Why is protective equipment important in handling hazardous substances?

Protective equipment is crucial when handling hazardous substances primarily because it serves as a barrier between the worker and harmful chemicals. These substances can pose significant health risks, including skin irritation, respiratory problems, or even long-term health consequences such as chronic illnesses or cancers. By using personal protective equipment (PPE), workers can significantly reduce their exposure to these dangers, which is essential for maintaining safety and health in the workplace.

While enhancing work efficiency or standardizing work attire can be beneficial in other contexts, these aspects do not address the primary concern of safety when handling hazardous materials. Additionally, the notion that protective equipment reduces the need for training is misleading, as proper training is always necessary to ensure that workers understand how to use PPE effectively and recognize potential hazards.