Should Gloves Be Worn When Using a Drill?

Whether to wear gloves when using a drill is a topic of debate among many safety experts. This article explores the pros and cons of using gloves, providing insights to help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Wearing Gloves

Wearing gloves while operating a drill can contribute to your safety and comfort in several ways:

Protection from Cuts and Abrasions

Gloves can protect your hands from sharp drill bits and rough materials, reducing the risk of cuts and abrasions. This is particularly important during tasks that involve drilling into materials like wood, metal, or concrete.

Improved Grip

Certain types of gloves, especially those designed for mechanical work, can enhance your grip on the drill. This is particularly useful if your hands are oily, sweaty, or if you are working with heavy materials.

Cons of Wearing Gloves

While gloves can provide protection, they also come with certain risks:

Risk of Entanglement

Loose or ill-fitting gloves can get caught in the drill or the material being drilled, leading to serious injuries. This risk is particularly high with larger drills and machines operating at high speeds.

Reduced Dexterity

Gloves can decrease your ability to feel and control the drill accurately, which is crucial for precision work. This can lead to less accurate drilling and a higher risk of damaging both the drill and the material.

Recommendations

To make the best decision, consider the following:

Choose the Right Gloves

If you decide to wear gloves, opt for tight-fitting gloves designed for mechanical work. This will reduce the risk of entanglement and provide better dexterity while still protecting your hands.

Evaluate the Task

Consider the specifics of your task. For jobs that require high precision or where entanglement is a risk, it may be safer to avoid gloves altogether. For tasks that involve drilling into less dangerous materials, gloves can provide an added layer of protection.

Follow Safety Guidelines

Always adhere to the safety guidelines provided by the tool manufacturer. Assess the specific circumstances of your job to determine the most appropriate choice.

Case Study: Hands-on Experience

I once had my sock caught by a handheld drill, which resulted in my leg getting pulled towards the machine. Despite the drill only being a 500W corded power drill, it was still enough to cause serious damage. This incident highlights the risks associated with loose or ill-fitting gloves.

On the other hand, I have found wearing gloves beneficial when working with materials that produce small, sharp particles. For example, using gloves can help protect against bits of wood, metal, or cutting oil that may cause irritation or skin damage. Additionally, gloves help prevent the penetration of tiny metal strips during milling, which can be difficult to remove.

Ultimately, the decision to wear gloves depends on a balance between the risk of the drill's operation and the risk of entanglement. It is important to consider the specific circumstances of your task and follow the safety guidelines provided.

Conclusion: Wearing gloves can provide protection, but the risks of entanglement and reduced dexterity must also be considered. Assess the situation carefully to make an informed decision that prioritizes your safety.