Florida Cosmetology Licensing ExamSafety, Sanitation, and SterilizationMedium
A cosmetologist is using a new chemical product for a hair treatment. The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) indicates that the product is a corrosive substance. What is the most important personal protective equipment (PPE) the cosmetologist should wear?
- AA face mask.
- BA disposable gown.
- CGloves and eye protection.
- DClosed-toe shoes.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Gloves and eye protection.
Corrosive substances can cause severe chemical burns to skin and eyes. Therefore, gloves are essential to protect the hands, and eye protection (goggles or a face shield) is critical to prevent eye injuries. The SDS provides specific PPE recommendations.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A face mask primarily protects against inhalation, which may or may not be the primary hazard for a corrosive liquid.
- B. A disposable gown offers some protection but is not the most critical for corrosive substances.
- D. Closed-toe shoes are generally good practice but less critical than direct hand and eye protection for corrosive splashes.
PPE for Corrosive Chemicals
Gloves and eye protection are essential PPE when handling corrosive substances to prevent chemical burns to skin and eyes.
- Corrosives cause chemical burns.
- Gloves protect hands.
- Eye protection (goggles/face shield) protects eyes.
- SDS specifies exact PPE.
Memory trick: Corrosives call for covering hands and eyes.