KENYA STANDARD   DKS 2977 -3:2022  
ICS 67.140.10  
First  Edition  
  
 © KEBS 2022   
 Sugar industry — Code of practice    
Part 3: Environmental and socio -economic  
sustainability   
 
 
 DKS 2977 -3: 2022  
ii © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 TECHNICAL COMMITTEE REPRESENTATION  
The following organizations were represented on the Technical Committee:  
Agriculture and Food Authority — Sugar Directorate  
Ministry of Industry, Trade and Co -operatives  
Ministry of H ealth – Food Safety Unit  
Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute  
National Public Health Laboratories Services  
Government Chemist’s Department  
Kenya Revenue Authority  
University of Nairobi — Department of Food Science and Technology  
Kenafric Industries Limited  
Consumer Information Network  
Trufoods Limited  
Brookside Limited  
Kenya Sweets Limited  
Mars Group Limited  
Muhoroni Sugar Company  Limited  
South Nyanza Sugar Company  Limited  
West Kenya Sugar Company  Limited  
Sukari Industries  Limited  
Butali Sugar mills  Limited  
Chemilil Sugar Company Limited  
Kibos Sugar and Allied companies  
Transmara Sugar company limited  
KALRO - Sugar Research Institute  
Kenya Bureau of Standards — Secretariat  
REVISION OF KENYA STANDARDS  
In order to keep abreast of progress in industry, Kenya Standards should  be regularly reviewed.  Suggestions 
for improvements to published standards, addressed to the Managing Director, Kenya Bureau of Standards, 
are welcome.  
© Kenya Bureau of Standards, 2022  
Copyright. Users are reminded that b y virtue of Section 25 of the Copyright Act, Cap. 130 of 2001 of  the Laws of Kenya, copyright subsists 
in all Kenya Standards and except as provided under Section 25 of this Act, no Kenya Standard produced by Kenya Bureau of Sta ndards 
may be reproduced, st ored in a retrieval system in any form or transmitted by any means without prior permission in writing from the 
Managing Director.   KENYA STANDARD   DKS 2977 -3:2022  
ICS 67.140.10  
First  Edition  
 
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  iii 
  Sugar industry  — code of practice   
Part 3: Environmental and socio -economic  sustainability   
Kenya Bureau of Standards,  Popo Road, Off Mombasa Road,  
P.O. Box 54974 - 00200,  Nairobi, Kenya  
 +254 020 6948000, + 254 722202137, + 254 734600471  
 info@kebs.org  
 @KEBS_ke  
 kenya bureau of standards (kebs)  
  
 DKS 2977 -3: 2022  
iv © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 Foreword  
This Kenya Standard was prepared by the Sugar and sugar products  Technical Committee under the guidance 
of the Standards Projects Committee, and it is in accordance with the procedures of the Kenya Bureau of 
Standards  
This Code of Practice is aimed at providing guidance to all stakeholders in the value chain to  conduct all activities 
in a manner that ensures food safety and quality; personnel safety and welfare; environmental protection and 
sustainability. It also intends to enhance compliance with statutory and regulatory requirements in Kenya.   
KS xxx:2022  consists of the following parts, under the general title Sugar industry - Code of practice :  
 Part 1: Primary production   
 Part 2: Cane harvesting,  processing  and trade    
 Part 3: Environment al and socio -economic  sustainability  
This first Edition provides guidelines and covers recommended best practices and requirements  Cane 
harvesting, transportation and processing of sugarcane . During the preparation of this standard, reference was 
made to the following document (s):  
ARS/AES 01 :2014  Agriculture — Sustainability and eco -labelling — Requirements  
Acknowledgement is hereby made for the assistance derived from this (these) source (s)  
 KS DKS 2977 -3: 2022  
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  v 
  Contents  Page 
Foreword  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...................  iv 
Introduction  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............  vi 
1 Scope  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .......................  2 
2 Normative references  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................  2 
3 Terms and definitions  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................  2 
4 General Requirements  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................  3 
4.1 Flexibility / Relevance  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........................  4 
4.2 Stakeholder engagement  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  4 
4.3 Undue administrative burden  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  4 
4.4 Management plan  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................  4 
5 General requirements  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............................  4 
5.1 Responsibility  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ...... 4 
5.2 Tr ansparency  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 5 
5.3 Legality  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .................  5 
5.4 Science -based approach  ................................ ................................ ................................ ....................  5 
5.5 Human rights  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ ....... 5 
5.6 Working conditions  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................  5 
6 Prin ciples, criteria and indicators  ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  5 
6.1 Legal compliance  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................  5 
6.2 Economic sustainability  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  6 
6.3 Social and Environmental Management  ................................ ................................ ...........................  6 
6.4 Human rights protection  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  8 
6.5 Labour rights protection  ................................ ................................ ................................ .....................  8 
6.6 Maintenance of biodiversity  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  15 
6.7 Soil management  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...............................  20 
6.8 Water management  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........................  22 
6.9 Climate change, mitigation and adaptation  ................................ ................................ ....................  26 
6.10 Crop husbandry and farm management  ................................ ................................ .......................  27 
6.11 Pesticide use and management  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..... 27 
6.12 Energy efficiency  ................................ ................................ ................................ .............................  28 
6.13 Waste and pollution management  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 28 
6.14 Handling and segregation of certified products  ................................ ................................ ..........  28 
Annex  A (normative)  Annex title  ................................ ................................ ................................ ...........  29 
A.1 General  ................................ ................................ .............................  Error! Bookmark not defined.  
Bibliography  ................................ ................................ ................................ ................................ .............  33 
  
vi © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 Introduction  
The Kenyan sugar industry has over the years experienced numerous operational challenges in primary 
production, processing and marketing. Part 3 of this code of practice provides requirements for the sustainable 
production, processing and trading of sugar and sugar  products. The standard applies to all production, 
processing and trading within the operator’s sphere of influence a framework and guidance to industry players 
to embrac e industry best practices, law and order, harmony, fair play, competitiveness, discipline and self -
regulation among others  in Cane harvesting, transportation and processing . 
List of principles  
Principle 1: Legal compliance  
Principle 2: Economic Sustainab ility  
Principle 3: Social and Environmental Management  
Principle 4: Human Rights Protection  
Principle 5: Labour Rights Protection  
Principle 6: Maintenance of Biodiversity  
Principle 7: Soil Management  
Principle 8: Water Management  
Principle 9: Climate Change, Mitigation and Adaptation  
Principle 10 : Crop Husbandry and Farm Management  
Principle 11 : Pesticide Use and Management  
Principle 12: Energy Efficiency  
Principle 13 : Waste and Pollution Management  
Principle 14 : Handling and Segregation o f Certified Products  
Principle 15 : Animal Husbandry  
Principle 16 : To develop and implement policies, programs and procedures for managing acquisitions, 
productivity and trading of the animal and animal products by the enterprise and records maintained.  
 KS DKS 2977 -3: yyyy    
 
© KEBS 2022 – All rights reserved   
 Sugar industry — Code of practice  
Part 3: Environment  and socio -economic sustainability   
1 Scope  
This Kenya Standard provides guidelines for achieving requirements for food safety and quality; worker health , 
safety and welfare; environmental protection and sustainability by value chain actors during primary production 
of sugar in Kenya. It applies to all players in the primary production including but not limited to growers, millers, 
harvesters, transporters , county governments and relevant government agencies . 
2 Normative references  
The following referenced documents referred to in the text in such a way that some or all of their content 
constitutes requirements of this document. For dated references, only the edition cited applies. For undated 
references, the latest edition of the referenced document (including any amendments) applies , see ISO/IEC 
Directives, Part  2). 
I. Forced Labour ILO Convention (No. 29)  
II. Discrimination (Employment and Discrimination) ILO Convention (No. 111)  
III. Minimum Age ILO Convention (No. 138)  
IV. ISO 9000:, Quality management systems — Fundamentals and vocabulary  
V. ISO 9001:, Quality Management Systems – Requirements  
VI. ISO 14001, Environment al Management Standards  
VII. ISO 14040:, Environmental management — Life cycle assessment — Principles and framework  
VIII. ISO 19011, Guidelines for Auditing Quality Management Systems  
IX. ISO 26000:, Guidance on Social Responsibility  
X. ISO/IEC 17065: Conformity assess ment -- Requirements for bodies certifying products, processes and 
services  
3 Terms and definitions  
For the purposes of this document, the following terms and definitions apply.  
3.1  
audit: A systematic and functionally independent examination to determi ne whether quality and food safety 
activities and results comply with planned procedures and whether these procedures are implemented 
effectively and are suitable to achieve objectives.  
 
certification:  All those actions leading to the issuing an official document attesting to a status or level of 
achievement of requirements of a standard  
documentation:  Is the collection, classification and dissemination of information relating to a process or 
procedure  usually in written or electronic form   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  iii 
  erosion:  Erosion is the mechanical movement of the land surface by wind, rain, running water or moving ice 
resulting in the wearing away of land or soil  
food safety : The assurance that food will not cause harm to the  consumer when it is prepared and consumed 
according to its intended use  
Integrated pest management (IPM ): a consideration of all available pest control techniques and subsequent 
integration of appropriate measures that discourage the development of pest populations and keep plant 
protection products and other interventions to levels that are economically justified and reduce or minimize risks 
to human health and the environment  
value chain actors:  Individual producers of primary agricultural products incl uding propagators and breeders; 
growers, associations and cooperatives; processors and packers; trading companies (including exporters), 
shippers, consolidators and cargo handlers  
sugarcane - Botanically a tall grass of the genus Saccharum and agricultural ly the crop produced from hybrids 
which are the progeny of a number of Saccharum species commonly referred to as cane. For determination and 
payment of sucrose in cane it is the raw material accepted at the mill for processing.  
