Which hazard requires the use of personal protective equipment as prevention?

The need for personal protective equipment (PPE) arises primarily from biological infectious hazards, which include exposure to pathogens such as viruses, bacteria, and other microorganisms that can lead to diseases. In environments where individuals are at risk of coming into contact with these infectious agents, PPE is essential for safeguarding health. This can include items like gloves, masks, gowns, and eye protection, all designed to create a barrier between the worker and the infectious material.

Psycho-social hazards generally pertain to mental health and wellbeing issues that arise from workplace dynamics and environment but do not typically require physical protective equipment. Mechanical hazards involve risks associated with machinery and physical injuries; while protective gear may offer some safety, it is not specifically categorized as PPE in the same way as equipment used for infectious risks. Environmental hazards can relate to factors such as air quality or chemical exposure but often involve general safety measures rather than specifically PPE aimed at biological risks. This makes biological infectious hazards uniquely aligned with the necessity for personal protective equipment.