B09_Amendment_03_Attachment_01_35_92_COLLECTION_MOVE_AND_STORAGE_PROCEDURES_AND_ATTACHMENTS_0003.pdf

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COLLECTION TRANSPORT AND STORAGE PROCEDURES

SECTION 01 35 92 – COLLECTION TRANSPORT AND STORAGE PROCEDURES

PART 1 – GENERAL

1.1 SUMMARY

Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park, in Atlanta, GA, will undertake a major rehabilitation in the Martin Luther King, Jr. Birth Home anticipated to begin in 2023. As a result of the work that will occur in the home, all museum objects must be packed, transported, and stored during the extensive renovations. The two-story building contains twelve historically furnished rooms that hold museum collection objects, plus associated furniture.

A. The Contractor will provide labor and materials to:

1. Pack, transport, and store museum objects, including framed works of art, furniture, and household items in the Birth Home prior to construction.

2. At the conclusion of Construction, transport all items to their original locations, reassemble furniture as needed, and unpack boxes in coordination with park staff.

Remove and legally dispose of all crates and packing materials from facility.

1.2 SUBMITTALS

A. Quality Assurance Submittal: Review of the qualifications of the contractor and field supervisor for this section is a requirement of this project.

B. The Contractor shall provide additional fine arts insurance of $1,000,000 using a qualified insurance underwriter. Insurance certificate shall be provided to the CO prior to issuance of Notice to Proceed.

C. In advance of the transport, the Contractor shall submit to the COR for approval, documentation verifying museum quality storage; describing the storage facility and location; description of all proposed storage components within the storage facility; and the specific proposed use of all storage components

D. In advance of the transport, the Contractor shall submit to the COR a proposed procedure and schedule of housekeeping which will occur in the storage space where the Birth Home collection, equipment, and supplies are stored. Housekeeping and inspection of storage spaces shall be performed according to an established and approved schedule.

E. In advance of the transport, the Contractor shall submit an access plan for use by NPS in monitoring museum objects during storage to the COR.

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F. During the period of storage, the Contractor shall submit the environmental monitoring readings from the previous month’s monitoring to the COR by the tenth day of each month.

1.3 QUALITY ASSURANCE

A. Qualifications: An experienced mover who has a minimum of five (5) years of proven experience and has completed crating, packing, transporting, and storage of similar museum objects and to the extent indicated for this Project and whose work has resulted in a record of successful performance. In order to be qualified for this work, the Contractor shall submit for review a list of projects demonstrating the following experience:

1. Demonstrated proficiency in building museum quality storage crates for long term storage of works of art.

2. Demonstrated proficiency in transporting fragile, museum quality art and antiques in areas with low light, low headroom, and narrow stairs.

3. Demonstrated proficiency in transporting heavy museum antiques (e.g., pianos).

4. Demonstrated commitment to safe work practices that protect workers during handling of heavy items and working in cramped spaces.

1.4 STORAGE FACILITY

A. The Contractor shall provide a safe, secure, monitored, museum quality storage environment for the off-site storage of the Birth Home collections, equipment, and supplies. The contractor supplied storage facility shall:

1. Be owned by the Contractor or part of a long-term lease by the Contractor;

2. Be located within the Atlanta Metro area, no farther than 25 miles from the Birth

Home;

3. Be located in a light industrial or mixed commercial location to limit the amount of dust, debris, and air pollution;

4. Be located outside of any areas designated as a 100-year flood zone or next to a body of water that could overflow its boundaries;

5. Be a stand-alone building in excellent condition whose exclusive use is storage.

The preference is for enhanced security in the form of a fence and/or wall at the site perimeter with a locked gate, but this requirement will be reviewed on a site specific basis.

6. Be protected twenty-four (24) hours a day, seven (7) days a week by a recognized professional security company, using a UL/AA rated system reporting to a central station that alerts qualified company personnel as well as local police immediately.

7. Be equipped with an integral alarm system which shall include, but is not limited to, magnetic door contacts, CCTV, and motion sensor detection.

8. Be within a ten (10) minute response time of local police and fire departments.

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9. Be protected by an automatic fire suppression system that is installed, fully operational, and regularly inspected. In addition the appropriate number and type of fire extinguishers shall be in place, professionally inspected, and tested to meet code requirements on a quarterly (or more frequent) basis.

10. Be protected by appropriate IPM (Integrated Pest Management) monitoring equipment that includes the regular monitoring for rodents, insects, mold, and other environmental threats.

11. Flammable liquids and materials shall not be housed in the structure.

B. Maintenance

1. Contractor personnel shall be available to answer any and all emergencies in person. Within two hours of any emergency (including, but not limited to theft, fire, flood, security breach, or other), the Contractor shall notify the COR.

2. There shall be no smoking, eating, or drinking in Contractor-supplied storage spaces.

C. Access

1. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park staff shall be provided access to visit and inspect the storage facility and contents with forty-eight (48) hours’ advance notification. Routine and noninvasive visits/inspections on the part of Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park staff with forty-eight (48) hours’ notice shall be allowed at no cost to the Government. Non-routine visits requiring Contractor staff assistance, unboxing, and/or removal of collection objects will be subject to an hourly charge per the contract.

