Safety Helmets in Kenya: Comparing EVO2, EVO3, EVO5 and Full-Brim Options
A safety helmet isn’t a single product at SHL. It’s a range, and the differences between models aren’t cosmetic. Harness type, shell material, ventilation and certification all vary, and picking the wrong one for the job means either overspending or underprotecting.
In short: SHL stocks safety helmets from entry-level slip-ratchet models to full-brim, electrically-insulated options. These are certified to EN397, and our Kenyan-made options are rated to KS 06-963. The right helmet depends on the hazard (impact only, or impact plus electrical risk), the environment (vented for heat, full-brim for sun and rain), and how the harness adjusts.
Entry-level: EVO2 slip ratchet
Our Our AC-PRO Safety Helmet Wheel Ratchet (101-SH682) from our own Protecta range, pairs a super strong HDPE shell with a four-point textile suspension, an extra comfort cushion and an easy-o-use wheel ratchet. It is ventilated for comfort in tropical heat and long shifts, comes with a chin strap and sweatband, and has universal slots that accept all accessories.
Our Safety Helmet HDPE Vented (101-FP2) by Fundipro is made right here in Kenya as part of the Buy Kenya, Build Kenya initiative. It’s a heavy-duty vented HDPE helmet with universal slots and a six-point polyslip harness, supplied with a sweatband and chin strap, and rated to Kenyan standard KS 06-963. Choosing it keeps your spend in the local economy and supports Kenyan manufacturing jobs.
Mid-range: EVO2 and EVO3
Our EVO2 Safety Helmet Slip Ratchet (101-AJF030) uses a traditional 6-point polyethylene harness with a OneTouch slip ratchet, in vented or non-vented versions, conforming to EN397. It’s the most economical top-level protection in the range, and comes in the widest colour choice: Blue, Green, Grey, Orange, Red, White, Yellow, Pink and Black.
Our EVO3 Safety Helmet Wheel Ratchet Vented (101-AJF170, also available as 101-AJF170D) is the Comfort Plus model. It combines a tough HDPE shell, without a rain gutter, with the Evolution 3D-Adjustment six-point terylene harness for all-day comfort across the widest range of environments. It’s vented, conforms to EN397, and has optional retractable eye protection and other accessories.
SPECIALIST HELMETS
– Electrical insulation: EVO5 and Class E
Our EVO5 Class E Safety Helmet (101-AKE170) combines a super-strong ABS shell with the Evolution 3D-Adjustment harness, conforming to both EN397 and ANSI standards, for work where electrical insulation matters alongside impact protection.
– Full-brim: sun, rain and extra coverage
Our EVO 6100 Full Brim Safety Helmet is available in two versions, both on the Evolution six-point terylene harness with wheel ratchets:
- Vented (101-AJQ170): EN397 and EN50365.
- Non-vented (101-AJP170): EN397 and EN50365, and it also meets optional Class E electrical insulation requirements.
The full brim adds coverage against sun and rain that a standard peaked shell doesn’t give.
– Specialist: work at height and rescue
Our Work at Height and Rescue Helmet (101-VERTEX) is built for a different risk profile entirely — a strong chinstrap, adjustable ventilation shutters and a six-point textile suspension with a CenterFit adjustment system that keeps the helmet centred during movement, in White or Orange.
Frequently asked questions
What standard do SHL’s safety helmets conform to?
EN397 across the range, with some models (EVO5, EVO 6100) also meeting ANSI or EN50365 for additional electrical insulation.
Which helmet suits work near live electrical equipment?
The EVO5 Class E (101-AKE170) or the non-vented EVO 6100 (101-AJP170), both built to meet Class E electrical insulation requirements alongside EN397.
What’s the difference between slip ratchet and wheel ratchet adjustment?
A slip ratchet (EVO2) adjusts with a simple pull-through action; a wheel ratchet (EVO3, AC-PRO, EVO 6100) turns a dial for finer, more precise headband adjustment.
Why choose a full-brim helmet over a standard peaked one?
A full brim (EVO 6100) covers the whole head circumference, giving extra protection from sun and rain compared with a standard peaked shell.
See our guides to bump caps vs safety helmets, helmet visors and face shields, helmet-mounted ear defenders and chin straps, and spare helmet harnesses.
Browse our full safety helmet range in stock now, or get in touch to talk through which model fits your site.
Dipak Soni is the Managing Director and Founder of Specialised Hardwares Limited, a Nairobi-based supplier of PPE, safety equipment and industrial hardware serving construction, manufacturing and industrial businesses across Kenya.
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