Abstract: An electric switch comprises a closed switch housing which is adapted to contain the switch contacts which has a guide bore for guiding a shaft portion of a switch operating member or push button. An operating member lock included an exterior housing portion associated with the switch housing which has a lock guide channel and a lock member bore intercepting the guide channel. The lock member is movable in the bore to engage a lock actuator which is connected to the switch operating member and is displaceable in the lock guide channel. The lock member is engageable with the lock actuator when the switch operating member is in an actuated position in order to lock the lock member and the switch operating member against movement.