A method and apparatus includes a monitor in communication with, e.g., a work glove with built-in sensors to track an operator's physical activities including intermittently using hand tools, hand motion, and position or location in a work area. The sensors provide time-series data representative of the activities, and the monitor classifies and sequences the activities based on the time-series data along with, optionally, machine tool operational data. The classified and sequenced activities may then compared to instructed work procedures, ensuring correct work materials are used in production, and ensuring an operator's safety by detecting unsafe or abnormal work conditions.