Operator - an individual or organisation responsible for ensuring that the production system and the products 
meet the requirements of this standard   
production management unit (PMU) - unit (can be a farm, field, orchard, herd, greenhouse, etc.) defined by 
the producer for units where  segregation of output (agricultural products) is intended and all provisions have 
been made and put in place to keep separate records and prevent mixing in the case of parallel production  
social and environmental management system (SEMs)  - part of an organization's management system used 
to develop and implement its social and environmental policy and manage its social and environmental aspects  
biodiversity - the variability among living organisms from all sources including, inter alia, terrestrial, ma rine and 
other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are part; this includes diversity within 
species, between species and of ecosystems.  
management plan - the collection of documents, reports, records and maps that describe, justif y and regulate 
the activities carried out by any manager, staff or organization within or in relation to the management unit, 
including statements of objectives and policies  
conformity assessment - demonstration that specified requirements relating to a pr oduct, process, system, 
person or body are fulfilled  
certified product  - crops and the products produced on a certified farm that complies with applicable standards 
and policies.  
Environmental sustainability - 
4. General Requirements  
Stakeholders within the sugar value chain should undertake production, processing, distribution and trading of 
sugar in a manner that ensures high productivity and efficiency; food safety and quality; worker health, safety 
and welfare; environmental protection and sustainabil ity. 
Adequate measures should be taken, as appropriate throughout the value chain in accordance with relevant 
Kenya Standards to achieve the following:  
a) High productivity and efficiency by adopting industry best practices;  
b) Safety by identifying practices, c ontrol measures, and monitoring hazards associated with the product 
at each step;   
iv © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 c) Quality by identifying factors that compromise sugar quality and implement measures to ensure 
conformity to product specifications;  
d) Environmental protection by adopting susta inable practices; and  
e) Worker health, safety and welfare by adhering to relevant legislation.  
4.1 Guidance clause  
4.1.1 Flexibility / Relevance  
This standard is flexible enough to be useful for operators of various sizes, processes, systems, products and  
countries of operation. In adhering to this standard, the operator should  deal only with those elements that are 
relevant to the operator’s activities.  
If certain specific sustainability aspects are considered not relevant to the process, the operator should justify 
the specific manner in which its operations do not contribute to the impact of the aspects concerned.  
Local circumstances should  be taken into account when assessing the environmental, social or economic 
situation.  
4.1.2 Stakeholder engageme nt  
Where required in this standard or when a legal right is exercised by a stakeholder in regard to any indicator 
that affects the stakeholder’s welfare, the operator should  document how stakeholders were engaged.  
NOTE "Engaged" means both that stakehold ers were provided opportunity to comment and that the operator 
provided a documented response to any grievance presented by stakeholders.  
4.1.3 Undue administrative burden  
The capacity and resources of the operator should be taken into account so that th is standard does not cause 
excessive administrative burden.  
4.1.4 Management plan  
When referenced as an indicator in this standard, management plans are intended to be a flexible mechanism 
for the operator to use to establish reasonable and appropriate plans to address relevant sustainability aspects. 
A plan that does not include all el ements listed in the definition of a management plan is not considered a 
management plan for the purpose of this standard.  
The form of a management plan is not specified; a plan may be comprised of disparate or consolidated 
proprietary documents, referenc e materials and/or demonstrated knowledge and/or practice. Monitored data 
generated in accordance with the plan should be accessible to the verifier to facilitate his or her assessment 
and to ensure that the definition of a management plan has been adhered  to. The data itself would not be 
attached to or incorporated into the verifier’s conformity assessment.  
5 Specific  requirements  
5.1 Responsibility  
An operator should  be responsible for only its own operations in applying this standard. Its own operations are 
defined as the sum of activities conducted by the operator throughout the supply chain, including those 
contracted activities conducted by its subcontractors.    
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  v 
  5.2 Transparency  
The data, information sources and assumptions used should  be communicated in a clear, accurate, timely, 
honest and complete manner (ISO 26000).  
5.3 Legality  
The operator should  be in compliance with all applicable laws and regulations hav ing direct relevance to the 
principles, criteria and indicators presented in this standard. An operator may document instances where it is 
prohibited from complying with this standard as a consequence of a conflicting applicable law or regulation.  
5.4 Sci ence -based approach  
Any data collected or used in the application of this standard, as well as justifications, presentations, 
commentary, or interpretation of results associated with the use of this standard, should  be based on science, 
experience and tec hnology.  
5.5 Human rights  
This standard strives to ensure that the actions of the operators and their subcontractors respect the human 
rights of all citizenry, especially those of local stakeholders.  
The operators should  respect universally recognized h uman rights.  
5.6 Working conditions  
The operator should  respect labour rights and provide safe and healthy working conditions, including providing 
tools, equipment and training that address the risk of workplace hazards.  
6 Principles, criteria and indic ators  
6.1 Legal compliance  
Principle: Compliance with all applicable laws and regulations.  
6.1.1 Compliance with national and international law  
Criterion: The operator should  comply with applicable national laws and regulations and with applicable 
international treaties and agreements.  
Indicators  
6.1.1.1 The operator documents outstanding (unresolved) issues of non -compliance with all applicable national 
laws and regulations  and with applicable international agreements.  
6.1.1.2 The operator knows and complies with the applicable laws and all applicable licenses, permits and other 
legal requirements are valid.  
6.1.1.3 Number of final, binding and unappealable decisions of th e applicable judicial authority against the 
operator related to the violation of applicable national laws and regulations and with applicable international 
agreements.  
6.1.1.4 Documented evidences for ensuring that all identified laws and regulations are implemented.  
6.1.1.5 An appropriately scaled system for tracking any changes in the law.   
vi © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 NOTE 1 Implementing all legal requirements is an essential baseline requirement for all agriculture enterprises 
whatever their location or size. Relevant legislation  includes, but is not limited to, regulations governing land 
tenure and land -use rights,  labour, agricultural practices (e.g., chemical use), environment (e.g., wildlife laws, 
pollution, environmental management and forestry laws), storage, transportation and processing practices. It 
also includes laws made pursuant to a country’s obligations under international laws or conventions (e.g. the 
Convention on Biodiversity, CBD). Furthermore, where countries have provisions to respect customary law, 
these must b e taken into account.  
NOTE 2 For small -scale enterprises the focus should be on the enterprisers having adequate knowledge of the 
main legal requirements and implementing them.  
NOTE 3 For national interpretation, all relevant legislation should be identi fied, and any particularly important 
requirements identified. Contradictions and inconsistencies should be identified and solutions suggested.  
NOTE 4 For group certification of small enterprises — group managers should provide training for group 
members o n applicable laws and legal compliance.  
6.2 Economic sustainability  
Principle: To produce , process and trade agricultural products in an economically and financially viable way.  
6.2.1 Fair business practices  
Criterion: The operator should  follow fair b usiness practices and thereby not engage in any fraudulent, 
deceptive, or dishonest consumer or commercial business practice that is prohibited by statute or regulation.  
Indicators  
6.2.1.1 Number of final, binding and unappealable decisions of an applica ble judicial authority against the 
operator for unfair business practices that remain unresolved.  
6.2.1.2 The operator has programs for monitoring and enforcement in regard to fair business practices.  
6.2.2 Financial risk management  
Criterion: The operator should  manage financial risk.  
Indicators  
6.2.2.1 There is evidence that the operator has identified any significant financial risks.  
6.2.2.2 There is evidence that the operator has strategies in place to manage significant financial risks.  
6.3 Social and Environmental Management  
6.3.1 Social and Environmental Management System  
Principle: A social and environmental management system ensuring sustainability and integrity with respect to 
this standard and respective national legislation bind ing for social, labour and environmental aspects of 
operations.  
Criterion: The operator should  have a social and environmental management system for the Production 
Management Unit (PMU) according to the nature of the enterprise that contains the necessary  policies, 
programmes and procedures that facilitate compliance with the requirements of this standard and relevant local 
and national legislation.  
Indicators   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  vii 
  6.3.1.1 Documented evidence of a functional social and environmental management system and in l ine with the 
requirements of this standard and applicable laws and regulations.  
6.3.1.2 Maps identifying the projects, infrastructure and special areas (for conservation and protection) related 
to the indicated activities or to the requirements of this st andard  
6.3.1.3  Evidence of monitoring and regular reviews to ascertain that the social and environmental system is 
functioning adequately and to accommodate emerging innovations in the environmental, social and 
circumstances.  
6.3.1.4 The objectives and a summary of the social and environmental management system and its programs 
are publicly available and made known to workers.  
6.3.1.5 All documentation and records created for the social and environmental management system, as well 
as documents proving com pliance with the standard are available to the persons responsible for carrying out 
the plan’s various programs and activities.  
6.3.1.6 Evidence that the potential social and environmental impacts of new works or activities are evaluated in 
accordance wit h applicable laws or, in their absence, based on technically accepted and recognized methods.  
6.3.1.7 Existence of a mechanism for follow -up, measurement and analysis, to evaluate the functioning of the 
social and environmental management system and contribute to continual improvement.  
6.3.1.8 Evidence of a mechanism to assess and establish commitment by the operator  service providers to 
complying with the environmental, social and labour requirements of this standard, not only while operating on 
the farm but also for any outside activities related to the services provided.  
6.3.1.9 Evidence of a training and education program in order to guarantee the effective execution of the social 
and environmental management system and its programs.  
6.3.2 Contribution towards the community well -being  
Criterion: The operator should  implement policies and procedures for identifying and considering the interests 
of local populations and community interest groups regarding farm activities or changes that could have an 
impact on their health, employment or local natural resources.  
