..Structural What If Technique
SOPS…………………………….Standard Operating Procedures
SPH………………………………School of Public Health
WIBA……………………….Work Injury and Benefits Act

6. 1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background information and situational analysis
Finlays places the highest priority on ensuring that its facilities are safe for the employees and all
those who may visit the company’s sites. They see this not only as a legal and humanitarian
responsibility but as key to ensuring business operations efficiency.
Finlays corporate health and safety management system (CHSMS) is a structured approach to
achieving our health and safety (HS) objectives and managing the HS risks associated with their
business.
The CHSMS provides a broad set of expectations integrated into 18 elements of accountability.
This framework is intented to help individual business units to focus on consistent standard,
allocate resources, and set direction for HS activities and consistent deliver improving HS
performance.
1.2 Vision of the department
A healthy worker in a safe working environment
1.3 Mission
Their primary responsibility is to promote a safe and healthy work place by implementing
effective systems to prevent occupational diseases and accidents, ill health, and damage to the
property in order to reduce the cost of production and improve productivity.
1.4 Key Principles
 A strong visible leadership and a commitment to health and safety performance
throughout the management structure.
 A comprehensive health and safety framework that is legally compliant, uses recognized
best practice and strives for zero accidents
 All our workforce and contractors will be trained in relevant health and safety issues.
 A culture will be fostered where people are committed to achieving a safe working
environment.
 Critical plant processes and equipment will be improved /maintained to required
standards and best available practice and remain safe.
 Continuous examination of our health and safety performance to set a forward path of
improvement

7. 1.5 Objectives
 Set, monitor and review realistic objectives/targets for continuous improvement.
 Monitor/audit and report on health and safety performance and regularly maintain and
improve its existing management system and where necessary update this policy and any
relevant procedures.
 Improve the health and safety awareness of our workforce across the business, through
regular supervision, training, consultation and communication. Enlist the support of all
personnel in developing solutions to eliminate unsafe acts and conditions.
 Provide adequate control of any health and safety risks arising out of workplace
activities.
 Enforce local health and safety rules by whatever means appropriate.
 Ensure those who undertake work on our behalf behave in a responsible manner,
maintaining sound health and safety practices.
 Ensure that all plant and equipment that impacts on health and safety is regularly
maintained to meet company and legislative requirements.
Finlays requires the full and active participation of all its employees in order that the principles
outlined in this policy statement may be achieved. The statutory duties placed on the company
and all their employees and providers of services are to be regarded as minimum standards. The
company aims to achieve best practice in terms of health and safety issues in all its operations.
1.6 Organogram
Senior management Manager/assistant manager
Secretary
Junior management Teams 1-8(harvesting, felling, h/safety, inventory, maintenance,
Finance, saw mill)
Other committee Felling, winching, drivers, and power saw operator’s camp
Committee, Union representatives, garage, security, sawmill
Subsection Logging staff, villagers, contractors, visitors, sawmill staff, general
workforce
In line with this Organogram;
 Organisation and structure was documented and communicated
 Roles and responsibilities were documented and understood by employees
 The business unit had people nominated with local authority to implement the HS
management system

8.  HS managers had a reporting function directly to the Group Hs committee
 HS managers had local authority to stop work activities in the event of imminent danger
1.7 Background information of the study area
JFK Company is located partially in Kericho and partially in Bomet counties, Kenya. It is
the leading tea producing company in Kenya. Finlays is located in a high altitude highland
experiencing heavy rains (1400mm-2000mm p.a) throughout the year with a cool and wet
climate and with temperature range of 16-200
C.
The elective choice of this company was objectively to understand the nature of work of this
company, putting into a holistic approach the work itself, the worker, the environment of work
and the agents that affect work.
These agents include physical, chemical, biological and psychosocial factors in the workplace in
order to identify the health hazards, risks and the resultant injuries that the workers in this
factory are exposed to and to make necessary recommendations as to how the same can be
improved.
The elective attachment was done in the forestry department IEHS section. This is as a result of the
forestry undertaking being the most dangerous
1.8 Steps Involved in undertaking forestry
The process of carrying out forestry is a multistep and a multistage one.
Stage 1: land preparation
Step1: land clearing
Step2: cultivation
Step3: ripping out
Stage 2: holing (drilling of holes)
Stage 3: seedling sourcing from ARD nursery
Stage 4: planting
Stage 5: management/silvi-cultural practices
Step1: survival count
Step2: infilling
Step3: weeding

