Aspects of embodiments of the invention relate to a spring-return actuator comprising a first piston movable between a first and a second position by pressurized fluid to move a load; a safety system comprising a second piston movable by the pressurized fluid to arm the safety system and which returns the first piston from the second position to the first position when de-energizing the 3/2 pilot valve or when the pressure of the pressurized fluid drops below a safety pressure threshold; and a differential fluid channel for providing the pressurized fluid and configured so that the first piston while working to move the load remains substantially disengaged from the safety system being armed.