Which item is NOT classified as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)?

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) refers to specialized clothing or equipment worn for protection against hazards that can cause injury or illness. In the context of healthcare and caregiving, PPE includes items that shield healthcare workers and patients from exposure to infectious agents or harmful substances.

Gloves, surgical masks, and face shields all serve specific protective functions. Gloves provide a barrier to prevent contamination of hands and reduce the risk of spreading pathogens. Surgical masks help protect the wearer's mouth and nose from droplets and splashes, while face shields offer additional protection for the entire face from respiratory droplets and splashes.

On the other hand, office desks do not serve a protective function in the context of health and safety when dealing with infectious agents. Instead, they are standard pieces of furniture in a workplace and do not provide any barrier or protective benefits to users against health hazards. Therefore, office desks are not classified as PPE. This distinction highlights the importance of using appropriate safety equipment in healthcare settings to protect both staff and patients effectively.