This archive report was first published on 13 July 2020.
Published on July 13, 2020, a report by Citizen TV exposed the severe air pollution caused by Endmor Steel Millers Ltd in Syokimau, Machakos County, leading to public outcry and an investigation by the National Environment Management Authority (Nema).
According to Governor Alfred Mutua, the county government dispatched an environment minister to inspect the miller on June 26, following complaints by the public about pollution.
During the inspection, the team found that the company did not provide evidence of compliance to air quality guidelines, and Nema's air quality audit report and annual licenses were not made available for inspection.
The report also revealed that the company lacked adequate sanitary facilities, with only four toilets and no running water for a workforce of over 300 employees.
“The toilets were inadequate for a workforce of more than 300 and there was overwhelming evidence that Covid-19 rules were not adhered to,” the report stated.
As a result, the Machakos County government has suspended the business license of Endmor Steel Millers Ltd and given the company until Monday to comply with the recommendations in the report.
“Occupational health and safety standards and protocols must be put in place to the satisfaction of Nema and Machakos County,” Governor Mutua said.
