Should Gloves Be Worn When Using a Drill?

Operating a drill comes with inherent risks, and deciding whether to wear gloves is an important safety consideration. While gloves can offer protection, they also come with potential downsides.

Should You Wear Gloves When Using a Drill?

Wearing gloves while using a drill can protect your hands from cuts and abrasions, but it also introduces some safety risks. Gloves can interfere with your grip and dexterity, making it harder to control the drill, especially when working with high-speed tools or precision tasks.

Are Gloves Necessary for Power Tools?

Power tools like drills require careful handling. Wearing gloves can sometimes reduce your ability to maintain a strong, steady grip, which is crucial for controlling the tool. In some cases, gloves can get caught in moving parts, leading to serious injuries.

Pros of Wearing Gloves Cons of Wearing Gloves
Protects hands from cuts Can reduce dexterity
Prevents blisters Can get caught in moving parts
Improves grip in some cases May affect tool control

What Type of Gloves Should Be Used for Drilling Operations?

If gloves are worn, they should be chosen carefully. For lighter drilling tasks, cloth or soft leather gloves can provide basic protection. For more intensive drilling, cut-resistant or heat-resistant gloves offer better safety. These gloves maintain a balance between comfort and protection while still allowing for a controlled grip.

When Should Gloves Not Be Worn While Using a Drill?

Gloves should not be worn in certain situations, particularly when working with high-speed drills or tools that require precise control. If gloves get caught in the drill, they can cause serious injury. In cases where delicate materials are involved, gloves may also hinder your ability to feel the material, leading to mistakes.

What Are the OSHA Requirements for Gloves?

OSHA provides clear guidelines regarding glove use with power tools. According to OSHA, gloves should never interfere with a worker’s ability to handle tools properly. Gloves should be appropriate for the type of task and not reduce dexterity, especially when precision is needed.

OSHA Guidelines for Gloves Application
Avoid gloves that reduce dexterity High-speed or precision tasks
Use cut-resistant gloves for sharp tools Handling sharp materials
Use padded gloves for comfort Vibration or impact protection

Conclusion

While gloves can provide protection when using a drill, they can also pose risks. Assessing the situation and choosing the right gloves—or opting not to wear them—depends on the task and the specific tool being used.

Newsletter

Subscribe to our Newsletter & Event right now to be updated.

Request a Free Quote

Send us a message if you have any questions or request a quote. We will be back to you ASAP!