In the workplace known as the Purdue University Department of Chemistry we concern ourselves with PPE used in many circumstances not ordinarily found in the home of course. Chemical resistant gloves, aprons, lab coats, dust masks, goggles, face shields, for example. Using PPE is only one element in a complete safety program. A variety of strategies and safeguards are necessary to maintain a safe and healthy work environment. These include required other safety equipment and engineering controls, standard operating procedures, and worker training.
Hazards exist in every workplace.
Controlling a hazard at its source is the first choice because this method eliminates it from the workplace altogether or isolates it from the worker. This approach as it applies to substance hazards would require substitution of a material with nonhazardous ones, isolation of hazards, addition of safety features to existing equipment, redesign of the work processes, or purchase of new equipment. Not entirely practical, of course. We prefer to continue inventing medicines, fuels, and other materials which we believe improve our world. PPE is used to reduce or minimize the exposure or contact to injurious physical, chemical or biological agents.