Hazards in Collections: Reducing the Risk resources

Resources to Support the Safe Management of Hazardous Collections

Museum Development South West led a year-long initiative to support museums in identifying, managing, and safely caring for hazardous objects in their collections.

Hazardous materials are present in many museum collections, from asbestos-containing wartime objects and arsenic-treated taxidermy to radioactive minerals and instruments. Managing these safely can be challenging, particularly for smaller organisations without access to specialist support. Developed in collaboration with conservation specialists at Wiltshire Conservation and Museum Advisory Service (CMAS), Royal Albert Memorial Museum, Bristol Museums and Hampshire Cultural Trust, the project provided a number of museums in the South West with:

• Access to specialist advice and expertise from experienced conservation professionals

• Training and skills development opportunities for both staff and volunteers

• An equipment bank to support safe identification, handling and monitoring of hazardous materials

• Practical guidance and resources to build confidence and improve collections care

The resources are designed to ensure that the museum workforce has the tools and knowledge needed to manage hazards safely and effectively.

The Hazards in Collections project is funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund and Art Fund, with additional support from Arts Council England.

You can read more about the project and access these resources on their website.

Website: southwestmuseums.org