What safety gear should a heavy equipment operator always wear?

The choice of hard hat, high-visibility vest, gloves, and steel-toed boots as essential safety gear for a heavy equipment operator is rooted in the need for comprehensive protection in a potentially hazardous work environment.

A hard hat is crucial for protecting the head from falling objects or bumps from overhead hazards, which are common on construction sites or areas where heavy machinery is in operation. High-visibility vests are equally important; they ensure that the operator is easily seen by others, especially in environments with moving equipment, thus reducing the risk of accidents. Gloves protect the hands from abrasions or injuries when handling tools and materials, while steel-toed boots provide vital foot protection against heavy objects that might fall or roll, as well as offering support and stability.

The other options, while including some appropriate items, lack the level of protection necessary for operating heavy machinery safely. For instance, though safety glasses, earmuffs, and knee pads are useful, they do not cover all aspects of safety needed. Similarly, gloves and steel-toed boots are important, but a winter coat would not provide the specialized protection needed in this context. Therefore, the selected answer encompasses the most critical elements of personal protective equipment tailored for heavy equipment operations.