Bhachu Industries workers
Bhachu Industries Ltd, a well-known trailer manufacturing company based in Nairobi’s Industrial Area, is under the spotlight after workers came forward with disturbing claims of mistreatment, unsafe working conditions, and systemic labor rights violations affecting both permanent and casual employees.
Alleged Violation of Labor Rights
Employees report that basic labor rights are routinely ignored. Requests for annual leave are often denied or forcibly encashed at year-end, while paternity leave is allegedly non-existent. Overtime is paid at a fixed rate, regardless of the number of hours worked, and work on Sundays or public holidays is remunerated at standard hourly rates instead of the legally mandated premium pay.
Salary reviews have reportedly not been conducted for several years, leaving casual workers with stagnant wages and little chance of adjustment despite rising living costs.
Weak Union Representation
Workers also accuse the company’s labor union representatives of being ineffective, claiming they prioritize management interests over employees’ welfare. Attempts to question company policies or raise concerns allegedly result in intimidation, disciplinary action, or other punitive measures.
Unsafe and Hazardous Work Environment
Another serious complaint centers on occupational safety. Employees say personal protective equipment (PPE)—including helmets, gloves, reflective vests, and safety boots—is distributed sparingly. Access to clean drinking water is said to be inconsistent, while sanitation facilities remain inadequate and unhygienic.
Injuries sustained on the job are reportedly handled in ways that minimize documentation, potentially preventing workers from seeking rightful compensation.
Nepotism and Favoritism
Workers further allege that Bhachu Industries is rife with nepotism. They claim that family members and individuals from certain regions receive preferential treatment in hiring, promotions, and job assignments, creating resentment and a rigid, hierarchical workplace culture.
Scope of the Problem
Bhachu Industries currently employs approximately 400 workers at its Nairobi Industrial Area plant, with more than half serving as casual laborers. Workers say that similar issues are also present at the company’s Lukenya godowns in Machakos County, raising concerns that these problems are systemic across the company’s operations.
Government Response Awaited
It remains unclear how regulators will respond, but the Ministry of Labour and the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services (DOSHS) may soon face mounting pressure to investigate.
For now, employees continue to describe an environment marked by intimidation, unsafe practices, favoritism, and the denial of basic rights—conditions they say undermine not just their well-being but also the overall efficiency and reputation of one of Kenya’s key manufacturing firms.