Which of the following is a Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) item?

• A. Ventilation
• B. Hard hat
• C. Guard rails
• D. Lockout device

Answer: (B)

PPE is worn to create a barrier between hazards and the worker. A hard hat is PPE because it is worn on the head to protect against impacts, falling objects, and penetration hazards, and it can provide electrical insulation in some settings. Ventilation is an environmental control that improves air quality by moving or removing contaminants, not something worn. Guard rails are fixed safety barriers that prevent falls or restrict access, another form of hazard control rather than a wearable. A lockout device is used in energy-control procedures to prevent machinery from starting unexpectedly, not worn for protection.