A machine tool for chip removing machining operations on workpieces using tools comprises a tool checking device for checking a tool of the machine tool as regards damage or fracture by means of a sensor. There is a provision on the machine tool such that sensor is a contact-free sensor arranged on a movably disposed sensor holder, that the tool checking device possesses a drive for the sensor holder to shift the sensor toward and away from the tool to be checked and that the machine tool or the tool checking device possesses a control module for the control of the drive to perform a measuring excursion so that the drive shifts the sensor for a measurement of a tool to be checked for a measurement toward the tool and after the measurement shifts it away from the tool.