Indicators  
6.3.2.1 Operators can demonstrate participation in actions that strengthen the local economy including through 
the following actions:  
(a) By adopting a policy of preferential employment of residents from the local community or from labour tenants 
on the farm.  
(b) Pro -active consultations with local communities, either independently, or through a local forum to establish 
both community needs and aspirations, and to work towards a commonly agreed goal for the mutual benefit of 
all participating part ies.  
6.3.2.2 The operators should  document and make available for public view all complaints and comments it 
receives related to its activities and its replies to them.  
6.3.2.3 The operator should  contribute to the protection and conservation of communit y natural resources, 
collaborate with the development of the local economy, and contribute fairly towards the costs of the community 
infrastructure and local shared resources consumed – schools, pathways, aqueducts and other infrastructure 
as well as water  and other resources – according to the amount used by the operator.  
6.3.2.4 Operators should  negotiate a fair compensation with local communities and local and national authorities 
for resources and infrastructure used.   
viii © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 6.3.2.5 The operator should  help with local environmental education efforts and must support and collaborate 
with local research in areas related to this standard.  
 6.3.2.6  The operator should  have a legitimate right to land use and tenure, demonstrated by presenting the 
appropriate offic ial documentation. If there is no such documentation the operator should  show either:  
(a) The absence of significant disputes on land use, tenure and access, or;  
(b) The consent of local communities, regarding the land, natural and agricultural resources .  
6.4 Human rights protection  
Principle: Respect human rights.  
6.4.1 Universal Declaration of Human Rights  
Criterion : The operator should  provide information regarding how the Universal Declaration of Human Rights 
is applicable to the operations of the  enterprise and how issues are addressed.  
Indicators  
6.4.1.1 Number of final, binding and unappealable decisions of the applicable judicial authority against the 
operator related to the violation of the human rights described in the Criterion that remain unresolved.  
6.4.1.2 The operator has implemented a declaratio n on social practices supporting human rights that has been 
signed by the management of the operator and any existing representative(s) of employees and the declaration 
has been communicated to the employees.  
6.5 Labour rights protection  
Principle: Respe ct of labour rights.  
6.5.1 ILO conventions  
Criterion: The operator should  comply with nationally applicable ILO Conventions.  
6.5.1.1 Indicator: Evidence of compliance with nationally applicable ILO conventions.  
6.5.2 Third party contractors  
Criterion: Operators should  implement a mechanism to ensure the human rights and labour rights apply equally 
when labour is contracted through third parties.  
Indicators  
6.5.2.1 The operator maintains up -to-date records of all independent third parties en gaged in the project 
operation(s).  
6.5.2.2 Evidence that the third parties who engage these workers are reputable and legitimate enterprises.  
6.5.2.3 Evidence of established policies and procedures for engaging, managing and monitoring the 
performance of  third party employers in relation to the requirements of this Standard and that, as far as 
commercially reasonable, incorporation of these requirements in contractual agreements with third party 
employers  
6.5.2.4 Documents verifying that the third party is contracted in accordance with criterion (6.5.2)   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  ix 
  6.5.2.5 Evidence that contracted workers have access to a grievance mechanism. In cases where the third party 
is not able to provide a grievance mechanism the participating operator provides its own griev ance mechanism 
to serve workers engaged by the third party.   
6.5.3 Forced or slave labour  
Criterion No slave labour or forced labour should  occur and the operator should  not employ trafficked persons.  
Indicators  
6.5.3.1 Evidence that operator does not engage in or support the use of forced, compulsory, bonded, trafficked 
or otherwise involuntary labour as defined in ILO Convention 29 either directly or through independent third 
parties (e.g. contractors, etc.).  
6.5.3.2 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that they are not required to lodge their 
identity documents with anyone and that no part of their salary, benefits or property is retained in order to force 
them to work or stay on the operation(s ).  
6.5.3.3 Spouses and children of workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator are not obliged to work in 
the operation(s).  
6.5.3.4 Workers engaged in the operation(s) confirm that they are allowed to leave their employment after due 
notice accor ding to their contractual agreements.  
6.5.3.5 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that they are allowed to leave company 
premises freely at the end of their work shifts.  
6.5.3.6 Evidence that workers are not subject to corporal pu nishment, mental or physical oppression or coercion, 
verbal or physical abuse, sexual harassment or any other kind of intimidation.  
6.5.4 Child labour  
Criterion: The operator should  not employ children in any manner that is economically exploitative, or is likely 
to be hazardous or to interfere with the child’s education, or to be harmful to the child’s health or physical, 
mental, spiritual, moral, or social development.  
Indicators  
6.5.4.1 Evidence that the operator does not engage children below minimu m age or the legal national age.  
6.5.4.2 Evidence that, where legally allowed, workers under the age of 18 do not undertake hazardous or 
dangerous work, as defined by ILO convention 138.  
In the case of family farms only:  
6.5.4.3 Evidence demonstrating t hat in operations where permitted by law, children between 12 and 14 years 
of age can work part time on family farms, only if they are family members or neighbours in a community where 
children have traditionally helped with agricultural work.  
6.5.4.4 Evidence demonstrating that in project operations, the work of children on family farms does not interfere 
with the child’s education, or to be harmful to the child’s health or physical, mental, spiritual, moral, or social 
development and that the work day in cluding schooling, transport and work does not exceed 10 hours.  
6.5.4.5 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that the work of children on family farms does 
not have negative impacts on the children’s schooling (i.e. this may be verified by interviewing the children and 
the teachers at the local school).   
x © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 6.5.4.6 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that the work of children on family farms does 
not have negative impact on the children’s health and development (i.e. this may be verified by interviewing 
children and local health service providers).  
6.5.4.7  Evidence of workers ages can be shown and those under 18 year are identified.  
6.5.5 Trade unions, freedom of association and the right to organize  
Criterion: The operator should  respect the right of forming and joining or not joining trade unions, freedom of 
association, the right to organize, and to collectively bargain, according to national law.  
Indicators  
6.5.5.1 The right to form, join, trade or not join  unions should  be stated in the labour contract, subject to national 
law. Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that they are aware of, and have the right to 
freely organize, voluntarily negotiate their working conditions and bargain collectively with the management of 
the operation(s), as established in ILO Conventions 87 and 98.  
6.5.5.2 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that they do not fear nor suffer any negative 
consequences (e.g. loss of privileges, penalties, lack of career advancement) in exercising the right to freely 
organize, voluntarily negotiate their working conditions and bargain collectively with the management of the 
operation(s).  
6.5.5.3 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that there is no perceived or actual threat 
of undue interference by the management and/or their desig nated representatives of the operation(s) of the 
operator in workers exercising their rights to freely organize, voluntarily negotiate their working conditions and 
bargain collectively with the management of the operation(s).  
6.5.5.4 In situations where t he rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining are restricted by law, 
the management of the operation(s) of the operator allows workers to freely elect their own representatives, 
does not interfere with such representational mechanisms, and provides a mechanism for workers to freely 
engage and negotiate with employers without breaking the law analogue to the requirements established in ILO 
Conventions 87 and 98.  
6.5.5.5 Evidence that workers are not hindered from interacting with external pa rties outside working hours (e.g. 
NGOs, labour inspectors, agricultural extension workers, certification bodies).  
6.5.6 Contracts  
Criterion: There should  be in existence a contract or equivalent document, covering workers' wages and 
working conditions, a ccording to national law and nationally applicable international conventions, as well as 
relevant collective agreements.  
Indicators  
6.5.6.1 Evidence of contracts and records of paid wages.  
6.5.6.2 Records of paid wages that meet industry or legal minimu m wage and/or collective bargaining 
agreements can be presented.  
6.5.6.3 Evidence of contractual arrangements, including those involving multiple parties establishing who is 
responsible for providing adequate labour and working conditions to workers.  
6.5.7 Working conditions  
Criterion : Workers' wages and working conditions should  respect all applicable laws and international 
conventions, as well as all relevant collective agreements. Where a government regulated minimum wage is in 
place in a given countr y and applies to the specific industry sector, this should  be observed. Where a minimum  
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xi 
  wage is absent, the wage paid for a particular activity should  be negotiated and agreed on an annual basis with 
the workers. All workers should  receive equal remunerati on for work of equal value.   
Indicators  
6.5.7.1 Workers (including temporary workers), sharecroppers, contractors and subcontractors have a written 
contract, in a language that they can understand.  
NOTE: The requirements of indicator6.5.7.1 are recommend ed in all cases. However, for small farms where 
there are high illiteracy rates group managers may implement alternative mechanisms to make collectively 
known and verify valid working relationships.  
6.5.7.2 The workers are provided with documented informa tion that is clear and understandable, regarding their 
rights under national labour and employment law and any applicable collective agreements, including their rights 
related to hours of work, wages, overtime arrangements and overtime compensation; breaks ; rest days; and 
leave for illness, maternity, vacation or holiday and benefits upon beginning the working relationship and when 
any material changes occur.  
6.5.7.3 Objective evidence demonstrating that all workers are paid at least the government regulated minimum 
wage in the specific industry sector for the applicable work as required by law, and that this includes all 
mandated wages, allowances and benefits.  
6.5.7 .4 Evidence demonstrating that where government regulated minimum wages do not exist in the specific 
industry sector, the management of the operation(s) of the operator has agreed a wage with the workers.  
6.5.7.5 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the  operator confirm that the agreed wage, as referred to in 
indicator 6.4.7.4 is agreed freely on an annual basis.  
6.5.7.6 Evidence demonstrating that such agreements are in line with all applicable laws and international 
conventions and local collective ag reements.  
6.5.7.7 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that men, women and migrant workers earn 
equal pay for equal work.  
