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The statement that employers must supply respiratory protective equipment (RPE) free of charge when it is needed is correct. This requirement is rooted in health and safety regulations that mandate employers to assess potential workplace risks and provide appropriate protective equipment to ensure the safety and health of their employees. It acknowledges that employers bear the responsibility of creating a safe working environment, which includes providing necessary equipment without placing a financial burden on the workers. This principle upholds the idea that safety equipment is essential for employee protection and should not be treated as an expense that employees must cover themselves.

In contrast to this correct statement, wearing RPE at all times is not practical since there are many situations where it may not be necessary. Employees purchasing their own RPE would undermine the employer's responsibility to provide adequate protection, potentially leading to inconsistencies in the quality and suitability of the equipment. Furthermore, limiting the use of RPE only to emergencies fails to recognize that hazards can exist in everyday work conditions, and proactive use of RPE is essential in preventing health issues over time.