Abstract: A safety device for a vibratory plate have a drive lever. The drive lever includes an axle for adjusting at least one forward and one reverse travel direction. The safety device also includes a hydraulic cylinder having a piston rod that controls at least one exciter shaft. The safety device further includes a tappet coupled rigidly with the driver axle. The safety device also includes a connecting rod which can provide a coupling between the tappet and transmission lever. The safety device additionally includes a release lever which is displaceable such that the tappet and transmission lever can be decoupled.