6.5.7.8 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that for piecework, the pay rate allows m ale 
and female workers to earn at least the legal minimum wage (or comparable regional wage) for the specific 
work, based on an eight -hour workday under average conditions.  
6.5.7.9 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that wages are  paid on a regular or monthly 
basis in legal tender  
6.5.7.10 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that no deductions from wages as a result 
of disciplinary measures are made.  
6.5.7.11 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that all agreements relating to pay, benefits 
and conditions of employment are upheld.  
6.5.7.12 Evidence that normal weekly working hours do not exceed 48[52] hours . Weekly overtime hours do not 
exceed 32 hours. Supporting documents of working hours or schedules as well as breaks (indicator)  
6.5.7.13 If additional overtime hours are necessary demonstrable evidence that the following conditions are 
met:  
(a) It only occurs for limited periods of t ime (e.g. peak harvest, planting).  
(b) Where there is a trade union or representative organization the overtime conditions are negotiated and 
agreed with that organization.   
xii © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 (c) Where there is no trade union or representative organization agreement the av erage working hours in the 
two-month period after the start of the exceptional period still do not exceed 60 hours per week  
6.5.7.14  Evidence that overtime work at all times is voluntary and paid according to legal or sector standards. 
In case overtime wor k is needed, workers receive timely notification. Workers are entitled to at least one day off 
following every six consecutive days of work.  
6.5.7.15 Evidence that salaried workers have all entitlements and protection in national law and practice with 
respect to maternity. Workers taking maternity leave are entitled to return to their employment on the same 
terms and conditions that applied to them prior to taking leave and they are not subject to any discrimination, 
loss of seniority or deductions of wage s.  
6.5.7.16 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that in cases of 
terminations/redundancies/lay -offs, compensation for workers is provided according to relevant national labour 
legislation, and that in the absence of national legisl ation, the labour contract includes a provision for 
compensation.  
6.5.7.17 Adequate and appropriate training and comprehensible instructions on fundamental rights at work, 
health and safety and any necessary guidance or supervision are provided to all wor kers. To be optimized   
6.5.7.18 Evidence that the management does hold regular two -way communication meetings with their 
employees where issues affecting the business can be discussed openly. (indicator)  
6.5.8 Health, safety and hygiene policy  
Criterion: The operator should  follow a written and updated occupational health, safety and hygiene policy and 
procedures, including issues of risk assessment in accordance with internationally recognized standards  
Mental health issues/bill  
Indicators  
6.5.8.1 Evidence that conditions of safety and health at the work place are in consistent compliance with the 
provisions of ILO convention 155 and 184.  
6.5.8.2 Producers and their employees demonstrate an awareness and understanding of health and safety 
matters.  
6.5.8.3 Relevant health and safety risks are identified, procedures are developed to address these risks by 
employers, and these are monitored.  
6.5.8.4 Potentially hazardous tasks are only carried out by capable and competent people who do not face  
specific health risks.  
6.5.8.5 Evidence demonstrating that workers are skilled in the implementation of their prescribed activities and 
jobs to minimize health and safety risks and the risk of work related accidents.  
6.5.8.6 The operator has a health an d safety policy in place, which applies to all workers, including contractors, 
and out growers.  
6.5.8.7 Small operators do not need to have the procedures required in indicator 6.5.7.19.6 in written form, but 
they need to be able to demonstrate that the r equirements of indicators 6.5.7.19.6 are complied with, and that 
their workers are aware of, and confirm implementation of such requirements (procedures and measures).  
6.5.8.8 Evidence demonstrating that procedures and measures addressing emergencies and accidents are in 
place, fully implemented, continuously monitored and improved, and apply to all workers engaged in the 
operations of the participating operator.   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xiii 
  6.5.8.9 Evidence demonstrating that all workers understand the operators’ accident and emerge ncy prevention, 
preparedness and response arrangements and measures.  6.5.8.10 The operator maintains, and reviews 
periodically records of all work -related accidents, incidents and diseases and adjusts its accident and 
emergency procedures to minimize the r isk of work -related accidents.  
6.5.8.11 Evidence demonstrating that first aid kits, fire extinguishers, and spill and operator contamination 
response material are available in sufficient quantity (i.e. readily available and accessible to workers) and qual ity 
(i.e. current and periodically serviced and appropriate to address the associated hazards and risks) at all sites 
including mobile facilities and that workers are knowledgeable of such equipment and its use.  
6.5.8.12 Evidence demonstrating that all wo rkers (including subcontractors) are provided with and regularly use 
personal protective equipment to protect them from all occupational health and safety hazards associated with 
their respective jobs.  
6.5.8.13 Evidence that there is a system of warnings followed by legally -permitted sanctions for workers that do 
not apply safety requirements.  
6.5.8.14 Objective evidence of a work and safety plan demonstrating that all workers (including subcontractors) 
are:  
(a) trained, knowledgeable and regularly using protective equipment and installations,  
(b) trained and knowledgeable in interpretation of labels, markings, signs, and other safety relevant audio and/or 
visual signals,  
(c) trained and knowledgeable about work -related health and safety risks and preventative measures for 
minimizing the risk to health and safety,  
(d) trained and knowledgeable about work -related risks to the environment and/or society,  
(e) trained and knowledgeable about accident and emerge ncy procedures,  
(f) trained and knowledgeable about correct application, transport, storage and handling of hazardous 
substances and waste, and  
(g) trained and knowledgeable about all other aspects of the operation(s) of the participating operator that pose 
occupational health and safety risks or risks to the environment and/or to society.  
6.5.8.15 In operation(s) other than small operations the operator provides objective evidence demonstrating 
that specially trained and equipped teams have been established to respond to accidents and emergencies 
without delay.  
6.5.8.16 Evidence demonstrating that all workers have access to clean sanitary facili ties and potable (drinking) 
water.  
6.5.8.17 Evidence that any living quarters and infrastructure for sleeping, for sanitary facilities (e.g. toilet/latrines, 
showers, etc.) and facilities for storing, preparing and distributing of food provided to workers  are designed, built 
and regularly maintained to meet the basic needs of the personnel and their families, and comply with legal 
requirements, and ensure safe and healthy conditions.  
6.5.8.18 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm tha t housing provided by the operator is 
in good structural condition, is maintained sufficiently and offers sufficient privacy, sanitary, health, and safety 
conditions.  
6.5.8.19 Evidence that the management does hold regular two -way communication meetings w ith their 
employees where issues related to worker health, safety and welfare can be discussed openly  
6.5.9 Social welfare and benefits   
xiv © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 Criterion: In the operation the workers should  be linked to the system of social welfare and participate in the 
plan of  occupational health and safety, as per the current national legislation. All social benefits required by 
national law and/or collective negotiations should  be offered by the employer to employees and their families.  
6.5.10 Non -discrimination  
Criterion: Workers should  be free of discrimination of any kind, whether in employment or opportunity, with 
respect to gender, wages, working conditions, and social benefits.  
Indicators  
6.5.10.1 Self-declaration by the operator implements the provisions of ILO Conv ention 111.  
6.5.10.2 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that they are not subjected to any form of 
discrimination in hiring, remuneration, benefits, access to training, promotion, termination, retirement or any 
other aspect of emp loyment.  
6.5.10.3 Workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that they are not subjected to corporal 
punishment, mental or physical oppression and coercion, verbal or physical abuse, sexual harassment or any 
other kind of intimidation in the workplace and where applicable in residences and other facilities provided by 
the operation(s) of the operator for use by workers.  
6.5.10.4 Male and female workers engaged in the operation(s) of the operator confirm that they have equal 
access to care er development programs (not applicable to family farms or small -scale operators and 
outgrowers).  
6.5.10.5 A publicly available equal opportunities policy exists.  
6.5.10.6 If the operator hires migrant workers, appropriate measures have been taken to pre vent any 
discriminatory treatment of migrant workers.  
6.5.10.7 Evidence that the operator has addressed protection of disabled people’s rights under all of their labour 
policies and procedures including working conditions, access and egress for disabled p eople.  
6.5.10.8 Special measures of protection or assistance to remedy past discrimination have been put in place 
such as policies designed to increase employment of underrepresented groups in the workforce or in particular 
occupations in order to remedy past discrimination, such as affirmative action and employment of members of 
the local community, with a view to achieving effective equality of opportunity and treatment in the workplace.  
6.5.11 Retrenchment  
Criterion: Prior to implementing any collecti ve dismissals, the operator should  carry out an analysis of 
alternatives to retrenchment. If the analysis does not identify viable alternatives to retrenchment, a retrenchment 
plan should  be developed and implemented to reduce the adverse impacts of retrenchment on workers.  
NOTE 1 Collective dismissal cover all multiple dismissals that are a result of an economic, technical, or 
organizational reason; or other reasons that are not related to performance or other personal reasons.  
NOTE 2 Examples of alternatives may include negotiated working -time reduction programs, employee capacity -
building programs; long -term maintenance works during low production periods, etc.  
Indicators  
6.5.11.1 The retrenchment plan is based on the principle of non -discrimination and reflects the operator’s 
consultation with workers, their organizations, and, where appropriate, the government, and complies with 
collective bargaining agreements if they exis t. 
6.5.11.2 The operator complies with all legal and contractual requirements related to notification of public 
authorities, and provision of information to, and consultation with workers and their organizations.   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xv 
  6.5.11.3 The operator ensures that all workers re ceive notice of dismissal and severance payments mandated 
by law and collective agreements in a timely manner. All outstanding back pay and social security benefits and 
pension contributions and benefits are paid (i) on or before termination of the working  relationship to the workers, 
(ii) where appropriate, for the benefit of the workers, or (iii) payment is made in accordance with a timeline 
agreed through a collective agreement.  
