What does an instruction stating "SHOULD" indicate?

The term "SHOULD" indicates a strongly advised action. In instructional or procedural contexts, using "SHOULD" suggests that while following the recommendation is not mandatory, it is highly encouraged due to the benefits or necessity it provides. This wording implies that adhering to the guidance reflects best practices or optimal conditions, and not doing so may lead to undesirable outcomes.

This contrasts with other terms like "must" or "shall," which denote compulsory actions that are necessary to follow, and "may" or "can," which suggest optional practices or discretionary actions. Understanding this distinction is crucial for interpreting guidelines in safety protocols, where following recommendations can significantly impact safety outcomes.