To improve reliability and flexibility of a binding apparatus.

The apparatus for binding an object, in particular a cable harness, has a tool (1), a band (9) and a lock (2). The band (9) is guided through the lock (2) in the form of a loop (93). The lock (2) has a band passage (23) and detents (21) arranged therein and engaging with the band (9). The tool (1) has a clamp (4), and a band guide (7) which opens out into a lock mount (5) on an end side of the tool (1), and also has a movable covering tongue (6) which is rotatably provided to temporarily prevent at least one of the detents (21) from engaging with the band (9). The covering tongue (6) is expediently arranged such that, in a deflected position, it projects into the band passage (23) of the lock (2) in the lock mount (5).