Final answer:
The semicircular enclosure on a masonry saw helps to protect the user from flying debris and prevents accidental contact with the blade, which are critical for ensuring workplace safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
Rick is using a masonry saw that is guarded with a semicircular enclosure over the blade. The purpose of this semicircular enclosure is to protect the user from flying debris, to prevent accidental contact with the blade, and may also provide some assistance in improving the accuracy of the cuts.
However, it is not primarily meant to provide a clear view of the cutting area. Safety enclosures like this are a critical aspect of workplace safety especially when using power tools, as they help to mitigate potential injuries from the blade itself and from the materials being cut.