9. Step4: pruning
Stage 6: harvesting at maturity; 5-9 yrs
Stage 7: transit to the processing plant
Stage 8: treatment
Stage 9: processing
Stage 10: marketing
However, the workers are exposed to different hazards and risks at each step and every stage.
1.9 Health and safety policy of the company
It is company policy to monitor health of all workers and this may include mandatory periodical
sampling of blood and mandatory entry and exit medical examinations. Every employee is under
strict obligation to exercise due diligence while performing company duties to avoid accidents.
They were issued with full protective clothing as outlined in the occupational safety and health
act 2007 and they signed the protective clothing issue book acknowledging receipt. They were
bound to report any occupational injury suffered by them within the work place to their
immediate supervisor who authorize treatment at the dispensary.

10. 2.0 OBJECTIVES
2.1 Broad objectives
1. To acquire knowledge, experience and apply practical skills through observation and
participation in the field.
2. To get exposure to challenges faced in environmental health field and the entire job.
2.2 Specific objectives
1. To identify various occupational problems within Finlays forestry department
2. To participate in problem solving and response to various worksites environmental issues
deleterious to health.
3. To gain experience in management of occupational health and safety within working
stations.
4. To participate and gain experience in risk assessment and review provision in worksites
2.3 Methodology
Learning information was achieved through;
 Direct Observations
 Meetings attendance
 Participating in field activities
 Discussions head of department
 Participation in day to day activities
 Consultation

11. 2.4 Key informants
 Health and safety officer ,forestry department
 Manager ,forestry department
 Members of forestry department staff
 Supervisors at various worksites

12. 3.0 FIELD ACTIVITIES AND OBSERVATIONS
3.1 Saw doctoring workshop
Conditions and recommendations
 The fire place was openly exposed-enclose the fire place to reduce risk of wind blow
 The operation space was inadequate-relocate this workshop to a spacious ground
 Ventilation was adequate-maintain high ventilation level
 There were oil spillages in the sharpening and compressors sites-contain the spillages
and avoid Unnecessary leakages
 The floor needs renovation-repair and provide for drains/rills
 Compressors and gas cylinders were stored inside this room-find a safe storage room and
a cylinder cabinet
 Saw dust from the production line comes in to this section-screen production line section
or construct a permanent wall to separate the two sections
3.2 Flammable liquids store
 The door not safely labeled-it should be labeled ‘RESTRICTED’

13.  Inadequate level of ventilation was observed-provide for more ventilation.
 Wood poles piled around the store was risky to fire-relocate the wood piles
 The storage room was not permanently constructed-a permanent storage structure was
recommended.
 The store was not enclosed-fencing of the store coverage was recommended.
3.3 Offloading area
 The poles were piled randomly to a height that’s unsafe-proper piling system should be
adopted.
 The offloading floor was muddy and slippery-removal of mud and roofing provision for
the entire area of coverage was recommended
3.4 Tanalith chemical store
 The store was not enclosed-total enclosure by establishment of a fence.
 The front of the store was not well paved-improve on the pave and provide bunds in case
of the spillages and action of the storm water.
 There was easy access of unauthorized persons to the outside of the store-restrict access
through fencing.
Other chemicals stored and used within the forestry department include; petrol, oil,
alcatreat, polytreat and DM-4-1.

