safety equipment

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 15, 2026

Quick Summary

Personal protective equipment (PPE) refers to devices, garments, or coverings worn to minimize exposure to hazards that could cause injury or illness. This can include items like respirators, helmets, face shields, boots, and gloves. PPE is crucial for workers in various professions, such as firefighters, who use complete sets of protective gear including boots, gloves, helmets, pants, coats, hoods, and safety vests. The use of PPE is also vital in situations involving chemical or oil-related incidents, and it has become increasingly relevant with the rise of single-use plastics like masks and gloves, particularly in healthcare settings.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

2 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

goggles
Safety goggles for workers first appeared in the 19th century but did not come into general use until well into the 20th century. Goggles are worn by those using power tools and blowtorches and by miners. Goggles required for welding protect from debris, heat, and…
Read More
Safety goggles for workers first appeared in the 19th century but did not come into general use until well into the 20th century. Goggles are worn by those using power tools and blowtorches and by miners. Goggles required for welding protect from debris, heat, and…
Read More

NASCAR
Developments in the second half of the 20th century
…was also responsible for mandating safety equipment in cars that, by 1970, had reached over 200 miles (320 km) per hour in nonrace conditions.
Read More
…was also responsible for mandating safety equipment in cars that, by 1970, had reached over 200 miles (320 km) per hour in nonrace conditions.
Read More