Which safety equipment is essential when applying herbicides?

Personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles is crucial when applying herbicides because these items directly protect the skin and eyes from chemical exposure. Gloves ensure that any harmful substances do not come into contact with the hands, which could lead to absorption through the skin or cause irritation. Goggles protect the eyes from splashes of herbicides, which can be especially damaging and cause serious health issues.

Using this specific protection is vital to reduce the risks associated with handling chemicals that may be toxic or harmful during application. While other safety equipment listed in the choices can be beneficial in specific contexts—like heavy-duty boots for foot protection or ear protection in noisy environments—they do not provide the same level of direct protection from herbicide exposure that gloves and goggles do.