14. 3.5 Lucas sawmill
It’s a manually operated machine fit for mobile operations especially to inaccessible areas
in the forests and where the log is too large for loading.
 Oil spillages were observed in the area of operation-avoid unnecessary leakages and
spillages/maintain the machine regularly.
 The operation was conducted in an open area prone to hot sun and rain-provide a
shelter/cover.
 The floor in the area of operation was not suitable-improve on the floor of operation
within the sawmill.
 The machine was not well guarded risky to injuries-provide guarding to the machine
 Exhaust gases from the machine may affect the operators’ health-shift-work schedule and
medical surveillance of the operators should be conducted.
3.6 Tanalith treatment section
 The method of treatment was risky to falling off of the poles-adopt a safer treatment
technique
 The chemical was exposed-raising walls of the containment was favourable and
enclosing the treatment section to reduce access.
 There was a risk of overflow of the chemical from the containment-construction of the
bunds was recommended action.
 Risk of chemical poisoning-proper use of the correct PPEs and job rotation was
recommended in order to reduce the time of exposure.

15.  The overflow during the mixing of chemical to required concentration causes spill-
standard operating procedures should be followed during mixing process, clear
instruction on the use of the PPEs as well as medical surveillance necessary.
3.7 Driller
 Drilling is a noisy operation-proper use of the PPEs was recommended
 Dust accumulation a nuisance-regular collection and disposal of the dust required
3.8 Cross cutter
 Noisy operation –earmuffs should be used properly
 Unguarded machine needs to be guarded.
3.9 Breakdown machine
The following conditions were observed:
 Very fine saw dust were being produced-provide clear goggles and respirators to the
machine operators.
 The operation was very noisy-enforce the use of the PPEs; earmuffs
 The mud from the loading area was encroaching-remove the mud and extend the roof to
cover the break down machine loading area too

16.  The sawdust piling around the operation area should be regularly collected for storage
and preferably recycling.
 The entire operation area needs to be enclosed by fencing or screening to avoid the
spread of the dust to other sections.
 The machine was well guarded-maintain and repair the guards when worn out.
3.10 Splitting room
 The floor is not in good condition-renovate the floor to enhance easy cleaning
 Rollers/conveyor needs to be protected from direct contact to the persons to avoid
possible accidents and incidents, guarding is also required.
 Removal of the piling saw dust underneath the cutting edges is unsafe-wooden boxes can
be placed under the machine and removed when full for emptying can be an alternative.
 The use of PPEs in this section was noted to be less complied than expected-the
supervisors should enforce the use of the PPEs to foster safety in work.
 Some of the operations here were dusty thus needs proper screening and compliance to
the use of the PPEs.
3.11 Boiler section
 High prevail in this section-adopt a job rotation work schedule to minimize the exposure.

17. 3.12 General recommendations for the entire saw mill were as follows:
i. Tanalith is a class one chemical poison therefore a complete substitution with a more safe
chemical is the best option.
ii. Emergency showers and eyewash facilities have to be provided to help in case of the
chemicals splashing into the eyes and or any other body parts.
iii. The entire area of coverage needs to be roofed to make it suitable for the operations
iv. Storm water diversion from flowing into the saw mill operation area is a necessity
v. Consider relocating the saw mill to a more spacious location or extending its area of
coverage
vi. Meanwhile as the entire area of coverage awaits upgrading, the mud that is gradually
increasing should be removed
vii. Training is called for on the medical importance of the Tanalith chemical and on the use
of the fire extinguishers as well as the importance of using the PPEs always.
viii. Some of the fire extinguishers were found to have surpassed the scheduled date of
inspection; regular equipment inspection should be therefore conducted.
ix. The entire saw mill area of coverage needs enclosure/fencing.

18. 3.13 Forest field assessment for safety
Field assessment for safety was done in the forest field no.G.22 of Tiluet Estate. The
following were the findings:
 Hung ups-NIL
 Wind falls-Present resulting from the copies trees
 Access rate-low
 Pit/holes- the holes in the planted forest results from the action of the animals such as the
aardvarks.
 Erosion-the rate of soil erosion was low and the drains were also available resulting from
the fact that the entire area is covered by undergrowths and fallen leaves.
 Insects-no major insects of medical importance were noted in this section, those found
included beetles
 Snakes-NIL
 Slashing was well done
3.14 Recommendations to the management
 The forest should be well guarded from access by unauthorized persons especially those
collecting firewood since they access the forest without appropriate protective equipment
and the field is full of copies trees which are risky to windfalls.

