Final answer:
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) is gear worn to guard against physical hazards in the workplace, provided at no charge by the employer, as required by OSHA standards. It is essential for both healthcare personnel and workers in various industries to protect themselves from occupational risks.
Step-by-step explanation:
The protective gear worn to guard against physical hazards and provided by the employer at no charge is called Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). This includes items such as safety helmets, gloves, eye protection, high-visibility clothing, safety footwear, and safety harnesses. It is not only critical for medical personnel dealing with infectious diseases but also for workers in various industries like construction and agriculture where physical risks are prevalent. Employers are required to provide PPE to employees as per Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards, which mandate employers to ensure a safe working environment by first trying to eliminate hazards before relying on PPE. They must also train workers on safety, keep records of injuries and illnesses, and notify OSHA of any severe workplace accidents. In environments with radiation exposure, workers often wear specialized PPE to protect against specific types of radiation.