Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is to be worn when working with any hazardous chemicals or compounds. Which of these is NOT PPE?

• A. Gloves
• B. Sandals
• C. Aprons or lab coats
• D. Safety glasses

Answer: (B)

Protective equipment is meant to shield you from chemical hazards by covering skin and preventing contact. For chemical work, gloves protect the hands, a lab coat or apron shields the body and clothing, and safety glasses guard the eyes from splashes and debris. Foot protection is also important, and footwear should be closed-toe and chemical-resistant; sandals leave toes exposed, offer little to no chemical protection, and can allow spills to reach the skin and feet. That’s why sandals don’t meet PPE requirements in this context. The other items provide actual protective functions, while sandals do not.