19. 3.15 Saosa timber yard
This timber yard is used for storage of the firewood for use in the factories for the processing
of tea. The following conditions were noted:
 The use of helmets and gloves in invisible areas war non-compliant –enforce the use of
the PPEs
 The area of operation was found to be muddy causing tractors to slide-roof the area or
remove mud periodically
 Pellets piling was risky to falls-proper arrangement required
 Loading operation was found to be unsafe-proper use of PPEs
 Falling of logs during transit-do not exceed carrying capacity of the tractor
 Water drums in the stacking areas were empty-fill the drums with water always
 Solid wastes were accumulating in working areas-solid waste management should be
done especially in the paths between the stacks
 The workers need to be trained on the operation of the fire extinguishers and water
hydrants
 There were oil spillages from tipping machines and empty oil containers were found
dumped in the operation area-contain the spillages, avoid unnecessary leakages and
collect all the empty containers for disposal.
 Polyethene and milk papers were increasingly getting scattered within and between the
stacking and splitting areas-provide waste collecting bins within the area of operation to
ease waste management.

20.  The three wheeled loader was noisy and risky to tip over.-standard operating procedures
should be followed by the operators.
3.16 Personal protective equipment
In addition to the above, properly maintained and adequately stocked health clinic,
first aid rooms and first aid boxes and ambulances as well as trained first aid
personnel from certified institutions were available in all worksites.
Non-compliance to PPEs proper use of PPEs proper use of PPEs
3.17 Training activities
Trainings for both the management staff and the employees were done on various aspects of
occupational safety and health and the records were kept in terms of frequency, contact hours,
depth, specialized areas of training, number trained, trainee occupations gender and the name of
training institution.
the training activities also were extended to newly employed persons, members of health and
safety committee,contractors,suppliers visitors,neighbouring communities,specific target groups as
well as well as any other persons in need within the company fraternity.
Each unit established processes for ensuring personnel and all stakeholders had an understanding
of health and safety to a level required by the role. The competence requirements were based on
awareness, experience and knowledge, skills.
Each unit examined the competencies required for all roles and put together a matrix of
requirements for each job role. Each employee competence was compared to determine the gaps
against their requirements.
Correct training course, competent trainers, up to date record, proper training planning and
objectivity were all employed to achieve sufficient training required.

21. 3.18 Health education and message dissemination activities
The company established a framework of health and safety communication and consultation both
internally and externally .HS committee was formed for consultation.
A range of different routes of internal communication was established to disseminate and collect
information through the form of information boards, team meetings, and briefings.
Formal routes of communication e.g. tool box talks, team briefings, were set into annual
programmes and annual information campaigns were devised and rolled out in a structured
programme.
3.19 Occupational health conditions
Reports of ill health while at work, sickness absence and occupational diseases in terms of
occupation work station, causation age and gender were filed and medical care provided for the
workers. Physician was sourced annually to advice on occupational health requirements.
Groups of people requiring periodic screening were identified and set in a programme. Groups of
staff that require health surveillance were identified.
On occasions persons were referred to the occupational health department or external medical
specialist.
In the case of injury and ill-health, rehabilitation and return to normal working will be assisted by
occupational health services.
3.20 Health facilities and referral systems
Dispensaries are provided for in every estate to help attend to the illnesses of the employees, where
more medical attention is required, patients are referred to central hospital and follow up is strictly
conducted.
3.21 Housing and Sanitation
The employees are provided with houses to live at no charge. Their houses are properly maintained
through a planned programme and course of action established. It is the duty of every house
occupier to keep the house and the immediate surrounding clean and free from dirt/pollutants.