6.5.11.4 Where payments are made for the benefit of workers, workers are pr ovided with evidence of such 
payments.  
6.5.12 Right to privacy  
Criterion : The HR policy of the operator should  uphold and communicate workers’ right to privacy relevant to 
the business operations.  
Indicators  
6.5.12.1 Evidence that the policy includes:  
(a) notification : notification to workers on the data collection process and the type of data collected;  
(b) purpose : the purpose of collecting the data;  
(c) consent : data should not be collected or disclosed without the worker’s consent;  
(d) security : data should be kept secure and confidential;  
(e) disclosure : workers should be informed as to who is collecting their data;  
(f) access : workers should be allowed to access their data and make corrections to any inaccurate data; and  
(g) accountability : workers should have a method available to them to hold data collectors accountable for 
following the above principles.  
6.5.12.2 Evidence that data is only collected and used for reasons directly relevant to employment and that all 
medical data remains con fidential.  
6.5.12.3 Evidence that if workers are being filmed, or will be body searched, or if other surveillance methods 
are used, the operator has informed them and the reasons explained for these procedures. Any such method 
should follow the criterion stated above and should be conducted in ways that does not cause harassment, 
intimidation, harm on safety and health of workers intrusion of privacy and insensitivity to cultural and spiritual 
believes of the concerned workers..  
6.5.12.4 The operator has informed workers about the type of information that will be kept and how this 
information will be used.  
6.5.12.5 Evidence that the operator is complying with legal requirements for employment record retention and 
has informed the workers to ensure that information is accurate, relevant and safe from improper disclosure.  
6.5.12.6 The operator keeps personnel files that reflect performance reviews and any complaints brought 
against the company or individual employees.  
6.5.12.7  The operator  keeps all final memoranda and correspondence reflecting performance reviews and 
actions taken by or against personnel in the employee's personnel file.  
6.6 Maintenance of biodiversity  
Principle: To maintain and/or enhance biodiversity and supporting hab itats within the farming system and its 
surroundings.   
xvi © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 6.6.1 Protection and conservation of biodiversity  
Criterion: The operator should  identify, support, protect and maintain the integrity of terrestrial, wetland and 
aquatic ecosystems inside and outside  of the farm and promote ecologically functional habitats and species, 
and should  not permit their destruction or alteration as a result of management or production activities on the 
farm.  
Indicators  
6.6.1.1 The operator addresses biodiversity within the farm plan to assess current ecosystems and identify 
appropriate habitat management practices, and encouraging participation in existing conservation programs 
and watershed ecosystem protection efforts to suppo rt diverse species and habitats.  
6.6.1.2 The status of rare, threatened or endangered species that exist in the area of operations or that could 
be affected by operations are identified, recorded and their conservation taken into account in management 
plans and operations.  
6.6.1.3 Primary ecosystems, such as primary forests and wetlands, should  not be cleared or drained for the 
purpose of establishing production, processing or trading operations.  
6.6.1.4 To the extent possible and appropriate to the crop  and the conditions, trees cover should  be enhanced 
in and/or around the fields in addition to activities aimed at restoration of natural ecosystems within the farm.  
6.6.1.5 Intentional burning of vegetation should  be prohibited and alternative methods ad opted for utilization of 
vegetation thereby protecting organic matter and biodiversity for enhanced productivity.  
6.6.1.6 Appropriate measures (such as but not limited to mulching, composting, crop rotation, intercropping, 
agro-forestry) should  be underta ken to stimulate and enhance plant production, organic matter, soil fertility, 
microbial activity, soil and plant health.  
6.6.1.7 For perennial crops, intercropping may be undertaken for crops whose husbandry practices do not lead 
to risks on food safety.  For perennial crops that are grown as monocultures where intercropping is not possible 
,other means to secure biodiversity should  be applied to the growing system.  
6.6.1.8 For any new plant introduction, the operator should  undertake a risk assessment on ecological suitability 
and the impacts the new species will have on the ecosystem.  
6.6.1.9 Hunting, capturing, extracting and trafficking wild animals should  be prohibited on the farm. Cultural or 
ethnic groups are allowed to hunt or collect fauna in a controlled manner and in areas designated for those 
purposes under the following conditions:  
(a) The activities do not involve species in danger of or threatened with extinction.  
(b) There are established laws that recognize  the rights of these groups to hunt or collect wildlife. Hunting and 
collection activities do not have negative impacts on the ecological processes or functions important for 
agricultural and local ecosystem sustainability. The long -term viability of the s pecies’ populations is not affected.  
(d) These activities are not for commercial purposes.  
6.6.1.10 Timing harvest and other mechanical activities, within the window of opportunity, to minimize impacts 
on wildlife, habitat, and/or ecosystem functions, es pecially during critical reproduction and migratory periods.  
6.6.2 Protection of areas of high biodiversity value  
Criterion: There should  be no economic production in areas designated as conservation areas according to 
national law and regulations and in ternational conventions except when a specific form of use is stated to serve 
the biodiversity protection purpose in official documentation and/or approved management plans.  
Indicators   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xvii 
  6.6.2.1 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that t hey have identified the status of the area 
and the conservation values of global, regional or local importance affected by the potential or existing 
operation(s) of the operator.  
6.6.3 Biodiversity values within the area of production  
Criterion : Biodiver sity values should  be promoted within the area of production and the nearby environment 
that can be directly influenced by the operator.  
Indicators  
6.6.3.1 The operator has developed and implemented a biodiversity management plan.  
6.6.3.2 The operator’s  biodiversity management plan encompasses fragmentation of habitat.  
6.6.3.3 The operator’s biodiversity management plan encompasses the mapped area (ha) of protected or 
restored ecological corridors, the buffer zones and the set -aside areas in the bioener gy production site and the 
percentage of the bioenergy production site that is set aside for biodiversity protection.  
6.6.3.4 Evidence of implementation of appropriate crop management practices to assist conservation of rare, 
threatened, endangered or imp ortant vulnerable ecosystems species of local, regional, or global importance, 
where present including:  
(a) Appropriate timing of field operations to avoid harm to listed species, e.g. field operations timed to avoid 
disturbance to nesting and fledging bi rds  
(b) Use of fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides and fungicides considers impact on listed species  
(c) Limited and appropriate use of burning of crop residues  
6.6.3.5 The presence of important habitats and species is periodically assessed and the stat us of rare, 
threatened or endangered species or habitats of high conservation value is documented.  
6.6.3.6 Appropriate conservation measures are included in the biodiversity management plan to protect rare, 
threatened or endangered species and habitats of high conservation value within production area to include:  
(a) retention of riparian and wetland habitats  
(b) retention protection of veteran trees  
(c) no -spray and no -burn areas within 10 m of areas of high conservation value  
6.6.3.7 Evidence of additional conservation measures to encourage wildlife and restore degraded natural 
ecosystems including:  
(a) R estoration of degraded natural habitats within 50 m of production areas  
(b) Use of biological controls in crop management  
6.6.4 Ecosystem functions and services within the area of production  
Criterion: The ecosystem functions and services within the area of production should  be maintained or 
enhanced at the landscape level.  
Indicators  
6.6.4.1 Where a project is likely to adversely impact ecosystem services, evidence that the operator conducts 
a systema tic review to identify priority ecosystem services, i.e.: (i) those services on which project operations  
xviii © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 are most likely to have an impact and, therefore, which result in adverse impacts to Affected Communities; 
and/or (ii) those services on which the proj ect is directly dependent for its operations (e.g., water).  
6.6.4.2 Evidence of reasonable effort to avoid adverse impacts on priority ecosystem services of relevance to 
Affected Communities and where these impacts are unavoidable, the operator minimizes them and implements 
mitigation measures that aim to maintain the value and functionality of priority services.  
6.6.4.3 With respect to impacts on priority ecosystem services on which the project depends, evidence that 
operators minimize impacts on ecosyst em services and implement measures that increase resource efficiency 
of their operations.  
6.6.4.4 Evidence that Affected Communities likely to be impacted participate in the determination of priority 
ecosystem services in accordance with the stakeholder e ngagement process.  
6.6.4.5 If evidence exists that the operation will directly affect ecosystem functions and services, the operator 
provides objective evidence demonstrating that there is in place a biodiversity management plan to ensure that 
the operati on(s) effectively maintains or enhances the ecosystem functions and services identified both inside, 
and outside the production site(s).  
NOTE The management practices in the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) may include:  
(a) For ecosystem f unctions: the creation or maintenance and protection of areas where natural regeneration 
processes are allowed to take place, and where populations of native plants and animals can breed, feed and 
find refuge.  
(b) For ecosystem services:  
(i) Actions to c ontrol and minimize disturbance to water quality and water flows e.g. the creation or protection of 
riparian buffer zones of natural vegetation, to help control physical events such as floods or the spread of 
diseases, and the maintenance of natural vegeta tion in important water catchments, especially steep slopes.  
(ii) Actions to control and minimize soil disturbance, erosion and compaction including the avoidance of land 
clearance on sensitive or highly erodible soils, especially on steep slopes, and pos itive soil restoration measures 
where appropriate.  
(iii) Actions to minimize the risk of fire and the effects of wind erosion e.g. maintenance of appropriate natural 
barriers.  
(iv) Protection and maintenance of areas of natural vegetation where local pop ulations can maintain a 
sustainable harvest of those natural goods e.g. Non Timber Forest Products (NTFPs) which have been identified 
as important to their livelihoods.  
6.6.4.6 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that continuous monitor ing and measures 
implemented through their ESMP to maintain and enhance ecosystem functions and services are effective.  
