Abstract: A fail-safe apparatus for an image forming apparatus includes a central processing unit (CPU), a drive section or load, a disconnecting circuit, and a watchdog circuit. The CPU controls an image forming sequence. The drive section or load is controlled by the CPU through an input-output controller. The disconcerting circuit disconnects power supply to the drive section or load upon reception of a trigger signal. The watchdog circuit monitors an operation of the CPU so as to output a reset signal to the CPU and the input-output controller upon detection of an operation abnormality, and to output the trigger signal to the disconnecting circuit.