Which personal protective equipment is recommended when handling hazardous materials?

Safety goggles are recommended when handling hazardous materials because they provide essential eye protection from splashes, fumes, and particulate matter that may cause serious injury or irritation to the eyes. Unlike regular glasses, which may not offer a secure fit or proper coverage, safety goggles are specifically designed to create a seal around the eyes, preventing any hazardous substances from coming into contact with them. In laboratory settings where chemicals or biological materials are involved, this level of protection is crucial to ensure the safety of individuals working in those environments.

Other options, such as relying solely on gloves or suggesting that no equipment is necessary, overlook the importance of comprehensive personal protective equipment (PPE) protocols that include eye protection to minimize the risk of exposure to potentially harmful agents.