What type of protection must be worn when drilling?

When drilling, the primary concern is protecting the eyes and face from flying debris, metal shavings, and other potential hazards generated during the drilling process. Safety glasses or a face shield provide a critical barrier that helps prevent these materials from causing injury to the eyes and face. The use of appropriate eye protection is essential in any environment where there is a risk of particles being ejected due to mechanical operations, making it a crucial component of personal protective equipment (PPE) in such settings.

While other protective gear, such as earplugs, gloves, and hard hats, may be important in various situations, they do not specifically address the immediate risks associated with drilling operations as effectively as safety glasses or a face shield. Earplugs protect hearing from loud noises but don't guard against physical hazards. Gloves are useful in providing hand protection from cuts or abrasions but do not shield the face or eyes. Hard hats protect against overhead hazards but are not designed for the protection of facial features during a drilling process. Thus, wearing safety glasses or a face shield is the most appropriate and necessary form of protection in this scenario.