Which of the following is NOT included in personal protective equipment (PPE) while trimming?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) encompasses a variety of gear and clothing intended to keep workers safe from hazards associated with their jobs. When it comes to trimming trees, the correct choice identifies an item that does not fall under the category of PPE.

Sturdy boots, eye protection, and hearing protection are all essential components of PPE when trimming. Sturdy boots provide ankle support and protect the feet from heavy falling objects and sharp tools. Eye protection is crucial for guarding the eyes against flying debris, branches, or chemicals that may be encountered during the trimming process. Hearing protection is necessary as well, especially when using power tools and equipment that can produce harmful noise levels that could lead to hearing loss over time.

In contrast, short sleeves are not included in PPE guidelines. While they may be comfortable in warm weather, they do not provide the necessary protection that long sleeves would offer against cuts, abrasions, and exposure to branches or sharp tools. Therefore, short sleeves do not meet the criteria for PPE designed to ensure the safety of workers operating in potentially hazardous environments while trimming trees.