6.6.5 Buffer zones  
Criterion: operators should  protect, restore or create buffer zones.  
Indicators  
6.6.5.1 The operator provides obj ective evidence demonstrating that buffer zones are protected, restored or 
created within the site(s) of her/his/its bioenergy operation(s) around areas with conservation values of local, 
regional or global importance.  
6.6.5.2 The operator provides object ive evidence demonstrating that buffer zones are effective in mitigating 
potential negative impacts of the operations on areas that are contiguous to the operation site and, within the 
operation site, on any area containing conservation value(s) of local, regional or global importance.   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xix 
  6.6.5.3 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that buffer zones remain unused for economic 
operation(s).  
NOTE Buffer Zones may be managed in order to contribute to the sustained supply of environmental goods and 
services, in line with their protective function.  
6.6.6 Ecological corridors  
Criterion: Ecological corridors should  be protected, restored or creat ed to minimize fragmentation of habitats.  
Indicators  
6.6.6.1 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that ecological corridors within the production 
site(s) have been identified.  
6.6.6.2 Evidence demonstrating that existing ecological cor ridors within the production site(s) are set -aside and 
protected with appropriate buffer zones.  
6.6.6.3 Evidence demonstrating that, where there is the risk that operation(s) could increase the fragmentation 
of surrounding ecosystems, the spatial layout o f the operation(s) is adjusted to not cause any additional 
fragmentation and to maintain connectivity of ecosystems through the creation of ecological corridors within the 
operation(s).  
6.6.6.4 Evidence that specific measures are implemented to establish ecological corridors that facilitate the 
movement of wildlife in areas surrounding the site(s) of operation(s).  
6.6.6.5 Indicator: New ecological corridors are created within the operation site if it is surrounded by areas 
containing wildlife and there is evidence that such corridors would improve connectivity.  
6.6.6.6 Indicator: Ecological corridors, which were destroyed and for which the operator is directly accountable, 
have been restored eff ectively.  
6.6.6.7 Indicator: Ecological corridor(s) are effective in protecting, maintaining and/or enhancing the 
environmental aspect for which they were established.  
6.6.7 Invasive alien species  
Criterion: operators should  prevent invasive species fro m invading areas outside the operation site.  
 Indicators  
6.6.7.1 The operator complies with applicable laws and regulations regarding the cultivation, handling and use 
of genetically modified organisms, non -native crops and nationally recognised alien and  invasive species or 
which has been analysed or recorded (e.g. in the Global Invasive Species Database) (even if not prohibited in 
the country of operation) as highly invasive under similar conditions (climate, local ecosystems, soil types, etc.). 
In the a bsence of national law, compliance with requirements from a relevant national authority  
6.6.7.2 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that a Weed Risk Assessment has been 
undertaken analyzing each species cultivated, used, or otherwise ha ndled in the operation(s) of the operator to 
identify the potential threat of invasion.  
6.6.7.3 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that the species used in the operation(s) have 
no or low risk of invasion in similar conditions.  
6.6.7. 4 If no evidence exists demonstrating that the species used have no or low risk of invasion in similar 
conditions, the operator provides objective evidence demonstrating implementation of applicable international 
or government approved guidelines that exis t in the country or region of the operation(s).   
xx © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 6.6.7.5 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that specific measures are implemented which 
prevent and mitigate the risk of invasion during cultivation, harvesting, processing, transport and  trade by among 
other things containing propagules in an appropriate manner.  
6.6.7.6 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that continuous monitoring is undertaken to 
detect any invasion outside the operation site, of species cultivated, used or otherwise handled by the bioenergy 
operation(s).  
6.6.7.7 Evidence that the operator has established a management plan, which includes cultivation practices that 
minimize the risks of invasion, immediate mitigation actions (eradication, containment  or management) in case 
of escape of a plant species outside the operation site (possibly through the provision of a specific fund), as well 
as a monitoring system that checks for escapes and the presence of pests and pathogens outside the operation 
site.  
6.6.7.8 Rare, threatened or vulnerable ecosystems and species are protected  
6.6.7.9 Optimize the use, handling, storage and disposal of fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, fuels and other 
chemicals from an environmental perspective.  
6.6.7.10 Evaluation  of consequences of non -native crops.  
6.6.7.11 Evidence of the adoption of safeguards to avoid potential risks associated with the use of GMO and 
alien species.  
6.7 Soil management  
Principle: To maintain and replenish long -term soil health, fertility an d productivity.  
6.7.1 Soil management plan  
Criterion: A soil management plan, which aims to maintain and protect soil health, quality and productivity and 
reverse soil degradation, should  be developed and implemented.  
Indicators  
6.7.1.1 The operator has developed a soil management plan, or has implemented a soil management plan 
approved by a local authority, with applicable abatement measures; and ongoing status is monitored at 
appropriate intervals.  
6.7.1.2  The operator has provided mea sures of the quality and productivity of soils at the site and local level, 
including those for salinization, compaction, contamination, water holding capacity and retention of organic 
carbon content.  
6.7.1.3 The operator provides evidence that the use of  agrarian and forestry residual products, including 
lignocellulosic material, is not at the expense of long -term soil stability and organic matter content.  
6.7.1.4 The operator provides evidence of implementing measures to improve soil health, such as Con servation 
Agriculture practices as defined by the FAO  
6.7.1.5 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that the Soil Management Plan is based on 
continuous monitoring (e.g. at minimum once per season and once per crop rotation, etc.) of phys ical, chemical, 
organic and biological properties of the soils and other related factors (e.g. rainfall, water availability, run -off and 
other conditions, climatic conditions, size and layout of the production area, etc.) in and around the production 
area of the operation(s) of the operator, as collected through the impact assessment studies or other equivalent 
source.  
6.7.2 Soil erosion  
Criterion: Practices that minimize and control erosion and degradation of soils should  be used.   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xxi 
  Indicators  
6.7.2.1 Evidence of maps indicating areas of fragile soils.  
6.7.2.2 The operator has identified local soil erosion forces (rainfall, runoff and/or wind) and all parameters of 
agronomic (soil erodibility, etc.), physical/topological (e.g., field slope) and/or climat ic conditions that affect soil 
loss.  
6.7.2.3 Indicator: The operator’s soil management plan encompasses engineering and technical measures to 
address soil loss.  
6.7.2.4 The operator provides objective evidence demonstrating implementation of practices to  reduce or avoid 
soil erosion and compaction, and to maintain or improve soil organic matter.  
6.7.2.5 Mitigation measures are in place  
6.7.2.6 Tillage practises (season/no/low/high)  
6.7.2.7 A management strategy should exist for plantings on slopes abov e a certain limit (needs to be soil and 
climate specific).  
6.7.2.8 A management strategy should be in place for other fragile and problem soils (e.g. sandy, low organic 
matter, acid sulfate soils)  
6.7.2.9 Presence of road maintenance programme.  
6.7.3 So il productivity and fertility  
Criterion: Soil productivity and fertility should  be maintained or improved with due regard for soil structure and 
stability, organic matter and nutrient content.  
Indicators  
6.7.3.1 Productivity issues are specified in the soil management plan.  
6.7.3.2 Evidence that the soil management plan reviews erosion risk, sets out a strategy for protecting high -risk 
areas, and assesses soil structure to identify impediments to rooting and crop  water use.  
6.7.3.3 Rotation period with an integrated plant nutrition approach and soil nutrient compensation (indicator)  
6.7.3.4 Analysis of topsoil nutrient status at 5 yearly intervals following recommended sampling and analysis 
methods. Should inclu de P, K, N and pH status.  
6.7.3.5 Use of a farm nutrient management plan, which details fertilizer and manure management principles – 
including no spread zones (to protect water bodies), soil nutrient status, crop requirements and inputs of 
nutrients in manure.  
6.7.3.6 Evidence of checks on fertilizer spreaders to ensure evenness of spread, within acceptable limits.  
6.7.3.7 Proportion of biomass harvested  
6.7.3.8 Compensatory measures for soil carbon losses  
6.7.3.9 Productivity over time  
6.7.3.10 Monitoring data  
6.7.3.11  Evidence of f ollowing recommendations of the agroecological zoning   
xxii © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 6.7.3.12 Changes in productivity on arable land.  
6.7.4 Soil physical status  
Criterion: Soil physical status should  be maintained.  
Indicators  
6.7.4.1 Physical status issues are specified in the soil  management plan.  
6.7.4.2 Where the Soil Impact Assessment demonstrated that the soil conditions were already optimal, the 
operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that implementation of Soil Management Plan effectively 
prevents (and if necessar y mitigates) alteration of physical, chemical and/or biological soil properties including 
soil organic matter. Where the Soil Impact Assessment demonstrated that the soil conditions were below 
optimal, the operator provides objective evidence demonstrating  that implementation of Soil Management Plan 
effectively reverts soil degradation and restores physical, chemical and/or biological soil properties to optimal 
levels.  
6.7.4.3 Tillage practices (season/no/low/high).  
6.7.4.4 Equipment and technique used.  
6.7.4.5 Soil characteristics.  
6.7.4.6 Monitoring data.  
6.7.5 Soil chemical and biological status  
Criterion: Soil chemical and biological status should  be managed   
Indicators  
6.7.5.1 Optimize the use, handling, storage and disposal of fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides, fuels and other 
chemicals from an environmental perspective.  
6.7.5.2 The management system is based on an integrated system of pest control.  
6.7.5.3 The use of restr icted pesticides is controlled and administration is kept up to date. Stock is kept in a 
separate and locked storage.  
6.7.5.5 Biological control agents and organic pesticides, as well as traditional knowledge and skills regarding 
alternatively non -chemica l pest control have to be identified and implemented in the agricultural management 
system.  
