Which of the following can be considered a personal protective equipment (PPE)?

A dust mask qualifies as personal protective equipment (PPE) because it is designed to protect the wearer from inhaling harmful dust, particles, or contaminants in the air. PPE is specifically intended to provide a barrier against hazards that can cause injury or illness, and in this case, the dust mask serves that purpose by filtering out harmful substances that might be present in the environment where one is working, especially in industries involving dust or chemical exposure.

The other items listed do not serve as PPE and are instead related to general office or workplace ergonomics and safety. An office chair, while important for comfort and proper posture, does not provide protection against physical risks or environmental hazards. Similarly, a desk lamp is essential for adequate lighting for tasks but does not shield the user from hazardous conditions. A file cabinet is used for storage and organization of documents but offers no protective benefits to the individual in the same way personal protective equipment does. Thus, the dust mask stands out as the appropriate choice for PPE.