What type of protective gear is commonly required for surface miners?

Surface mining presents various hazards, making proper protective gear essential for ensuring the safety of miners. The correct choice includes hard hats, gloves, eye protection, and ear plugs, which address the multiple risks associated with surface mining activities.

Hard hats are crucial as they protect the head from falling objects or debris, a common hazard in mining environments. Gloves provide hand protection against cuts, scrapes, and chemical exposure while handling tools and materials. Eye protection is necessary to shield the eyes from dust, flying particles, and potential chemical splashes, which can cause serious injuries. Ear plugs help reduce exposure to loud noises from machinery and blasting operations, preventing hearing loss over time.

Collectively, this gear is designed to protect against the physical dangers inherent to surface mining, ensuring the safety and well-being of workers on the site. Other options lack the comprehensive safety measures needed in such a hazardous environment; for instance, sandals and sunglasses do not offer adequate protection, lightweight clothing may not provide necessary durability, and a reflective vest alone would not guard against mechanical hazards.