What condition must personal protective equipment be maintained in according to regulations?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) must be maintained in a reliable and sanitary condition according to regulations because the primary purpose of PPE is to protect the wearer from health and safety risks. For PPE to effectively serve its function, it must be dependable, meaning it can withstand the potential hazards in the environment it is used in, whether that be chemical exposure, physical impacts, or biological threats. Additionally, maintaining a sanitary condition is crucial, particularly in healthcare settings or areas where contamination could occur. This ensures that the equipment does not harbor pathogens or other harmful substances that could compromise health.

Being stylish and modern, durable and fashionable, or cost-effective and useful does not address the critical safety and health aspects necessary for the equipment's effectiveness in protecting individuals in hazardous work environments. While those factors might be considerations in the buying decision, they do not satisfy the regulatory requirement for PPE maintenance focused on reliability and sanitation.