Preserving the Collection: Disaster Planning, Response & Recovery

 Mold is a danger to collections and to people. Don’t forget to take care of yourself while you take care of your collections.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5nbAa0ekcXM

 Does an object in your collection show signs of a fungal infestation, but can’t be removed from display? Or perhaps your conservation facility is off-site, or simply does not have the treatment space available? On page 3 of this 2010 IIC newsletter, conservators from the Islamic Arts Museum of Malaysia describe the development of the Fungus Trolley, which allows them to treat artifacts safely in the display areas. https://www.iiconservation.org/system/files/publications/journal/2010/b2010_3.pdf

  When disaster strikes, fortunately for our communities first responders and volunteers come to the rescue. As we know from many tragic examples of great heroism and ultimate sacrifice, unfortunately first responders and volunteers are often not sufficiently protected and during an emergency put the safety of their community first, over their own health and safety. Before responding to an emergency, think about Personal Protective Equipment that will protect you as you are generously helping your community. The American Institute for Conservation (AIC) has created and maintains a Wiki page dedicated to PPE: http://www.conservation-wiki.com/wiki/Personal_Protective_Equipment_(PPE) In particular for protective gloves this page offers a table with the type of glove safe to use to handle different categories of chemicals: http://www.conservation-wiki.com/wiki/PPE_Chemical_Protective_Material_Selection_Guide Regarding tight fitting air-purifying respirators, necessa...