Abstract: A protective device for a band saw machine is secured to the guards which are normally found on such machines. The device extends downwardly from the guards to the plane of the table, on which the blocks to be cut are placed. The device encloses the band saw and prevents inadvertent contact therewith. The device comprises two members, a fixed member secured to the guard and a movable member secured to the fixed member. The movable member is locked to the fixed member. When a block contacts the device the movable member is released until the block has been cut. The movable member returns to the locked position after the block has been cut.