Which of the following is NOT a type of PPE?

The correct response identifies cooling vests as not being classified as personal protective equipment (PPE) in the conventional sense. While cooling vests are designed to help workers manage heat stress and provide comfort, they are not categorized as PPE, which primarily focuses on protecting workers from physical hazards that could result in injury or illness.

PPE encompasses items specifically engineered to safeguard individuals against various hazards. This includes gloves, which protect the hands from cuts, abrasions, and chemicals; ear protection devices, which shield hearing from loud noises; and hard hats, designed to prevent head injuries from falling objects or impacts. Each of these items plays a critical role in ensuring safety in environments where specific risks are present.

In summary, cooling vests serve a supportive function related to comfort and health but do not directly protect against physical hazards, distinguishing them from traditional PPE categories.