Evaluating the Compliance Levels of Electrical Safety Rules and Guidelines in Selected Technical and Vocational Education and Training Institutions in Nyeri County, Kenya
Benson Mungai Ndirangu, Simon Wanami & Isaac Nangendo
Department of Technology Education University of Eldoret
Email: ndirangubenson2020@gmail.com
Abstract: Electrical safety is critical in TVET institutions due to frequent handling of live circuits, machinery, and electrical tools. This study evaluated electrical safety compliance in selected TVET institutions in Nyeri County, Kenya. Using a descriptive survey design, quantitative data were gathered via questionnaires from 290 respondents (234 trainees, 56 trainers) and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Qualitative data from six administrator interviews and six observation checklists were analyzed thematically. The results demonstrated moderate overall compliance (M = 3.11, SD = 0.91). Specifically, guideline adequacy recorded a mean of 3.12 (SD = 0.96), compliance with safety rules 3.09 (SD = 0.95), safety equipment 3.14 (SD = 0.95), and safety training 3.11 (SD = 0.94). A significant association was found between safety training and compliance levels, χ²(4, N = 290) = 232.81, p < .001 (Cramer’s V = .634). Multiple regression revealed that guideline adequacy, safety equipment, and safety training jointly explained 84.7% of compliance variance, F(3, 286) = 527.885, p < .001. Safety equipment was the strongest predictor (β = .370), followed by safety training (β = .305) and guideline adequacy (β = .289). Qualitative and observation findings revealed outdated or generic guidelines, weak routine inspection, equipment serviceability gaps, irregular practical safety training, supervision challenges and budgetary constraints. The study concludes that compliance is moderate and requires an integrated institutional approach combining accessible workshop-specific guidelines, functional safety equipment, continuous practical training, routine inspection and stronger supervision.
