What type of condition must all personal protective equipment be in?

Personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial for ensuring the safety and health of individuals in various work environments, particularly in fields that involve exposure to hazards. For PPE to serve its purpose effectively, it must be reliable and sanitary. This means that the equipment must be in good working condition to protect users from hazards, such as chemicals, physical risks, or biological agents.

Reliability indicates that the equipment will function as intended when needed, which is vital in preventing accidents or injuries. Sanitary conditions prevent contamination, which can lead to health risks for the user. Ensuring that PPE is both reliable and sanitary maximizes its effectiveness and helps maintain a safe working environment.

The other choices do not adequately capture the essential requirements for PPE. Being brand new does not guarantee function; used items can be effective if they remain reliable and clean. Similarly, merely being functional is insufficient if the equipment is not sanitized, as it may pose health risks to the wearer. Lastly, occasionally cleaning does not meet the standards needed to maintain hygiene and reliability. Therefore, the condition of being reliable and sanitary is key for personal protective equipment.