Are safety goggles needed?
ok-KYA-li di pro-tet-TSYO-ne — occhiali has three syllables; 'chi' makes a 'ky' sound.
Use this before starting any work that generates flying particles or spray — drilling, cutting, grinding, or using chemicals. A good ferramenta will remind you about safety equipment when selling power tools or chemicals.
Occhiali di protezione (safety goggles) are required for drilling, grinding, cutting metal or wood, and working with chemicals. Italian law requires CE-marked eye protection for professional use. For DIY, the same protection is strongly recommended — eye injuries are among the most common DIY accidents.
Devo comprare anche le cuffie antirumore.
I should also buy ear defenders.
Cuffie antirumore (ear defenders/earmuffs) are essential for angle grinders and power saws.
Serve la mascherina antipolvere?
Is a dust mask needed?
Mascherina antipolvere (dust mask) or respiratore (respirator) for dusty or chemical work.
DPI obbligatori per lavorare con la smerigliatrice.
Mandatory PPE for working with an angle grinder.
DPI (Dispositivi di Protezione Individuale) — face shield, ear defenders, and gloves minimum.
Italy's workplace safety law (D.Lgs. 81/2008) is comprehensive but was long under-enforced, particularly for small businesses and self-employed workers. High-profile industrial accidents in the early 2000s prompted strengthened enforcement. Italian culture has gradually become more safety-conscious in the workplace, though DIY safety habits remain variable — many Italians still drill without goggles.