Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the targeted reaction in the event of contact between an element (4, 6) pertaining to a machine and an object (5, 7), and a corresponding control device (14). Upon identification of contact between the machine element (4, 6) and the object (5, 7), if the machine axle is shifted into rapid displacement mode in an automated manner during the contact by means of a control device (14), further displacement of the machine axle (3, 41, 42, 43) is stopped by the drive (42, 43) of the machine (3, 41, 42, 43) being immediately cut off. Upon identification of contact, if the machine axle is shifted into slow displacement mode in an automated manner during the contact by means of a control device (14), collision detection is carried out, further displacement of the machine axle (3, 41, 42, 43) being stopped if a collision is detected.