Should workers who operate table saws or other equipment with both sharp edge hazards and rotating parts be encouraged to wear gloves?

The personal protective equipment (PPE) regulations (29 CFR 1910.132-.138) require PPE “for eyes, face, head, and extremities ... shall be provided, used, and maintained in a sanitary and reliable condition wherever it is necessary by reason of hazards of process or environment, chemical hazards, radiological hazards, or mechanical irritants encountered in a manner capable of causing injury or impairment in the function of any part of the body through absorption, inhalation or physical contact.”

Unless the use of gloves create a greater hazard to the operator, it is not a violation to use them while operating rotating equipment. Management is responsible for evaluating each situation to ensure that such work practices do not increase the hazard for employees.