Abstract: A reciprocating sensing shield for use in connection with a power press such as a press break or bending machine is operatively mounted on the press ram for relative vertical movement and is controlled to be positioned to guard the "pinch point" of the dies and furthermore to stop downward movement of the ram should an operator's fingers or hands be in the proximity to the "pinch point" just prior to the movable die arriving thereat. The ram and shield descend as a unit until the ram reaches the "pinch point" at which time the shield is positioned to cover the break thereby to prevent an operator from inserting his hands or fingers into the break. As the ram reaches the "pinch point", the sensing shield immediately raises clear of the break. As the work piece is formed by continued descent of the ram, the ram reverses (rises) and the sensing shield is carried upwardly with it.