What does Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refer to?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) encompasses specialized clothing and equipment designed to safeguard individuals from exposure to various hazards. This includes physical, chemical, biological, or radiological hazards that could cause injury or illness. Examples of PPE include gloves, masks, gowns, face shields, and goggles, which are essential in ensuring the safety and health of individuals, particularly in environments like detention facilities where the risk of exposure to infectious agents can be elevated.

In the context of infection control and workplace safety, PPE serves as a critical barrier that helps prevent the transmission of pathogens or harmful substances. The focus is on protection, which is central to the definition of PPE, distinguishing it from other methods of maintaining health and safety in the workplace, such as just handwashing or getting vaccinated.

Thus, the correct answer accurately reflects the primary purpose of PPE, which is to provide direct protection to the user against potential hazards they may encounter.