What might be a consequence of neglecting to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) during a hazardous materials response?

Neglecting to wear personal protective equipment (PPE) during a hazardous materials response significantly increases the risk of injury or exposure to dangerous substances. PPE is designed to protect responders from harmful effects such as chemical burns, respiratory issues, or contamination from hazardous materials. Without appropriate protective gear, responders are vulnerable to the toxic environmental conditions they may encounter, which can lead to serious health consequences, acute injuries, or long-term health issues.

The other choices do not accurately reflect the consequences of not wearing PPE. Increased visibility and enhanced communication are not directly related to safety and health concerns in a hazardous materials context, while faster incident resolution is unlikely without the proper protective measures in place, as the responders' safety is compromised. Therefore, the priority must always be on ensuring personal safety through the proper use of PPE.