Which of the following is NOT a necessary piece of PPE for ladder handling?

In the context of ladder handling, the necessary personal protective equipment (PPE) is primarily focused on preventing falls, protecting against potential impacts, and ensuring a secure grip on the ladder. Climbing boots provide traction and support, crucial for maintaining stability on a ladder. Climbing or work gloves enhance grip and protect hands from potential abrasions or cuts during the handling of a ladder. Safety glasses protect the eyes from debris or accidental falls while working at heights.

Ear protection, while important in various construction or noisy environments, is not specifically necessary for the act of handling a ladder. Its primary function is to protect hearing in environments with high noise levels, rather than providing safety while working with ladders. Therefore, choosing ear protection as the option that is not essential for ladder handling makes sense in this context.