Which item is not considered part of personal protective equipment (PPE)?

The item that is not considered part of personal protective equipment (PPE) is a dense fabric scarf. Personal protective equipment typically includes items that are specifically designed to safeguard the wearer from exposure to hazards that can cause injury or illness.

Disposable gloves, face shields or masks, and gowns are all commonly recognized as PPE because they serve to offer a barrier against contaminants, infectious agents, and other hazards. Disposable gloves protect hands from harmful substances, face shields or masks protect the face and respiratory system from infectious droplets, and gowns provide full-body coverage to protect against spills and exposure.

On the other hand, a dense fabric scarf does not meet the criteria as a standard piece of PPE. While it may provide some level of warmth or minimal barrier, it is not designed or certified for protective use in hazardous environments. Therefore, while it may serve a purpose in casual settings, it lacks the specific protective characteristics that define PPE.