Main risks

• Entanglement and cuts from contact with belts, pulleys, fans or other rotating parts.
• Burns from hot surfaces of the engine, exhaust or cooling system.
• Electric shocks or sparks when connecting probes to the battery or ignition systems.
• Eye injury from exposure to the beam in optical tachometers or from intense reflections.
• Impacts or falls when working in unstable postures within the engine bay.
• Flying particles, dust, or splashes of fuel and oil.
• Incorrect readings leading to improper adjustments and possible damage to the engine or machinery.
• Damage to the instrument from polarity reversal, impacts, moisture, or use outside its intended environment.

Safe use

• Read the model's instructions and choose the appropriate method (contact, optical or inductive) for the task.
• Park on a level surface, apply the handbrake and work with the engine off to prepare the measurement; wear close-fitting clothing and tie back long hair.
• Fit or remove reflective tape only with the engine switched off and the shafts completely stationary.
• If you must measure with the engine running, keep hands, leads and clothing away from moving and hot parts, and work with good lighting.
• With contact tachometers, use the appropriate tip, align with the shaft and do not apply excessive force to avoid slipping.
• Connect probes or clamps with the engine off, observing polarity and checking the condition of the insulation; do not use damaged leads.
• On optical models, do not point the beam at eyes or at highly reflective surfaces; keep the lens clean and at the recommended distance.
• Avoid sparks and flames near fuel; work in well-ventilated areas and do not smoke.
• Check the sensor is secure and the reading is stable; cross-check against a reference when the adjustment is critical.
• Wear safety glasses and close-fitting gloves; avoid loose jewellery and wide sleeves.

Storage and maintenance

• Keep the tachometer clean and dry; remove dust, oil and grease with a soft cloth. Do not use harsh solvents.
• Protect the lens or optical window and accessories in a case to prevent scratches and impacts.
• Remove the batteries or charge the battery if it will not be used for a prolonged period; use batteries of the type specified by the manufacturer.
• Regularly inspect leads, tips and connectors; replace any damaged items.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to heat, moisture or severe vibration during storage and transport.
• Periodically verify accuracy against a suitable reference if the application requires it.
• Do not open or modify the device; you could compromise its safety and its calibration.

Restrictions on use

• Intended for adult use; keep out of reach of children and pets.
• Do not use while the vehicle is in motion or while driving.
• Do not use in explosive atmospheres, near flammable vapours or in heavy rain, unless the product explicitly permits it.
• Do not use on parts you cannot access safely; if there is no safe access, stop the engine and let it cool before measuring.
• Do not use the tachometer as a continuous engine control system unless it is specifically designed for it.
• Do not use if the equipment shows visible damage (cracked housing, broken display, stuck buttons) or if it shows erratic readings.
• Use only compatible accessories in good condition; do not improvise homemade adaptors.