Which of the following items must be used for protection against shock or burns near exposed energized parts?

Insulating materials are critical for protection against shock or burns when working near exposed energized parts. These materials are specifically designed to prevent electrical current from passing through them, thereby creating a barrier between the worker and the live electrical components. Properly rated insulating materials can significantly reduce the risk of electrical shock or burn during electrical operations.

While standard safety gear and protective gloves can be important in an electrical safety program, they do not specifically address the unique hazards posed by energized parts in the same way that insulating materials do. Standard safety gear might include items like helmets, safety glasses, and non-conductive footwear, which play crucial roles in overall personal safety but are not always sufficient for protection against electrical hazards without accompanying insulating materials.

Therefore, focusing on insulating materials is essential, as they provide essential direct protection against electrical hazards, making them the most relevant choice for the safety requirements when working near energized parts.