The invention provides an interlock system whereby operation of a domestic
appliance such as a food processor containing an electric motor capable
of driving a bladed or similar processing tool at relatively high speed
is inhibited unless a vessel having a first or a second base
configuration is securely mounted to the appliance so as to contain the
tool; the vessel having a lid or cover intended to be in place for safe
operation when the processing tool is driven by the motor. A
vessel-supporting surface of the appliance carries several up-standing
latches, each of which is formed with features capable of co-operating
with vessels having either of the base configurations to temporarily
latch either type of vessel operationally to the appliance. At least one
of the latches is formed with first and second apertures allowing
operational access for respective interlock actuators responsive to the
lid or cover of a vessel being in place as intended, to an interlock
switch whereby electrical current is permitted to flow to the motor only
when a vessel having one or other of the different base configurations is
latched to the appliance and the vessel is safely closed by its lid or
cover.