22. 3.22 Pollution control
3.22.1 Air pollution
Indoor air pollution is a major problem in Kericho County. This is because the area is
predominantly rural thus the primary source of fuel is Biomass fuel comprising wood, charcoal,
plant residue. Burning of the biomass fuel for heating and cooking produced immense smoke
which is responsible for Indoor air pollution.
Outdoor air pollution is negligible in the company as most industries rely on electricity as a power
source. However, the wood used in the factories for steam preparation contributes a larger
proportion in air pollution. The refuge is that the company has large coverage with forested areas
which act as smoke sinks that absorb carbon dioxide hence purifying the air. In addition the
company borders the Mau forest thus an excessive carbon emissions are readily absorbed by the
trees.
3.23 Water supply and quality control
3.23.1Rivers
River originating from Mau provide raw water for treatment.
Water undergoes treatment by a series of stages to ensure it is portable and safe for drinking.
Adequate water is supplied to the employees’ houses through a network of pipes and delivered
through a tap system.
After treatment samples are tested for coliform tests are to estimate the microbes quality. The
Membrane filter technique is used to ascertain the bacteriological quality of the water at the
treatment plant.
The water samples are also subjected to plague forming unit (PFU) test for virological quality of
the water.
Residual chlorine test is carried out finally to ensure safety of the water supplied to the residents in
the living camps.

23. 3.23.2 The flow chart below summarizes the water treatment process at the plant and some
of the results of water tested.
Water Treatment process at the Saosa water treatment plant
Sludge
Impoundment from
source
Screening
Aeration
Colour- removal
Softening
Sedimentation
Filtration
Coagulation
Disinfection
Distribution
Storage
Disposal

27. 3.24 Environment conservation
Since Finlays is an agricultural based company, conservation and preservation of the environment
was given a priority. Many trees of different species are planted. The forests are guarded from
encroachment through illegal felling or access by unauthorized persons. Whenever a planted forest
reaches its maturity and thus felled, another field was identified and planted to replace the later.
Soil erosion is prevented and controlled using various techniques including cover planting and
construction of soil erosion control structures. The grass in inhabited areas is cut to acceptable
levels thus keeping the entire environment clean with a commendable aesthetic value. Water
sources are protected from adverse acts that could lead to their depletion.
3.25 Solid waste management
Solid waste management is well managed in the company owing to an implemented policy on
waste collection. Every living camp has several waste collection points which are well constructed
to prevent bad weather from interfering with the management.polyethene is used to cover the built
collection points and the wastes are collected bi-weekly.kerbsite system of waste collection is used
in the company whereby a tractor –drawn trailer is loaded with wastes from the kerbsite and
transported to well managed dumpsite for processing and disposal. Every household is vested with
a responsibility to collect wastes from their houses and place them in the collection point in a
correct manner. However, no polyethene bags are provided for collection at the house hence each
occupier is expected to use their own method of storage at the house.
3.26 Liquid waste management
Both onsite and offsite conservancy systems are used in the company.
3.26.1Onsite sanitation
Ventilated improved pit and Simple pit latrines were the most common types in the. They were
regularly cleaned and maintained.

28. 3.26.2 Offsite sanitation
Septic tanks as method of liquid waste management were used where onsite sanitation technique
could not be achievable. The septic tanks when full were emptied into an exhauster for transit to
KEWASCO for further treatment.
3.27 Ergonomics and heavy physical work
Correct posture and safe height for working on a computer
The workers are ensured of safe systems of work, posture and the working height as part of many
other activities on ergonomics. Indication of the machines, tools equipment, processes of operations
requiring redesigning was done to ensure the worker’s safety, health and comfort was provided. In
addition to this, recommendation on redesigning of workstations, workrooms was done with reference to
requirements of the act, its subsidiary legislation and relevant codes of practice.
Loader lifting logs into transit vehicle
Heavy physical work is reduced through the use of machines for loading and offloading wood logs
as well as tipping machine systems.

29. 3.28 Welfare facilities
Welfare facilities provided included the following:
 First aid boxes
 Washing facilities
 Cloack rooms
 Sitting facilities
 Rest rooms
 Drinking water
 Crèches
 Sanitary convenience
The maintenance procedures for these facilities are provided for in a documented fomat.
Suitable sufficient and separate sanitary conveniences were provided for both male and female in
the workplace.
Recommendation for improvement of welfare facilities in work places were given with
references to the requirement of the Act, its subsidiary legislation and relevant codes of practice.
3.29 Occupational noise
Specific machines and or processes that produce excessive noise that interferes with speech in
each workstation or workroom included power saws, loaders, sawmill machines among others.
Measures were taken to protect persons working at or near machines or processes producing
excessive noise levels.
Hearing tests were carried out on persons working in noisy areas and warning signs had been
posted in areas with excessive noise
Personal protective equipment (earmuffs) were issued for any noisy operation or tasks.
Where non-compliance was noted, recommendations were given for improvement on reduction
of noise to acceptable levels at workplaces as required by the act.

