Oklahoma Locksmith Practice Exam

Personal protective equipment should be used to protect employees from workplace hazards when:

1. Hazards cannot be eliminated with engineering or workplace controls

2. Employees are on break

3. Hazards are visible

4. Only in confined spaces

The correct answer is: Hazards cannot be eliminated with engineering or workplace controls

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is an essential component in ensuring the safety and well-being of employees in various work environments, especially when they are exposed to certain hazards. The statement that hazards cannot be eliminated with engineering or workplace controls clarifies the importance of using PPE as a last line of defense. In many situations, workplace hazards can be effectively addressed through engineering controls, such as redesigning equipment or improving ventilation, and administrative controls, such as training and safety procedures. However, in cases where these measures are insufficient to eliminate the risk—such as when hazards are inherent to the task at hand or when it's impractical to change the environment—PPE becomes crucial. It provides a barrier between the worker and the hazard, helping to reduce the risk of injury or illness. The other options do not adequately represent the primary purpose of PPE usage. For instance, using PPE only during breaks or when hazards are visible does not establish a consistent safety standard, as risks can be present at any time. Additionally, restricting PPE usage solely to confined spaces limits its pivotal role in protecting workers in a broader range of situations.