A safety operation system for a manipulator is provided with a first operation section. The first operation section has a first movable section, and outputs a first operation signal representing the position and angle of the first movable section. A failure detecting section detects failure of the first operation section on the basis of the first operation signal, and outputs a detection signal. When failure of the first operation section is not detected, a conversion section converts the first operation signal into a control signal. A second operation section has a second movable section which moves in accordance with movement of the first movable section, and outputs a second operation signal generated in accordance with movement of the second movable section. A comparison section compares the control signal with the second operation signal, and outputs a deviation signal used for opening the second movable section. A management section receives the detection signal, and supplies the comparison section with a signal for making deviation signal zero, thereby prohibiting the second movable section from being driven. A display section displays data on the failure of the first operation section and/or data on the current position of the first movable section, on the basis of a signal output from the management section.