What is personal protective equipment (PPE)?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is specifically designed to minimize exposure to various hazards that can cause injury or illness in the workplace. This includes items such as gloves, masks, goggles, and protective clothing that shield workers from chemical spills, infectious agents, and other dangerous materials. The primary goal of PPE is to create a barrier between the individual and potential hazards, which is crucial in environments where exposure risks are heightened.

Understanding the role of PPE emphasizes its importance in maintaining safety standards and ensuring that individuals working in hazardous conditions are protected effectively. While uniforms and cleaning tools might serve important functions in a workplace, they do not specifically address the primary purpose of PPE, which is to provide a protective barrier against potential risks. First-aid supplies, although vital for responding to injuries and emergencies, do not prevent exposure to hazards in the first place. Thus, the correct definition of PPE focuses on minimizing exposure through its specific design and application.