What does the term "personal protective equipment" refer to in animal research?

The term "personal protective equipment" specifically refers to items worn to prevent exposure to hazards. In the context of animal research, PPE is crucial for ensuring the safety and health of personnel who handle animals, as it helps mitigate risks associated with biological, chemical, or physical hazards that may be present in the laboratory environment.

Personal protective equipment can include gloves, lab coats, masks, goggles, and face shields, each designed to protect against specific risks, such as zoonotic diseases, allergens, or chemical exposure. By wearing appropriate PPE, researchers can minimize their risk of injury or illness, thereby creating a safer working environment.

While comfort can be a consideration in the design of work clothing, it is not the primary function of PPE. Tools used for animal handling are functional items that assist in working with animals, while medications given to animals address their health needs but do not relate to protecting the personnel involved in the research. Thus, the correct interpretation of personal protective equipment directly aligns with the need to safeguard individuals from workplace hazards.