Which personal protective equipment is used to cover the face and offer respiratory protection?

The choice of personal protective equipment that specifically covers the face and offers respiratory protection is the respirator. Respirators are designed to filter out harmful particles, gases, or vapors from the air, providing essential safeguards for individuals working in environments where exposure to infectious agents or hazardous materials is a concern.

Unlike goggles, which protect only the eyes, and gloves, which protect the hands, respirators serve a crucial role in safeguarding the respiratory system by ensuring that the air entering the lungs is free from contaminants. Face shields provide a barrier for the face but do not filter air; they are used primarily to protect against splashes or bodily fluids rather than airborne pathogens. Therefore, the respirator is the optimal choice for situations requiring both face coverage and respiratory health protection, making it the correct answer to this question.