PPE is used whenever ____ hazards that can do bodily harm through absorption, inhalation, or physical contact are present.

• A. hazards that can do bodily harm through absorption, inhalation, or physical contact is present
• B. hazards that can do bodily harm only through contact
• C. hazards that cause no risk
• D. hazards that require training

Answer: (A)

PPE is used whenever hazards that can cause bodily harm through absorption, inhalation, or physical contact are present. This means any danger that could affect the skin, lungs, eyes, or body surfaces, not just one specific route. PPE works to reduce exposure by matching the protection to the route of risk—gloves or protective clothing for skin absorption or contact, respirators for inhalation hazards, and eye or face protection for splashes or debris. The idea is to have protective gear in place whenever such hazards exist, because the presence of any of these exposure routes warrants protective measures.

The other options don’t fit as broadly. Hazards that only risk contact ignore inhalation or absorption routes; hazards that cause no risk aren’t present to begin with; and hazards that require training don’t by themselves indicate that protection is needed—protective equipment is tied to the actual presence of the hazard and its exposure routes.