Which piece of protective gear is NOT typically associated with respiratory protection?

The correct choice is gloves, as they are primarily designed to protect the hands from contamination and exposure to hazardous materials, rather than to provide respiratory protection. Respiratory protection focuses on ensuring that the airway is safeguarded from inhaling harmful substances or pathogens. Items such as masks and respirators are specifically designed to filter out particles and prevent inhalation of contaminants. Eye shields, while not directly involved in respiratory protection, are often part of personal protective equipment to protect against splashes or flying particles, complementing respiratory safety gear rather than serving the same purpose. Gloves do not play a role in protecting the respiratory system, which helps clarify why they are not associated with respiratory protection measures.