Abstract: The invention concerns a system for monitoring the operating condition of a switch by utilizing one or more integrating stages to determine the switching capacity and prevent overstresses. One or more monitoring devices for current, switch action rate, arc quench chamber insulation, contact condition, mechanical condition, operating temperature, or contact voltage are provided, which report the equipment condition, particularly the switching capacity. The sensors are functionally connected with the switchgear drive via a processing stage. The current sensors, together with a counting device, can report the .intg. i.n.dt, i.e. a measure of the stressing of the switch, and in doing so can disable the drive of the equipment. The invention serves the early detection of switchgear which is no longer fully operational, so that these can be replaced before an overstress occurs.