Which of the following is NOT a recommended PPE item?

Standard gloves are, in fact, a recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) item for veterinary staff. They serve as a primary barrier to protect the hands from exposure to biological hazards, chemicals, and infectious materials during routine handling of animals, medical procedures, or cleaning tasks. In a veterinary setting, the use of gloves is crucial for both the safety of the staff and the well-being of the animals.

In contrast, the other items listed—dust masks, double gloves, and ear plugs—are also considered PPE but serve specific situations. Dust masks protect against inhaling pollutants or infectious agents, double gloves provide an additional layer of protection where there is a higher risk of exposure, and ear plugs help protect against noise exposure in environments where loud sounds may pose a risk. Each piece of PPE has its place in safeguarding health in a veterinary practice, but standard gloves are essential and widely accepted as a basic requirement.