Thanks for the feedback Chris, we need people to keep us honest! 

I can't remember what the db rating was for the plugs and muffs that Barry quoted in the podcast, but we were both under the impression that wearing 30db ear muffs over 30db ear plugs wouldn't result in a 60db reduction in noise. It would be more like a 33db reduction. Am I understanding this correctly?

@ Jr, I'm glad he didn't miss! 

Hi Yi, 

I'm months behind replying to this, but I must have missed your post back in July and I'm just discovering it now. 

You're correct, there are places where gloves are not only appropriate, they are a must – like welding. But anytime you're hands are around anything that rotates and can catch the gloves, you want to think twice about wearing them. Your skin tears, easily. And while a nasty cut isn't fun, it's far better than having your entire hand (or arm!) drawn into the rotating piece of machinery. 

Rings are another danger. I once saw a soccer coach lose his ring finger on a soccer goal. A ball was on top of the goal and he jumped up to smack it down. Unfortunately his ring caught and his finger and ring stayed on one of the hooks that holds the net to the frame. 

The best bet is to just use good judgement. And when in doubt, ask someone who would know (a co-worker, fellow hobby enthusiast, etc). 

In this hobby it's especially important and beneficial to have a mentor. That mentor should not only be helping you with your machining skills, they should be helping you understand safety as well. 

I hope that helps, and sorry for the (very) late reply.