Safety switches according to EN 1088 have the task of preventing the operation of a machine in the case of a hazard. For this purpose a safety circuit must be opened by a safety switch. All mechanical safety switches have at least one positively driven contact for this purpose.

A differentiation is made between switches with integrated actuator (with safety function) and those with separate actuator. Safety switches with separate actuator are available with and without door locking. The switches are available with metal or plastic housings.