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The invention relates to a protective unit (4) to prevent contact with conductive contacts (3) in a withdrawable rack (1) of a switching device. Said unit comprises at least one displaceable protective plate (6) and a device for operating the protective plate (6). Said device has a first functional element (35) for displacing the protective plate (6) and a second functional element (36) for locking the protective plate in at least one end position. To configure the operating mechanism in such a way that it is not necessary to take into consideration the structural configuration of other mechanisms, the device is designed as a hook (30), which is flexible in the same manner as a plate spring and is mounted on the side of the protective plate (6) that faces the contacts (3). The functional elements are formed on the bent end limb (34) of the hook. In the resting position of the hook (30), the first functional element (35) engages in a guide slot (45) that is configured in a cover plate (8).