30. 3.30 Fire Safety, signage and symbols
Fire drills are conducted within a scheduled programme and records are kept in terms of
frequency, organization and time of the day done. Fire safety signs and the course of action were
readily available at all work places.
Where wood stacks and piles were kept, water hydrants and large drums were provided to
minimize the risk of fire spread and property destruction in case of fire outbreak. Fire
extinguishers were provided in various workplaces and at least an alarm for emergencies was
installed.
Every working structure had emergency exits provided and kept lock free all the time, suitably
marked, accessible and properly maintained. The types of materials used for construction of the
buildings were specified. Adequate water was provided in all workstations for fire safety as well as
other uses.
Where non-compliance was noticed, recommendations were given to the management for
corrective action to be implemented.
Clear passages were provided for stacking areas for emergency purposes.

31. 3.31 Medical examinations and surveillance and insurance cover
Medical examinations are done in workplaces during pre-employment, periodical, redeployment,
post-employment, fitness after sick leave to ascertain the health status of the employees.
Recommendations were made and action taken according to the medical examinations that were
carried out. In addition to this, counseling, health education, hearing conservation and
rehabilitations were done. Every employee is required to provide NHIF pin number and NSSF
membership number before commencing to the job tasks. A certificate of good conduct and a copy
of identity card as well as KRA pin number is also a requirement.
3.32 Contractor’s appraisals
There was a written agreement between Finlays and every contractor regarding compliance with
the safety and health policy at workplace .every contractor had to provide a written safety and
health policy.
The health and safety department had the jurisdiction to appraise every contractor from time to
time to ensure high level of compliance to the corporate requirements.
3.33 Administrative controls
Peaceful coexistence and goal oriented objectivity is a core value fostered by the management
through enforcing of legal regulations and the aspect of motivation to living together as a family of
Finlays company.
Every employee is expected to work for a maximum of 8hours a day and they are transported to
their workplaces in cases where the work stations are far away from the living camps; a field
service vehicle is provided for this purpose.

32. 3.34 Risk assessments
Risk assessment procedures were established and maintained and all the activities requiring risk
assessment for each unit were identified; from these activities;
i. Hazards and likelihood for the task were identified
ii. Types of risk assessment required were defined
iii. Legal and other requirements were considered
iv. Risks were the assessed
v. Control measures to eliminate or reduce the risks were then identified
A standard control hierarchy was applied as follows:
i. Elimination of the risk
ii. Risk reduction/substitution
iii. Isolation form/engineering controls
iv. Control of risk through safe working practices/administrative controls
v. Personal protective equipment as a last resort to mange residual risks
An action plan was established and implemented were assessments identified the requirement for
an additional control.
Each activity was monitored to ensure that all controls specified on any risk assessment are in
place before the work starts and remain in place for the duration of the work
All risk assessments were recorded and filed as part of unit risk register which could be used to
establish review and reassessment.
All risk assessment were to be reviewed at least annually or more frequently where residual risk
remains high
Risk assessments were reviewed:
i. If the activity changed to any significant extend e.g. new equipment
ii. If an accident or incident (near miss) occurred
iii. If new information came to light about the nature of the hazard or risk
iv. Health surveillance or cases of ill-health indicated the assessment was not valid
v. If legal standards changed
In addition, risks assessor must be competent and all assessments had to be documented
Every worksite and operations are continually assessed through a detailed risk assessment process.
The most commonly used techniques were as described below:

33. An overloaded lorry posing a risk of log falling off during transit
SWIFT (Structural What If Technique) the form below was filled:
SWIFT FORM
Stage What if? Cause Consequences Controls Actions
I. HAZOP(Hazard Operability analysis).presented in form of a table
HAZOP FORM
Plant
Node point
Intention
Deviation Possible
causes
Consequences Existing
precautions
Action
required
Actioned

