A circuit arrangement for operating an electromagnet (M) is provided with a clock generator (T) for delivering control pulses (SI, HI, AI) for an electronic switch connected in series with a coil (W) of the electromagnet (M). Once the electromagnet has been made to attract by a start pulse (SI), the current through the coil (W) is reduced by stop pulses (HI) to the level of the holding current (IH). The clock generator (T) in addition generates attraction pulses (AI) at periodic intervals in order to make the electromagnet (M) attract once again in the event that it is cut off as a result of a fault.