Abstract: The present invention relates to a safety release mechanism for use with a power operated driving apparatus for fasteners which includes a pivotally supported trigger or release lever housing for actuating or releasing the driving apparatus upon engagement with a release pin or switch. The safety release mechanism is supported in the trigger housing between the trigger and the release pin and is biased by a spring to the safety or off position which prevents the trigger lever from engaging the release pin. Upon movement of the safety release member to the actuated or release position, the trigger lever is engageable with the release pin or switch to actuate the power operated driving apparatus.