34. 3.35 Accident and incidents
Accidents and incidents were investigated and the report and records were analyzed in terms of
occupation, age sex ,causation ,time of accident ,whether fatal or non-fatal and the action taken.
Compensation as per WIBA 2007 was complied with.
in addition ,every dangerous occurrence was were given as specified in the seventh schedule
under the act and a brief of the circumstances leading to the occurrence and the duration of work
stoppage for each occurrence were provided.
every accident victim follows scheduled protocol and procedures before being compensated as
required by the WIBA 2007.they are required to fill complete forms of Directorate of
Occupational Safety and Health services(DOSH) as one of the requirements and thereafter receives
compensation as ascertained by ministry of labour owing to the approved level of incapacitation of
the employee.
In order to avoid occurrence of accidents and incidents every employee is required to follow SOPs
while undertaking any given task.
The personnel selected for Accident/incident investigation should be trained, competent in
investigation and investigate in accordance with corporate procedure
Accidents /incidents were reported regardless of level of severity

35. 3.36 Emergency planning and Response
Emergency management plans were devised and maintained for all facilities and location. These
plans identify the personnel, equipment, and training necessary to protect the workforce,
contractors, visitors, public and Finlay’s business reputation in the event of an accident.
Plans for each credible emergency situation identify:
i. The major risks and impacts associated with the emergency situation
ii. The response strategy and actions to be under taken by the people involved in the incident
and its management
iii. The management structure, personnel requirements ,roles and responsibilities
iv. Equipment requirements with locations ,quantities and provisions for maintenance
v. Communication methods
vi. Escalation strategies including the notification to the group HS committee
The emergency response for each facility was documented and published to instruct different
roles.
All the key staff was trained in the emergency procedures and their roles as well as their
procedures
Emergency drills and practices were undertaken to appropriate the level and type of risk
All equipment were inspected and maintained in accordance with the suppliers
recommendation
In the event of an emergency, normal activities are disrupted depending on the impact of the
emergency.
Escape and evacuation procedures for disabled were readily set in place.

36. 4.0 DISCUSSIONS
4.1 Health and Safety audit
It’s a requirement under the factories and other places of work act (safety and health committees)
rules 2004 of legal notice number 31 that the occupier of every factory, or work place, shall cause
health and safety audit of the workplace to be carried out at least once in every period of twelve
months by a registered health and safety audits.
It’s with this regard that the forestry health and safety department undertakes the following:
 Health and safety rules and regulations are strictly enforced by the team leaders
 In-house training for all the forestry staff and contractors are done through a scheduled
programme
 Where need be ,the management look in the market for a more viable, modern and safer
machines for replacing the current ones
 Upgrading of guards on machines is undertaken by the engineering department under the
quest by the health and safety department.
 Stacking points of wood are adequately fitted with water hydrants, fire extinguishers and
water drums in readiness for firefighting in case it breaks out.
 Thorough risk assessment of a machine is done during commissioning and thereafter
quarterly done.
 Only registered chemicals are used and relevant information on handling, storage and
first aid are up-to date.
 Continuous liaison with local emergency services regarding chemical safety procedures is
undertaken.

37.  Lock-up storage areas for chemical and used containers are provided then neutralized
and disposed off appropriately
 Every spillage is reported and saw dust is an available absorbent material for soaking up
minor spillages.
 A stock book for all chemicals received is provided to provide accuracy.
 Chemicals for treating wood are re-used to minimize waste produced
 Storm water is diverted away from treatment plants to reduce dilution of chemical
preservative and pollution of water bodies.
 Chemical safety programme was introduced to create awareness to the people involved to
avoid adverse effects of the dangerous chemical preservatives
 Waste water is recirculated for preparation of working solutions
 Collection and recovery tank is available for collection of waste water from
dripping area.
 Gloves, protective clothing and safety boots and respirators are used to prevent direct
contact of the chemical with body
 PPEs are kept in good working conditions
 A complete first aid kit is available at every place of work

