Abstract: A method and a device are disclosed for the secure operation of a switching device including at least one main contact which can be switched on and off and which includes contact pieces and a displaceable contact bridge, and at least one control magnet which includes a displaceable anchor. The anchor and the contact bridge are actively connected to each other such that the corresponding main contact can be opened or closed when switched on and off. In at least one embodiment, the method includes the following: a) the path difference, which returns the anchor after switching on and off, is recognised, b) devices which are used to open welded main contacts are released by a release device when the recognised path difference exceeds a predetermined value and a specific time duration of time has run out after switching off.