What is defined as any means of preventing personnel from coming into contact with moving parts of machinery that may cause harm?

The term that describes any means of preventing personnel from coming into contact with moving parts of machinery that may cause harm is safeguarding. Safeguarding refers to systems or measures designed to create a barrier between workers and hazardous machinery or moving parts, thereby ensuring their safety. This can include physical barriers, such as guards and enclosures, or safety devices like interlocks and presence-sensing devices that stop machinery when a person is too close.

Safeguarding is essential in industrial settings because it minimizes the risk of injuries and accidents associated with machinery operation. By implementing effective safeguarding measures, organizations can comply with safety regulations and create a safer workplace for their employees.

In relation to the other terms, "protection" is a broader concept that may not specifically relate to machinery; "prevention" focuses on avoiding incidents through various strategies but does not specifically address the physical barriers designed to keep personnel safe; and "isolation" often refers to separating equipment or specific areas to manage hazards but does not encompass the full scope of measures intended to shield workers from moving parts in machinery. Thus, safeguarding precisely captures the intent of the question.