The document is valid for light-microscope investigations according to clause 4.1 which are carried out in medical-microbiological laboratories according to DIN 58956-1 for the portrayal, recognition and identification of microorganisms originating from natural or pre-treated specimens or from cultures of microorganisms. The aim of this standard is the assurance of the quality investigations by optical (light) microscopy by the establishment of minimum requirements for the work-station, the technical equipment and methods used.