Abstract: An operator-tended machine, e.g., a machine for applying snap fasteners, rivets or the like to workpieces, has an upper tool which moves against a lower tool acting as an anvil for it. A fingerguard moves ahead of the upper tool to protect the fingers of an operator. A workpiece support, with reference to which the prescribed safety distance of the fingerguard is calculated, can move downwardly and yield to the upper tool against a biasing force.

Abstract: A machine for affixing e.g. snap fasteners, rivets and the like to workpieces has a stationary lower tool and a downwardly movable cooperating upper tool. To protect the finger of an operator against injury by the tools the machine also has a finger guard positioned to move ahead of the descending upper tool. The finger guard is mounted on two parallel upright links which are longitudinally shiftable relative to each other. When the finger guard encounters an obstacle this results in shifting of one link relative to the other and two normally engaged contacts in an electrical circuit for the machine drive move apart, interrupting the circuit and shutting down the machine drive.