PPE should be selected based on which factor?

PPE, or Personal Protective Equipment, must be selected primarily based on the type of exposure encountered because different situations may pose varying levels of risk to health from bloodborne pathogens. The nature of the task at hand dictates the potential for exposure to infectious materials, and appropriate PPE is essential to minimize this risk. For example, if a worker is expected to handle sharp instruments that may be contaminated, gloves, face shields, and other protective gear that prevent contact with bodily fluids become critical.

Choosing PPE based purely on cost would not ensure adequate protection, which could lead to serious health risks. Similarly, availability may influence what a person can wear, but it should not be the deciding factor since having the right type of equipment is paramount to safety. Personal preference does not play a role in selecting effective PPE, as personal comfort should always be secondary to ensuring proper safeguarding against environmental hazards. Therefore, the most important consideration in selecting PPE is the specific exposures that may occur in a given situation.