What qualifies as a means of safeguarding the point of operation of a mechanical power press?

The correct answer, adjustable barrier, refers to a specific type of safeguarding method that can be modified to accommodate the varying sizes or shapes of the workpieces being operated on a mechanical power press. This flexibility allows the adjustable barrier to effectively protect the operator from potential hazards associated with the point of operation while still enabling the necessary access required for different tasks.

In the context of safeguarding the point of operation, an adjustable barrier can be positioned to prevent access during the machine's operation, thus reducing the risk of injury from moving parts. This adaptability is particularly valuable in scenarios where workpieces can change frequently, ensuring ongoing protection without needing to replace safeguards.

Regarding the other options, fixed guards are rigid structures that cannot be moved or adjusted, which may not offer the same versatility for varying workpieces. Two-hand controls require the operator to use both hands to operate the machine, thus providing a different form of safety while still allowing access at the point of operation. Presence-sensing devices detect if an operator's hands or other body parts are in the danger zone, stopping the machine; however, these do not provide a physical barrier, which is often a key feature for securing the point of operation. Each of these alternatives serves a specific safety purpose but does not offer the