What should always be removed when operating or working around machines?

When operating or working around machines, it is vital to remove items that could become entangled in moving parts, which is why the correct answer addresses ties. Ties can hang down and easily catch on machinery, leading to serious accidents or injuries. Ensuring that neckwear is secured or removed eliminates the risk of being pulled into equipment, which could have dire consequences.

In the context of safety practices, other items like gloves, jewelry, and loose clothing can also present hazards, but the risk varies with each. For instance, gloves can provide protection but must be of the right type and fit, while jewelry typically should be avoided because it can also get caught. Loose clothing is a known hazard because it can get tangled in machinery, similar to ties. However, ties are especially prone to causing incidents because they are often long and can easily dangle into machinery. Thus, it is crucial to prioritize the removal of ties when working in environments involving machinery.