What essential safety item is needed when driving hardened steel nails into concrete?

Safety glasses are essential when driving hardened steel nails into concrete due to the significant risk of flying debris. When the nails are struck, small pieces of concrete and the nails themselves can shatter and become airborne, posing a danger to the eyes. Safety glasses are specifically designed to protect the eyes from such hazards while providing clarity of vision.

While ear protection, heavy-duty gloves, and safety goggles all have their roles in construction safety, they do not specifically address the eye protection needed in this instance. Ear protection is important when working in noisy environments, and heavy-duty gloves can provide hand protection from cuts and abrasions. Safety goggles offer a more complete coverage of the eyes than safety glasses and are valuable in specific situations, such as when dealing with chemicals or when there is a very high risk of debris. However, for the particular task of driving nails into concrete, safety glasses are typically sufficient and appropriate for protecting against eye hazards while maintaining adequate visibility.