What type of safety equipment is essential when handling herbicides?

Handling herbicides requires appropriate safety equipment to minimize the risk of exposure and potential health hazards. Goggles are essential for protecting the eyes from splashes or vapors that can cause irritation or damage, especially since herbicides can contain chemicals that are harmful upon contact or inhalation. Heavy-duty gloves serve as a barrier against skin exposure, which is crucial since some herbicides can be absorbed through the skin and may cause adverse effects.

While a hard hat is generally more relevant in certain construction or industrial environments to protect against falling objects or head injuries, it is not a primary piece of safety gear specifically related to handling herbicides. However, in certain work environments, especially those involving heavy machinery or overhead work related to right-of-way maintenance, a hard hat might be needed for overall safety.

The selection of "all of the above" acknowledges that while goggles and heavy-duty gloves are critical specifically for herbicide handling, a hard hat may also be important depending on the specific circumstances of the work environment. Hence, recognizing the overall protective measures incorporating multiple types of safety equipment is vital when working with potentially hazardous substances like herbicides.