What type of protection does respiratory equipment provide?

Respiratory equipment is specifically designed to safeguard individuals from harmful airborne substances, including particles, fumes, mists, dusts, and vapors that can be detrimental to health. This type of equipment, such as masks and respirators, filters or purifies the air inhaled, ensuring that the user is not exposed to harmful substances present in their environment.

The other options pertain to different forms of personal protective equipment (PPE) that serve distinct purposes. For instance, protection from loud noises is the function of hearing protection devices, while extreme temperatures are managed by thermal protective gear. Electric shock protection is provided by insulated equipment and grounding devices. Each type of protection is tailored for specific hazards, which underscores why respiratory equipment is vital for preventing inhalation of hazardous materials.