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Proper Care and
Handling of Collections
Guidelines for the
In addition to preventing damage caused by fire, flooding, pests, and other dangers
commonly associated with collections, it is our job as preservationists and collections
managers to think about the harm inflicted by human interaction. Proper training and
following basic guidelines can make an immense difference in lengthening an item’s
life. Remember to consult and follow each institution’s particular guidelines.
1. The Body
Before looking at the collection, we must first assess the potential risks our clothing or style choices are bringing into the collection, as well as how we can protect ourselves from chemicals, mould, or other substances that could be found on the items.
Tie back long hair
Avoid wearing jewelry or other dangling items.
Keep hands clean and wear gloves to handle items
2. The Environment
Next, it is time to look at our surroundings. Is there anything in our workspace that might damage the collection items? This assessment must be done constantly during the workday, as people and tools move around the area.
Keep your workspace clean Use a combination of dish soap and water for clean- ing. If necessary, cover with paper wrapping for extra protection.
Avoid food or drink in the area If it can’t be avoided, keep containers covered or sealed to avoid spillage.
Be wary of tripping hazards Be on the look- out, especially when moving items from one location to anoth- er. These hazards can include bags, backpacks, carts, or chargers.
Make room for your tools Keep digital cameras, laptops, and notebooks away from collec- tion items. Make sure the work- space is large enough and keep it decluttered.
Use proper writing implements No ink is allowed near the items. Use 2B pencils for notetaking. Keep them away from collection items.
3. The Collection
Now that we’ve ensured a clean and safe space to work with the collection, it is important to treat objects with the utmost care and thought.
Although these recommendations apply to most collections, different types of objects may require specific handling procedures. Always plan ahead and think through every procedure before handling any object.
These guidelines are meant to protect us as well as the collection items. By following them, we’re helping prevent potential workplace injuries that could come from mishandling an object. Be safe and don’t be afraid to ask for help!
Further reading
Buck, Rebecca A. and Jean Allman Gilmore, eds. “Object Handling” in Museum Registration Methods. 5th ed. Washington, DC: The AAM Press, 2010. Mason, Janet. “Handling Heritage Objects”in Preventive Conservation Guidelines for Collections. December 14, 2018. https://www.canada.ca/en/conservation-institute/services/preventive-conservation/guidelines-collections/handling-heritage-objects.h tml#a2.
Stacking · Don’t stack too high. · Stack according to weight and size. Larger and heavier boxes go at the bottom of the pile.
Moving · Plan your route. · Use carts to move items from one location to another. · Always push the carts, don’t pull. · Take several trips if necessary.
Viewing · Keep boxes upright. · Don’t open/view boxes on your lap. ·If possible, consult an object’s condition report before handling. · View one item or file at a time. Keep items in the right order. · Use a light table for viewing negatives (espe- cially glass negatives). · Store items properly when not in use. · Make sure smaller items are not hidden under larger ones. Other recommendations
Wash your hands with soap and water. Hand sanitizer often contains moisturizers that can transfer to objects.
Use weights (suede pouches, vinyl weights, pieces of glass...) to keep objects from rolling or flying.
Support bound volumes with book wedges to cause as little pressure on the spine as possible.
Nitrile gloves are often the preferred option. Choose the type of gloves that best suits the collection’s needs.