6.7.6 Land conservation and rehabilitation  
Criterion: The agriculture management should  be aimed at land conservation and rehabilitation.  
Indicators  
6.7.6.1 Land degradation is surveyed on a regular basis.  
6.7.6.2 Land and conservation areas at risk are identified and the policy and management measures are 
formulated.  
6.7.6.3 The general planning, management and utilization of land resources and the preservation of soil fertility 
are defined and executed.  
6.8 Water management   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xxiii 
  Principle: To maintain or enhance the quality and quantity of surface and ground water resources, and  respect 
prior formal or customary water rights.  
6.8.1 Water rights  
Criterion: Operators should  respect the existing water rights of local and indigenous communities.  
Indicators  
6.8.1.1 Evidence that the operation(s) do not negatively affect (i.e. redu ce and/or alter in quality or quantity) the 
water supply to communities which rely on the same water resource(s). This usually includes objective evidence:  
(a) identifying the communities which rely on the same water resource(s) as operation(s);  
(b) anal yzing the water supply to communities which rely on the same water resource(s);  
(c) analyzing whether the water supply to communities which rely on the same water resource(s) is affected in 
quality or quantity by operation(s);  
(d) ensuring use of water for operations should  not be at the expense of the water needed by the communities 
that rely on the same water source(s) for subsistence.  
6.8.1.2 Evidence of evaluation of the actual and potential impacts of operation(s) on the a vailability of water 
resource(s) within the local community.  
6.8.1.3 If the screening exercise indicated any significant potential impacts of operations on water availability 
within the local community and ecosystems, the operator provides objective evide nce demonstrating that a 
water rights impact assessment has been completed and any actual or potential negative impacts of 
operation(s) on the availability of water resource(s) within the local community have been mitigated.  
6.8.1.4 Evidence demonstrating  continuous monitoring of the actual and potential impacts of bioenergy 
operation(s) on the availability of water resource(s) within the local community.  
6.8.1.5 Evidence that the use of the water resource(s) for operation(s) is not legitimately disputed by 
stakeholders who rely on the same water resource(s).  
6.8.1.6 Evidence that the use of the water resource(s) for operation(s) has been agreed with free, prior and 
informed consent by stakeholders who rely on the same water resource(s).  
6.8.1.7 Evidence  that the use of the water resource(s) for operation(s) has been consulted with water regulatory 
authorities, local water experts, community members, and indigenous peoples which relate to and/or rely on the 
same water resource(s) to:  
(a) identify all sta keholders who rely on the same water resource(s);  
(b) identify formal water rights relating to the same water resource(s);  
(c) identify customary water rights relating to the same water resource(s);  
(d) evaluate the actual and potential impacts of opera tion(s) on the same water resource(s);  
(e) evaluate and identify measures to fully mitigate the actual and potential impacts of operation(s) on the same 
water resource(s);  
(f) evaluate and identify measures to fully protect the formal or customary water rights to the same water 
resource(s) and to prevent infringement and/or compromising of such rights;  
(g) ensure that the formal or customary water rights to the same water resource(s) are only modified based on 
Free, Prior and Informed Consent of stakehol ders relating to and/or relying on the same water resource(s);   
xxiv © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 (h) ensure that there is priority to human consumption (indicator); and  
(i) evaluate and identify measures to continuously monitor and ensure comprehensive implementation of the 
requirements detailed in indicator 6.8.1.7 as listed above.  
6.8.1.8 Evidence that the outcomes and agreements resulting from the consultation process detailed under 
indicator  
6.8.1.7 are comprehensively and fully implemented.  
6.8.1.9 Supporting documents of water rights and permissions on overall process and irrigation water 
withdrawal.  
6.8.2 Water management plan  
Criterion: Water resources are managed at the local and/or site level to protect water quality and quantity over 
time and  taking the watershed into account.  
Indicators  
6.8.2.1 The source, quantity and quality of water withdrawal are identified.  
6.8.2.2 Evidence demonstrating that valid abstraction licences or permits have been obtained.  
6.8.2.3 The operator has developed  and implemented a water management plan that includes measurements 
and monitoring.  
6.8.2.4 The operator has implemented measures to address the impacts of water withdrawal on the quality of 
water resources.  
6.8.2.5 The operator has implemented measures to address the availability of surface or groundwater resources 
in water -scarce countries.  
6.8.2.6 The operator’s water management plan addresses riparian areas and other areas which receive direct 
water run -off from the area of operation.  
6.8.2.7 Evidence that the water management plan is available to the public unless this is limited by national law 
or international agreements on intellectual property.  
6.8.2.8 Evidence that the water management plan is consistent with local conditions of rainfall , water storage, 
water distribution and water treatment.  
6.8.2.9 Evidence demonstrating that the water management plan is consistent with any other regional or local 
water management plans.  
6.8.2.10 Evidence that any negative impacts resulting directly o r indirectly from the operation(s) on the water 
resources of the neighbouring areas are mitigated fully.  
6.8.2.11 Evidence that the water management plan is reviewed and revised periodically (i.e. at least annually) 
to assess its effectiveness at achievin g its stated objectives.  
6.8.2.12 Evidence that best practices measures for reusing or recycling of waste water have been identified and 
are implemented over time.  
6.8.2.13 Evidence that the water management plan uses solutions that lower the risk for im paired water quality.  
6.8.2.14 Evidence that the water management plan uses solutions that lower the risk for exhaustion and overuse 
of regional water resources.   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xxv 
  6.8.2.15 Evidence that the water management plan contains measures to protect water courses and wetlands, 
including maintaining and restoring appropriate riparian buffer zones.  
6.8.2.16 Evidence demonstrating that the water management plan contains measures to optimize the use, 
handling, storage and disposal of fertilizers, herbicides, pesticide s, fuels and other chemicals from an 
environmental perspective.  
6.8.2.17 Evidence demonstrating that the water management plan contains measures to avoid depletion of 
surface or groundwater resources beyond replenishment capacities.  
6.8.2.18 Evidence dem onstrating that the water management plan contains measures to contribute to the 
enhancement or maintaining of the quality of surface or groundwater resources.  
6.8.2.19 The operator has identified the quantity and quality of final effluents to the receivi ng water body or 
treatment plant.  
6.8.2.20 Where freshwater intensive operations are established in drought prone areas or where irrigated crops 
are used in drought prone areas, the operator provides objective evidence demonstrating that best available 
practices are used, and that measures are implemented to mitigate changes in water quantity and quality.  
6.8.2.21 In drought -prone areas, irrigation is not used unless the operator can demonstrate the existence of 
implemented mitigation measures that ensure  the level of water resources used remains stable.  
6.8.2.22 Evidence that the use of water from natural water bodies does not result in a permanent change in its 
natural course or change the physical, chemical or biological equilibrium the water body had before the 
operation(s) started.  
6.8.2.23 Evidence that efficiency of water use has improved over time through implementation measures to 
conserve water.  
6.8.2.24 Evidence that critical aquifer recharge areas, replenishment capacities of local water tabl es, 
watercourses, and ecosystem needs have been identified and evaluated.  
6.8.2.25 Evidence that any potential negative impacts of bioenergy operation(s) on local water tables, 
watercourses, and ecosystem needs have been mitigated.  
6.8.2.26 Evidence that the use and share of water resources has been agreed upon with local experts and the 
community, and that all water user committees have been consulted.  
6.8.3 Water quality  
Criterion: Project operations should  contribute to the enhancement o r maintaining of the quality of the surface 
and groundwater resources.  
Indicators  
6.8.3.1 Evidence that bio -energy is not produced or processed in critical aquifer recharge areas, without official 
authorization from relevant legal authorities.  
6.8.3.2 Evidence of availability of best practices to maintain or enhance the quality of water resources to their 
optimal level are implemented in the bio -energy operations to ensure sustained water supply, ecosystem 
functioning and ecological services.  
6.8.3.3 Evidence that sufficient precautions have been taken to contain effluents from the bio -energy 
operation(s) and prevent contamination of water resources. This includes treatment and/or recycling of waste 
water and the establishment of buffer zones between th e operation site and surface or ground water resources.  
6.8.3.4 Evidence that emergency plans and measures are in place, known and implemented in the operation(s) 
in case accidental contamination of water resources is identified.   
xxvi © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 6.8.3.5 For bio -energy o perations where degradation of water resources existed before said operation was 
accepted, the bio -energy operator provides objective evidence of mitigation measures to be implemented to 
reverse the degradation of water resources and that the bio -energy op erator has taken part in projects to 
improve water quality at the watershed level.  
6.8.3.6 Evidence that waste water or runoff with organic or mineral contaminants are treated, recycled or 
properly disposed of.  
6.8.3.7 Where the screening exercise has tr iggered the need for a Water Assessment, the bio -energy operator 
provides objective evidence that studies have been conducted to determine the optimal water quality level 
required to sustain the system, taking into account local, climatic, hydrologic and e cologic conditions.  
6.8.4 Fresh water supply  
Criterion : The agriculture management should  be aimed at the insurance of freshwater supply and quality for 
sustainable food production and sustainable rural development.  
Indicators  
6.8.4.1 Efficiency and pr oductivity of agricultural water use for better utilization of limited water resources has 
to increase.  
6.8.4.2 Monitoring of the irrigation performance.  
6.8.4.3 Proper disposal of sewage and waste from the farm and human settlements and of manure produc es 
by intensive life stock breeding.  
6.8.4.4 Water quality has to be monitored on biological, physical and chemical quality.  
6.8.4.5 Measures have to be taken to minimize soil run -off and sedimentation.  
6.8.4.6 Irrigation has to be planned in a long ter m program.  
6.8.4.7 Long term strategies and implementation program have to be developed on water use under scarce 
conditions.  
