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 either overspends or underprotects.

In short: SHL stocks safety helmets from entry-level slip-ratchet models to full-brim, electrically-insulated options, all certified to EN397. The right one 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 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.

Mid-range: EVO3 and wheel-ratchet HDPE models

Our EVO3 Safety Helmet Wheel Ratchet Vented (101-AJF170, also available as 101-AJF170D) steps up to a six-point terylene 3D-adjustment harness on a tough HDPE shell, EN397 certified, with optional retractable eye protection and other accessories. Our AC-PRO Safety Helmet Wheel Ratchet (101-SH682) combines a similar HDPE shell with a four-point textile suspension and universal accessory slots. Our Safety Helmet HDPE Vented (101-FP2) is a locally-focused option built to KS 06-963 with a six-point polyslip harness.

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 vented (101-AJQ170, EN397 and EN50365) or non-vented (101-AJP170, EN397 and EN50365, meeting optional Class E electrical insulation requirements), both on the Evolution six-point terylene harness with wheel ratchet. 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.