Which of the following is considered personal protective equipment?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is designed to protect the wearer from various hazards that may cause injury or illness in the workplace. Safety goggles are specifically classified as PPE because they provide eye protection against flying debris, chemical splashes, and radiation hazards. They are essential in ensuring that workers can safely perform their tasks without the risk of eye injuries.

Other items listed, while important for overall safety and emergency preparedness, do not fall under the category of personal protective equipment. For example, a first aid kit is crucial for treating injuries after they occur, but it does not prevent injuries from happening in the first place. A fire extinguisher is vital for addressing fires, and emergency signal flares are used for signaling in emergencies, but neither item provides direct personal protection to the user. Thus, safety goggles are uniquely designed to protect the individual from specific hazards in their immediate work environment, making them the correct choice in this context.