What types of personal protective equipment is the employer always required to pay for when needed for the job?

Employers are required to provide and pay for specific types of personal protective equipment (PPE) that are essential for employees to perform their jobs safely and effectively. The correct answer includes hearing protective devices, respirators, fall protection harnesses, and lanyards because these items are specifically recognized as crucial for protecting employees from potential hazards in various work environments, particularly in high-risk jobs.

Hearing protective devices are vital for those exposed to high noise levels, which can lead to hearing loss. Respirators are necessary in environments with airborne contaminants to safeguard employees' respiratory health. Fall protection harnesses and lanyards are essential for workers who operate at heights, preventing serious injuries or fatalities.

The other options contain items that may not have the same strict requirement for employer coverage. For example, while goggles, gloves, and helmets offer critical protection, their provision may be subject to different circumstances or regulations depending on the specific workplace setting. Similarly, other listed PPE may also include elements that employers might not be mandated to cover under certain conditions. Thus, the emphasis on the specific types of PPE in the correct answer aligns with established safety regulations and guidelines that prioritize worker protection in hazardous situations.