Name one common type of personal protective equipment (PPE) used with hazardous materials.

Gloves are a common type of personal protective equipment (PPE) used when handling hazardous materials because they protect the hands from chemicals, biological agents, or other harmful substances. Proper glove selection is crucial, as different materials are needed for various hazards; for example, nitrile gloves are often chosen for chemical exposure, while cut-resistant gloves are used when dealing with sharp objects. The use of gloves is essential in preventing skin absorption of hazardous materials, ensuring that workers can engage in tasks with a reduced risk of injury or contamination.

Hard hats, safety shoes, and reflective vests, while important for overall safety, primarily protect against physical hazards, impacts, and visibility, rather than direct exposure to hazardous materials. Therefore, gloves represent a specifically targeted approach to safeguarding against chemical and biological hazards, making them a fundamental component of PPE in environments where such risks are present.