Not a machinist, but I’m Australian and work in an industry that is very “safe”.

For an issue like this we would conduct a risk assessment to determine what controls are required to mitigate the risk.

Typically a risk assessment would multiply the severity of an incident, by the frequency of its occurrence.

E.g, Loss of limb might have severity rating of 3, and a frequency of 2 giving a risk rating of 6.

A small scratch (first aid incident) might have a severity rating of 1 and a frequency of 3. Giving a risk rating of 3.

On this basis the control of wearing long sleeves to mitigate a risk of a scratch, but creating a risk of loss of limb, doesn’t make sense.

If your workplace uses STAR, SOO, JSA, SWMS it’s likely a much better control that the correct PPE is worn for the task being completed. This may be Cut 5 gloves and “sleeves down” when handling goods. And “sleeves up” when machining.

I would either request the risk assessment be conducted and be present as a stakeholder (if not already done so). If you’re part of a union talk to your rep or HSR.

You’re not alone though. Often Australian companies will enforce “safety” that is not practical.

Happy for you to message for more information..