Abstract: A protective device for the top surface of a slotted milling machine table preferably comprises a rubber cover sized to overlay a desired length of the table at one end thereof, the surfaces of the cover each having a raised peripheral lip and longitudinally extending beads and ribs. The downwardly directed beads fit within the slots of the milling table to hold the cover in place while the downwardly directed ribs provide air space between the placed cover and the table, thereby inhibiting rust. The upwardly directed raised lip prevents coolant spillage from the top of the cover while the coolant return holes enable excess coolant to be returned to the slots residing therebeneath. To provide protection for a reduced length table, the cover is made reversible by providing a transverse lip portion on one of the surfaces, located inboard of the coolant return holes.