Do not pull the detector out of its cradle by the cable. If the window is punctured, the tube is ruined and will have to be replaced. Corrosion from batteries or corrosive atmospheres can destroy an instrument quickly. Replace low batteries promptly and perform a visual check occasionally. If the instrument will not be used for an extended period of time, remove the batteries and attach a tag stating that batteries have been removed.
Survey instruments are fragile and expensive.
Protect them from bumps and falls. They may be top-heavy if the detector is in a cradle on top of the instrument. Broken scintillation detectors may cost several hundred dollars to replace. Component failure is relatively rare. Keep all instrument manuals, calibration reports, and related materials for reference in the event of instrument failure.