Which personal protective equipment is essential when working with chemicals?

When working with chemicals, safety goggles and gloves are essential personal protective equipment (PPE) because they serve critical functions in protecting the body from harmful substances. Safety goggles are designed to shield the eyes from splashes, chemical vapors, and flying debris, significantly reducing the risk of eye injuries and irritation that can occur when working with hazardous materials. Gloves provide a barrier between the skin and chemicals, preventing skin contact that could lead to burns, rashes, or toxic absorption through the skin.

The proper use of safety goggles and gloves is a fundamental safety procedure that helps ensure the health and well-being of individuals in environments where chemicals are present. These protective measures are standard in many industries, including automotive, where workers frequently handle corrosive substances and solvents that pose health risks.

In contrast to the correct choice, other options like a baseball cap, regular clothing without any protection, or sunglasses do not provide necessary protection from chemical exposure. A baseball cap offers no coverage for the eyes or skin, while regular clothing may not protect against spills or splashes. Sunglasses may protect the eyes from sunlight but do not offer adequate protection against chemical hazards. Thus, safety goggles and gloves are clearly the best choices for ensuring safety when dealing with chemicals.