Which of the following is crucial for worker safety in the right-of-way when exposed to traffic?

High-visibility safety apparel is essential for worker safety in the right-of-way when exposed to traffic because it significantly increases the visibility of workers to oncoming vehicles. This increased visibility helps drivers see workers from a distance, reducing the risk of accidents. The use of bright colors, reflective strips, and other features in high-visibility apparel ensures that workers stand out against various backgrounds and lighting conditions, which is particularly important during times of low light or poor weather.

While reflective gloves, hard hats, and heavy-duty boots contribute to overall safety and protection, they do not provide the same level of visibility necessary to alert drivers to the presence of workers in high-traffic areas. Gloves primarily protect the hands, hard hats provide head protection from falling objects, and heavy-duty boots offer foot protection. Each of these safety equipment pieces plays a role in preventing injuries, but none substitute the critical need for visibility provided by high-visibility safety apparel in a traffic environment.