Which items are commonly used as personal protective equipment in a chemistry laboratory?

• A. Safety glasses or goggles; lab coat; chemical-resistant gloves.
• B. Safety glasses or goggles; lab coat; but no gloves.
• C. Safety glasses or goggles; lab coat; chemical-resistant gloves; depending on task, face shield, respirator, and closed-toe shoes.
• D. No PPE.

Answer: (C)

Protecting eyes, skin, and breathing is the central idea behind PPE in a chemistry lab. The most appropriate set includes safety glasses or goggles to shield the eyes, a lab coat to protect skin and clothing from spills, and chemical-resistant gloves to prevent direct contact with hazardous substances. Some tasks or hazards require extra protection, so a face shield can be added for splashes, a respirator for inhalation hazards, and sturdy closed-toe shoes for foot protection. This combination covers the main exposure routes and adapts to different experiments. Choosing with too little protection—like skipping gloves or PPE entirely—risks exposure, which is why the more comprehensive option is the best choice.