PPE is effective only if it is properly selected, used, maintained, and what else?

For personal protective equipment (PPE) to provide the necessary safety benefits, it must be worn correctly by the individual. Proper use entails that the equipment fits the wearer appropriately, is adjusted as necessary, and is utilized in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and safety protocols. Even the highest quality PPE cannot protect a worker if it's not worn at all.

The other options relate to various aspects of handling PPE but do not address the fundamental requirement that the equipment must be actively worn during tasks where hazards are present. For example, while distributing PPE to employees or inspecting it regularly contributes to overall safety efforts, they do not fulfill the critical necessity of ensuring that PPE is actually being worn when it is needed.