PPE in Zambia: What Employers Must Provide and How to Buy It

On a construction site, in a mine, a warehouse or a workshop, personal protective equipment (PPE) is often the last thing standing between a worker and a serious injury. In Zambia it is also a legal duty. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act No. 36 of 2010, employers must provide suitable protective clothing and equipment to workers exposed to a risk of injury - free of charge - together with instructions on how to use it.

With the Ministry of Labour stepping up workplace inspections this year, it is a good time to check that your site measures up.

What the law expects from employers

• Provide appropriate PPE to every worker exposed to a risk of bodily injury.
• Do not charge workers for it - protective equipment is provided free.
• Explain how to use it, and make sure it is worn throughout working hours where required.
• Keep the workplace safe so far as is reasonably practicable, including safe equipment and systems of work, first aid, clean drinking water and proper eating and resting areas.

PPE does not replace a safe workplace. It works alongside guarding machinery, safe procedures and training.

Matching PPE to the job

Start with the hazards on your site, then choose equipment for each one:

• Head: hard hats wherever there is a risk of falling objects or knocks.
• Eyes and face: safety glasses or goggles for grinding, cutting, chemicals and dust; face shields for splashes.
• Hands: gloves suited to the hazard - cut-resistant, chemical-resistant or heat-resistant are not interchangeable.
• Feet: safety boots with toe protection and the right sole for the ground.
• Visibility: high-visibility vests near vehicles, roads and moving machinery.
• Hearing and breathing: ear protection in noisy areas and the right respirator for dust, fumes or chemicals.
• Height: harnesses and lanyards for work at height.

Buying PPE that actually protects

• Buy to a standard, not a price. Ask suppliers which safety standard the item meets and keep the documentation.
• Get the sizes right. Ill-fitting PPE gets taken off. Order a realistic spread of sizes.
• Plan for replacement. Gloves, masks and filters are consumables. Agree a stock level and reorder before you run out.
• Keep records of what was issued to whom. They show inspectors you have met your duty.
• Buy for comfort in our climate. Breathable materials get worn; hot, heavy kit gets left in the store.

How Rayema Enterprise helps

Our Industrial Supplies & Equipment service supplies PPE and safety equipment for construction, mining, manufacturing and logistics sites:

• Sourcing hard hats, boots, gloves, eye and hearing protection, hi-vis wear and fall-protection equipment.
• Bulk orders and scheduled resupply so you never run short.
• Industrial machinery and construction materials for your projects.
• Importing specialised equipment through our Clearing & Forwarding team.

Frequently asked questions

Can I deduct the cost of PPE from workers' wages?

No. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, protective equipment is provided free of charge to workers who need it.

Which law covers PPE in Zambia?

The Occupational Health and Safety Act No. 36 of 2010 sets out employers' duties, including providing suitable protective clothing and equipment and instructions on its use.

How often should PPE be replaced?

It depends on the item and how hard it is used. Replace anything damaged, worn or past the manufacturer's recommended life, and treat items like filters and disposable gloves as consumables.

Can you supply PPE in bulk for a large site?

Yes. We handle bulk orders and scheduled resupply for sites of all sizes.

Need PPE or equipment for your site? Request a quote or WhatsApp us on +260 770 578 280.