Which safety equipment is essential when dealing with potential hazardous leaks or spills?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is critical when responding to potential hazardous leaks or spills because it is specifically designed to protect individuals from exposure to hazardous substances. This equipment can include a variety of protective gear such as gloves, goggles, respirators, and specialized clothing, all tailored to prevent contact with harmful materials and to guard against inhalation of toxic vapors or dust.

Using standard gloves, cotton clothing, or simple face masks does not provide sufficient protection in hazardous environments. Standard gloves may not be resistant to chemicals, cotton clothing does not protect against spills or splashes, and simple face masks might not filter out harmful airborne particles or vapors effectively. Therefore, relying on properly fitted and suitable PPE is essential for ensuring the safety of workers in environments where hazardous materials are present.