Which of the following items is NOT one of the minimum protective equipment requirements on the job?

The selection of safety goggles as the item that is not one of the minimum protective equipment requirements is based on the specific job context. While safety goggles are critical for protecting against eye injuries in many environments, they may not be universally required across all job sites.

In contrast, hard hats are essential on construction sites or areas where there is a risk of falling objects. Steel-toed boots are important for foot protection against heavy equipment and tools, which is often a significant hazard in many industrial settings. Ear plugs are often mandated in environments where noise levels exceed safe limits, such as in construction or manufacturing areas.

Hence, while safety goggles are important, they may not be a standard requirement for every job, leading to the conclusion that they are not one of the minimum protective equipment requirements in every scenario. This highlights the necessity to assess the specific risks associated with different workplaces to determine which personal protective equipment is mandated.