38. 4.2 Finlays corporate health and safety management audit
The audit is conducted through a set of preset questions which are shown in the main body. The
auditors gather and review documented evidence on which judgments are made. After gathering
evidence the answer to the set questions is rated against the expectations of the Finlays corporate
health and safety management system.
Ratings for individual questions are totaled to give a topic achievement percentage .the topic
results are collated to give an overall achievement level for the audit.
Where an audit question is not considered to apply the answer is marked N/A (not applicable) and
the maximum possible score for the element is adjusted accordingly.
The ratings are intended to set a baseline against which future improvements can be measured.
Achievement can be compared for one department against other departments for sharing of good
practice. The ratings of all departments form the achievement for the business overall.
Ratings table
Ratings 0 1 2 3 4
achievement 0-20% 21-40% 41-60% 61-80% 81-100%
Performance
judgement
Serious
deficiencies
for remedial
action
major
improvements
to be
implemented
Meets basic
requirement;
some
significant
improvements
required
Exceeds basic
requirement;
minor
requirements
required
Best
practices
are being
applied
Recommended
action
timescale
Immediate
to next 3
months
Within next 6
months
Within next 6-
9 months
Continue
ongoing
improvement
plants over
next year
Continue
ongoing
plans
Thereafter the overall score is given. The action plan is derived from the recommendations
The CHSMS is driven into the business from the top management. Then all management is trained
on their roles in CHSMS.

39. The board appointee is nominated.
All the senior managers are required to attend the safety meetings and to undertake safety tours,
inspections and discuss health and safety openly with employees at all levels
All managers are involved in local/departmental safety meetings, set objectives, allocate resources
and monitor the achievements.
Every job description includes HS responsibilities and accountabilities and included in appraisals
Every work site has inventory of risk assessments containing all activities of the site. All the
operators are involved in the risk assessment which is done quarterly using documented skills
matrix then gap analysis is established for training to be instituted.HS induction training for all
new or relocated staff is done.
The competence and effectiveness of the trainers (internal and external) is assessed by human
resource department.
A health referral system is in place and the professionals are available
All occupational health accidents and incidents are reported and investigated by the competent
personnel. Health promotion activities are delivered by the department.
Emergency plans are devised, published and clearly communicated to everyone involved. Drills
and practice exercises are conducted with lessons learnt incorporated in revisions and
improvements.non-compliance is not tolerated at all in the company.

40. 4.3 CHSMS Description
OHs policy
Planning
Implementation and operation
Checking and corrective actions
Management review
Continual improvement
This defines the minimum standards for managing OHS (OSHA – Occupational Safety and Health
Act CAP 15 2007) affairs of the group.the 18 elements describe
 The minimum expectations of a business unit.
 Guidance on process to achieve the expectation.
 Performance indicators for judgement of conformance with expectation
 Proforma forms and records to help document the implementation
4.4 Limitations
-Bad weather

41. 5.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1 Conclusion
Finlays is one of the companies where occupational safety and health is part and parcel of each
individual in day to day activities. Health and safety is a priority of the company in realization of
the target goals and business profitability. Physical mental and social well being of the workers is
catered for. The OH service is not curative alone but also embraces the aspect of prevention of
which is well represented in Finlays .Finlays is a good example in management of health for all
and takes responsibility in welfare of the employees. Health of both the workers and their
families is well catered for within the company.

42. 5.2 Recommendations
1. I recommend that Finlays maintain and or improve on its health management in order to
realize total health of workers in their total environment.
2. Tanalith chemical usage should receive immense attention in terms of substitution with a
safer chemical with equal or even more returns.
3. Refresher training should be conducted to workers on fire and risks elusion especially
those in the saw mill and Saosa kuni-shed
4. The company should consider allocating more resources to health and safety department
so as to enable the department to explicitly achieve its desired goal oriented objectives.
5. SPH should consider increasing the length of electives period to enable students gain
more exhaustive experience in environmental health practices.

43. APPENDIX I: Map of Kericho County

44. APPENDIX II: Map of Kericho District