What protective gear must be worn while using a respirator?

When using a respirator, wearing goggles is essential to ensure that eyes are protected from airborne contaminants and chemicals that could cause irritation or harm. Goggles provide a secure fit around the eyes and prevent substances from entering, particularly in environments where dust, vapors, or splashes are present. The proper combination of a respirator and goggles helps create a comprehensive personal protective equipment (PPE) approach, safeguarding both the respiratory system and the eyes from hazardous materials.

The other options, while they may serve protective functions in different contexts, do not specifically relate to the use of a respirator in the same direct manner as goggles. A face shield primarily protects the face and may not provide adequate eye coverage, ear protection is unrelated to respiratory safety, and a lab coat is useful for protecting the body and clothing but does not address the specific need for eye protection during tasks that may expose the user to harmful airborne substances.