According to OSHA standards, employees exposed to public traffic must wear what?

Employees who are exposed to public traffic are required to wear reflective vests to enhance their visibility. This requirement is rooted in the necessity to protect workers from potential accidents caused by moving vehicles. Reflective vests are designed with bright colors and reflective materials, making it easier for drivers to see workers from a distance, especially in low-light conditions or poor weather.

While hard hats, gloves, and safety goggles are essential for certain types of work environments, they are not specifically aimed at addressing the hazards posed by traffic. Hard hats protect against head injuries from overhead hazards, gloves provide hand protection, and safety goggles shield the eyes from debris or hazardous substances. However, none of these items significantly improve visibility in traffic situations, which is why wearing reflective vests is a crucial safety measure in those settings.