6.8.4.8 Waste water re -use has to be part of the agriculture management system.  
6.9 Climate change, mitigation and adaptation  
Principle : To contribute to the mitigation of and the adaptation to the detrimental effects of climate change.  
6.9.1 Climate change adaptation  
Criterion: Farmers should  take note of current and predicted climatic changes and their potential impacts on 
their farming activities, and to implement adaptation strategies to increase their resilience and reduce their 
vulnerability to climatic changes.  
Indicator  
6.9.1.1 The effects of climate change on current farming practices are recognized and, where possible, are 
adapted to cope with predicted climate change impacts. Adaptation measures to be considered include:  
(a) the more efficient use of water on the farm (e.g. i mproving irrigation efficiency, rainwater tanks, water reuse 
and intercropping to maximize uptake of water and crop productivity);  
(b) wetland and catchment/riparian restoration to increase water quantity and quality;   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xxvii 
  (c) removal of alien plant infestati ons to increase water flow;  
(d) reducing stocking rates to reduce grazing pressure on rangelands;  
(e) planting drought resistant crops;  
(f) building soil health (see 6.7);  
(g) avoiding bare fallows to prevent erosion and soil water loss.  
NOTE: These adaptation measures fit suitably with sustainable farm management practices as they ensure the 
wise use of agricultural resources and the restoration and protection of ecosystem health. These practices also 
contribute to reducing the farm’s gre enhouse gas emissions and thus assist in mitigating climate change itself.  
6.9.2 Climate change mitigation  
Criterion: Operator should  adopt strategies which contribute to climate change mitigation in their operations.  
Indicator  
6.9.2.1 The need for cli mate change mitigation and energy efficiency is recognized and, where possible, 
implemented.  
More indicators -  
6.10 Crop husbandry and farm management  
Principle : To develop and implement policies and procedures on input procurement, use/ application, sto rage 
and disposal of unwanted inputs and their residues.  
Criterion: The operator should  ensure that the chemical input procured are in compliance with applicable laws 
and regulations (both local and international) in view of, registration, banned substanc es and transportation both 
in the country of origin and country of use.  
Indicators  
6.10.1 The operator should  ensure that all stores located away from water sources in compliance with existing 
legislations and regulations. The stores should  be lockable. The operator should  document and maintain a stock 
control management plan. Within the store, there should  be adequately stocked first aid facility and availability 
of well -known spillage and emergency response procedures.  
6.10.2 The farm should  have the necessary equipment for carrying out activities such as mixing and applying 
agrochemicals. Procedures should  be developed and implemented concerning calibration, repair and 
maintenance of equipment and records maintained.  
6.11 Pesticide use and management  
Principle: To promote the use of environmentally friendly non -chemical methods of pest management and 
strive to avoid the use of chemical pesticides.  
Criterion: The operator should  have an integrated pest management programme based on ecologic al principles 
for the control of harmful pests (insects, plants, animals and microbes). The programme should  give priority to 
the use of physical, mechanical, cultural and biological control methods, and the least possible use of 
agrochemicals. The program  should  include non -chemical Pest monitoring, scouting, Record of non -chemical 
practices re -entry intervals and sound disposal of pesticide containers  
6.11.1  The operator should  have a plan for eliminating the use of all endocrine disruptions and cholinest erase 
inhibiting substances, carcinogenic and mutagenic causing substances WHO Class 1a and 1b, WHO class II  
xxviii  © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 and all highly hazardous chemical substances under the Stockholm convention on persistent organic pollutants 
(Pops Convention)  
6.11.2 The operator  should  ensure that dosage/rates, re -entry periods and postharvest intervals are strictly 
observed. Measures should  be put in place to ensure that this information is documented and publicly 
communicated.  
6.11.3 The operator should  ensure all employees en gaged in any chemical application are trained on safe use 
of chemicals; provided with adequate personal protective equipment and trained on their safe usage.  
6.12 Energy efficiency  
Principle : To ensure efficient use of energy.  
Criterion: The operator should  determine and document the energy demand by the enterprise for developing 
an energy efficiency plan with goals and implementation activities towards increased efficiency, reduced 
dependency on non -renewable sources and increased use of renewable energy.  The energy audit  plan should 
be done in accordance to the existing laws and regulations.   
Indicator  
6.12.1 Record should  be maintained on all aspects of energy management  
Energy act refer especially renewable act.  
6.13 Waste and pollution management  
Principle : To ensure the responsible management of wastes and pollutants.  
Criterion: The operator should  identify and document all elements of waste and pollutants generated by the 
enterprise. The operator should  develop and implement an integrated waste man agement programme based 
on the concept of the waste management hierarchy, that is: avoidance, reuse, recycling and reprocessing, waste 
treatment and waste disposal, and ensuring proper management of unavoidable pollution and waste, especially 
as regards th e disposal of obsolete pesticides and chemicals.  
Indicator  
6.13.1 The operator should  classify all the wastes and pollutants generated by the enterprise and adopt best 
practices for each class. To the extent possible restrain from the use of open waste d umps and open -air burning 
of waste.  
Waste management should be done by licenced handlers - EMCA   
6.14 Handling and segregation of certified products  
Principle : To ensure the integrity of certified products throughout the phases of handling, storage, proce ssing 
and transport.  
6.14.1 Handling of certified products  
Criterion: The operator should  keep records of all inputs, sales and deliveries and have up -to-date certificates 
from each supplier. If certified ingredients are imported, the operator should  have transaction certificates for 
each consignment he/she has received, or some other method of proving traceability.  
Indicators   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xxix 
  6.14.1.1 The integrity of certified products should  be ensured throughout the phases of post -harvest handling, 
storage, processi ng and transport.  
 6.14.1.2  All certified products should  be clearly identifiable as certified.  
6.14.1.3 The operator should  ensure that certified products do not come into contact with chemical cleaning 
materials and methods.  
6.14.1.4 In cases where the operator is not the actual producer of the product the operator should  endeavour 
to source goods and services ethically from suppliers whose practices are consistent with this standard. Written 
contractual arrangements should  be put in p lace in accordance with existing national and/or international laws. 
The contract should  include but not limited to; mutually agreed payment terms and arbitration conditions.  
6.14.1.5 The operator should  ensure that relevant market information, quality sp ecification, pricing information 
is shared with all contracted value chain actors  
6.14.2 Segregation of certified and uncertified products  
Criterion : The operator should  establish a system for avoiding the mixing of certified products with non -certified 
products in its facilities, including harvesting, handling, storage, processing and packaging of products, as well 
as transportation.  
Indicators  
6.14.2.1 All transactions involving certified products are recorded.  
6.14.2.2 Products leaving the farm are duly identified and accompanied with the relevant documentation 
indicating a certified farm as origin.  
6.14.2.3 Evidence of a system for separation . 
 
Annex A 
Product diversification  
Millers should diversify their production to include the following:  
a) Brown/mill white sugar  
b) Refined white sugar  
c) Sugar cane jaggery  
d) Raw cane sugar  
e) Fortified sugar  
f) Icing sugar  
g) Molasses  
h) Bagasse  
i) Carbonized briquettes for household  
j) Non-carbonized briquettes for industrial  
k) Ethanol  
l) Co-generation  
m) Filter mud  
n) Fly ash  
o) Fibre boards   
xxx © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 p) Pulp and paper   
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xxxi 
  Annex  B 
(informative)  
Relevant legislations  
The following is a list of legislations that apply to the sugar industry:  
I. The Constitution of Kenya, 2010  
II. The Agriculture, Fisheries and Food Authority Act (AFFA) 2013 (Revised , 2016).  
III. The Crops Act, 2013.  
IV. Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization Act, 2013.  
V. The Employment Act, Cap. 226.  
VI. The Environmental Management and Coordination Act, 1999.  
VII. Occupational Safety and Health Act, 2007  
VIII. Work Injury Benefits Act, 2007.  
IX. The Food, Dr ugs and Chemical Substances Act, Cap. 254.  
X. The Public Health Act, Cap. 242.  
XI. The Irrigation Act, Cap. 347.  
XII. The Lakes and Rivers Act, Cap. 409.  
XIII. The National Hospital Insurance Fund Act, Cap. 255.  
XIV. The National Social Security Fund Act, Cap. 258.  
XV. The Physical  Planning Act, 1996.  
XVI. The Regulation of Wages and Conditions of Employment Act, (ROWA)  Cap. 229.  
XVII.  The Standards Act, Cap. 496.  
XVIII.  The Trade Disputes Act, Cap. 234.  
XIX. The Children’s Act, 2001.  
XX. The Sexual Offences Act,  
XXI. The Trade Union Act, Cap. 233.  
XXII.  The Water Ac t, Cap. 372.  
XXIII.  Seeds and Plant Varieties Act, Cap. 326.  
XXIV.  The Pest Control Products Act, Cap. 346.  
XXV.  The Plant Protection Act  
XXVI.  Weights and Measures Act, Cap 513  
XXVII.  Land Act No. 6 of 2012   
xxxii © KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  
 XXVIII.  The Fertilizers and Animal Foodstuffs Act, Cap 345  
XXIX.  Factories and Other Places of Works Act, Cap 514  
XXX.  Co-operative Societies  Act Cap 490  
XXXI.  The Crops (Sugar) (General) Regulations, 2020  
XXXII.  The Crops (Import, Export and By -products) Regulations, 2020  
XXXIII.  The Labour Institutions Act No. 12 of 2007  
XXXIV.  The Labor Relations Act No. 14 of 2007  
XXXV.  Retirement Benefit Act No.3 1997  
.  
© KEBS 2022  – All rights reserved  xxxiii  
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