A method and a device are disclosed for the secure operation of a switching device including at least two main contacts which can be switched on and off and which includes respectively, contact pieces and a displaceable contact bridge, and at least one control magnet which includes a displaceable anchor. The anchor acts upon the contact bridge when it is switched on and off such that the corresponding main contact is opened or closed. At least one embodiment of the inventive method includes the following steps: a) release device for a force element remains in a first state in order to interrupt the main contact as long as the main contacts are closed when switched on and open when switched off, and b) the release device are transferred into a second state if at least the main contact is welded after switching off.