Abstract: The specification discloses a safety device for presses and other similar machines in which stock material is manually inserted between converging machine parts. A ram and sleeve arrangement cooperates with a collar mounted on the moving portion of the machine to insure that the operator's hands are drawn completely back to the safety position prior to the commencement of the machine stroke. In the event that the ram does not operate at the commencement of the press cycle, the collar abuts the sleeve on the downward stroke of the press, and moves the pull-back mechanism therewith to the safety position.