What is an essential practice for working in areas with hazardous materials?

Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) is a fundamental practice for ensuring safety in environments where hazardous materials are present. PPE acts as a barrier between the worker and potential hazards, minimizing the risk of injury or illness. This includes using items such as gloves, respirators, goggles, face shields, and protective clothing that are specifically designed to protect against the risks associated with the particular hazardous materials being handled. By equipping oneself with the right PPE, workers can effectively reduce their exposure to harmful substances, thereby promoting a safer workplace.

The other choices represent practices that significantly compromise safety. Engaging in training sessions is critical for understanding how to safely handle hazardous materials; neglecting this training could lead to increased risk. Working in groups without supervision may lead to a lack of adherence to safety protocols or protocols not being followed effectively. Lastly, ignoring labeling on materials is dangerous as labels provide essential information regarding the hazards associated with the substances, instructions for safe handling, and the necessary precautions to take. Therefore, wearing the appropriate PPE stands out as the most essential practice in these situations.