Should Gloves Be Worn When Operating a Table Saw?

Table saws are powerful woodworking tools, but they also rank among the most dangerous. Hand injuries from table saw accidents are unfortunately common, which makes workers ask: Should gloves be worn when operating a table saw? While gloves may seem like an extra layer of protection, safety experts warn that they may sometimes do more harm than good.

The Risks of Wearing Gloves at a Table Saw

Although gloves protect against splinters, cuts, and abrasions, they also introduce unique dangers when used around rotating blades:

• Entanglement Risk – Loose fabric or glove material can get caught by the spinning blade, pulling the operator's hand into the saw.

• Reduced Dexterity – Gloves may make it harder to feel and control wood precisely.

• False Sense of Security – Workers may underestimate the risks, assuming gloves will prevent serious injury.

For these reasons, many woodworking safety organizations advise against wearing gloves while operating table saws.

Recommended Hand Protection Alternatives

Instead of gloves, workers should focus on:

1. Push Sticks or Push Blocks – Keeps hands at a safe distance from the blade.

2. Featherboards – Provides downward and side pressure to guide the wood safely.

3. Blade Guards and Riving Knives – Reduces the risk of accidental contact.

4. Proper Training and Awareness – Understanding safe cutting techniques minimizes risk.

When Gloves Can Be Useful in Woodworking

Gloves still play an important role in a woodworking shop, but not while directly operating a table saw. Workers should wear:

• Leather or cut-resistant gloves when carrying lumber to prevent splinters.

• Nitrile-coated gloves for handling polished wood or finishing tasks.

• Thermal gloves in outdoor or unheated workshops during cold weather.

The key is knowing when to wear them—and when to take them off.

Conclusion

So, should gloves be worn when operating a table saw? The short answer is no. Gloves pose a serious entanglement risk and reduce control when cutting. Instead, prioritize safe operating practices and use push tools or blade guards. Gloves remain essential in other woodworking tasks, but safety always comes first when working with power tools.

At LITA Safety, we provide a wide range of industrial safety gloves designed for woodworking, construction, and heavy-duty applications. While table saw operation requires caution without gloves, our cut-resistant and splinter-proof gloves are ideal for other woodworking activities.

Contact us at info@litasafety.com to explore our full range of safety glove solutions.