safety catch

a device used in mechanisms, as for elevators, to prevent falling in the event of mechanical failure.

Origin of safety catch

First recorded in 1875–80

Two days ago, Stanton had his finger fairly on the trigger, but a friend of mine stepped in and snapped the safety-catch.

The Real Man |Francis Lynde
Then without a word Hubbard took it up, glanced at the safety-catch and slid back the breach.

A Case in Camera |Oliver Onions
The doctor turned with a howl of rage, snatched up the pistol which lay on the table, and thumbed down the safety-catch.

The Green Rust |Edgar Wallace
He had quite forgotten it—the safety-catch was out of order.

The Wolves of God |Algernon Blackwood

In suddenly reversing the current, an excess blew out the safety-catch, causing a big noise and a blinding flash of light.

The Scrap Book. Volume 1, No. 2 |Various

safety catch

a device to prevent the accidental operation of a mechanism, e.g. in a firearm or lift