Main risks

• Glare and eye strain from intense illumination; possible harm if looking directly at the light source.
• Lamp heating after prolonged use with a risk of burns.
• Cuts when handling glass slides and coverslips, especially if damaged.
• Pinching hazards on focus knobs, stage clips and moving parts.
• Tipping or dropping of the equipment with possible injury and optical damage.
• Electrical risk due to damaged cables, loose plugs, moisture or spills.
• Exposure to biological samples or reagents that may cause irritation or contamination.
• Ingestion or choking on small parts, especially in children.
• Tripping hazards from cables or power supplies in the work area.

Safe use

• Place the microscope on a firm, level and clear surface to prevent vibrations and falls.
• Carry the equipment with both hands, holding the arm and the base, with no loose accessories.
• Start with minimum illumination and magnification; never look directly at the light source nor use the microscope to observe the sun.
• Adjust focus gradually, without forcing the controls; keep fingers away from the stage and clips.
• If your model incorporates very intense or UV illumination, use appropriate filters and eye protection and avoid directing the beam towards the eyes or skin.
• Disconnect the equipment before changing bulbs or accessories and allow the lamp to cool.
• Route cables without tension, away from the edge of the table and walkways.
• Handle samples with gloves and, where appropriate, safety goggles; do not eat or drink in the work area and wash your hands afterwards.
• Hold slides and coverslips by the edges; safely dispose of any broken glass.
• If battery-powered, observe polarity and do not mix new and used batteries or different types.

Storage and maintenance

• Store the microscope clean, dry and kept covered; avoid dust, humidity and direct sunlight.
• Fit caps on eyepieces and objectives when not in use; do not leave the stage pressing on a specimen.
• Keep the equipment in a stable place and out of reach of small children.
• Clean the lenses with an air blower and cloth or tissue designed for optics; avoid abrasive or makeshift products.
• Do not touch optical surfaces with your fingers; for persistent marks use the minimum amount of liquid specified by the manufacturer.
• Periodically check the tightness of screws and the condition of controls and cables; replace damaged parts immediately.
• Replace lamps and fuses only with the recommended type and allow them to cool before handling.
• If it is not going to be used for a prolonged period, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.
• After use in humid environments, ventilate the equipment to prevent condensation and fungal growth on the optics.

Restrictions of use

• Not a toy: when used by minors, always under adult supervision.
• Do not use for clinical diagnosis or to make medical decisions.
• Do not view intense light sources through the microscope nor direct the illumination towards the eyes or skin.
• Do not use outdoors in the rain, near water or in environments with flammable vapours.
• Do not cover ventilation grilles or obstruct heat dissipation.
• Do not modify, open or attempt to repair electrical or optical components.
• Do not use the equipment if there is visible damage to the casing, lenses or wiring, or if it overheats.
• Do not place combustible materials in contact with the lamp or near the light output.
• Do not mouth-pipette or inhale or ingest reagents or stains used in samples.