Which item is essential for ensuring safety during hazardous lab work?

Safety goggles are essential for ensuring safety during hazardous lab work because they protect the eyes from potential harm caused by chemical splashes, flying debris, or intense light from equipment. In a laboratory setting, which often involves the use of various chemicals and equipment that may pose risks to the eyes, wearing safety goggles helps prevent injuries that could result from accidental exposure. Protecting the eyes is crucial, as they are very vulnerable and a significant injury can lead to permanent damage or loss of vision.

The other items listed, while useful in laboratory procedures, do not primarily serve the purpose of protecting the individual from hazards. A scalpel handle is important for precision cutting but does not enhance safety. A petri dish is used for culturing organisms but does not provide personal protection. A magnetic stirrer is a piece of equipment used for mixing solutions but has no relevance to safety measures. Therefore, safety goggles stand out as the critical item specifically designed for personal safety during potentially dangerous lab work.