1.5 STORAGE SPACE

A. The secure storage space within the storage facility shall:

1. Be dedicated and used solely for the storage of museum objects under this contract;

2. Have one door to enhance security and environmental control;

3. Have no windows to the building exterior;

4. Be climate-controlled to museum standards at all times.

Temperature must range between 65° F and 72° F and must not fluctuate more than ± 5° F in any twenty-four (24) hour period.

The permissible relative humidity range is between 40% relative humidity and

65% relative humidity and must not deviate more than 5% in any twenty-four (24) hour period.

During the period of storage, the Contractor shall provide ongoing monitoring of the temperature and relative humidity at all times. A minimum of two devices shall monitor the temperature and relative humidity levels in the space where the Birth Home collection is stored at all times.

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The readings from the previous month’s monitoring shall be submitted to the CO by the 10th day of each month.

5. Be monitored by water detection devices that are hard wired into the building security system;

6. Be free of water, gas, or electric meters, electrical panels, and utility valves that require monitoring and servicing;

7. Be free of water pipes other than those of the required fire suppression system;

8. Be free of fuel pipes;

9. Have adequate back-flow valves on any floor drainpipe in the storage space;

10. Have reduced UV emission lighting or sleeves;

11. Have a layout sufficient for safe movement of objects in, out or between storage units without hindrances.

12. Any storage fixture, pallet rack lower shelf, crated objects or oversized furniture shall be raised off of the floor a minimum of four (4) inches above the surface as a precaution against flooding and to facilitate cleaning and inspection of floors for pests.

13. Have dust covers of polyethylene plastic, cotton muslin, rip stop nylon or other approved material to cover any object not contained in a box, crate, or storage wrap.

14. Have shelving stabilized to prevent tipping or collapsing.

15. Shall be equipped with appropriate museum-quality storage equipment which will:

Minimize the amount of space needed.

Include, but not be limited to pallets and dollies for oversized furniture, pallet racks for crated objects and oversized objects, and general-purpose steel shelving for smaller boxes and objects.

For the purposes of this work, museum-quality storage equipment may include but not be limited to high-quality steel storage racks with solvent-free powder-coatings and chemically inert plastic pallets.

PART 2 – PRODUCTS INTENTIONNALLY LEFT BLANK

PART 3 – EXECUTION

3.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

A. All work will be performed at 501 Auburn Avenue NE, Atlanta, Ga, at Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park between the hours of 7:30 AM. and 4:30 PM with the presence of the COR, or designee.

B. To assure the safety and protection of the museum collection throughout all phases of this project, the Contractor and/or representatives of the Contractor, shall not advertise/publicize/cite their involvement with the packing, transporting, and storage of the museum collection in any way (including, but not limited to, websites, handouts, 01 35 92 - 5 flyers, brochures, newsletters, reports, traditional media, and social networking sites (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TicTok) until after contract closeout.

C. The Contractor shall complete each move to/from the Contractor-provided storage facility by truck transport within one workday. The museum collection, any part thereof, or any operational equipment or supplies shall, at no time, be stored in vehicles overnight.

D. Collections shall not be loaded, unloaded or transported when the outdoor ambient temperature is below 32 degrees Fahrenheit or above 80 degrees Fahrenheit; or during precipitation events.

E. Contractor trucks used to transport collection objects shall be hard sided and clean with no residue of foodstuffs, chemicals, hazardous materials, and/or stains from previous use.

F. Contractor vehicle cargo areas shall be watertight.

G. The collection shall be secured in the Contractor vehicles with appropriate Contractor-provided locks and security seals for the cargo area during transport. At all times that the collection, or any part thereof, is loaded in a truck, and doors of the vehicle are not locked, at least one member of the Contractor staff shall be present to monitor all access to the vehicle.

H. All inventory, cleaning, and packing will follow standards and practices set forth in the National Park Service Museum Handbook. The Park Chief of Resource Management, Regional Curators, and other employees will be provide all necessary staff and supplies to complete inventory that will occur concurrently with contractor packing.

I. Museum objects will not be placed in boxes unless they have been verified on the inventory list supplied by the NPS. Missing objects will be notated. Additionally, an inventory of the contents of each box will be copied two times; one copy will be placed inside the box, one copy will be taped to the exterior of the box, and the master copy will be given to the Chief of Resource Management. Boxes and inventory sheets will be numbered with the relevant room number, followed by sequential Arabic numerals.

J. Packing will follow the attached NPS Museum Handbook standards for shipment. While commercial materials such as bubble wrap may be used to pack, museum objects will require—in all cases—a barrier of acid free paper or other acid-free material such as muslin.

K. Once boxes are sealed, they may not be opened or unpacked unless by NPS curatorial staff. The Contractor staff is not authorized to open any box unless requested by the

COR.

L. Other than the observance of traffic laws, vehicles shall not make stops during transport from the park to the storage facility.

M. No smoking, food or beverage consumption is allowed inside the Birth Home, on the porch of the Birth Home, or in the Contractor-supplied storage facility.

N. Contractor shall supply:

1. All necessary products required for wrapping, packing, and crating.

2. Any necessary heavy equipment such as a forklift and pallet jack.

3. Any necessary loading/unloading equipment such as ramps, dollies, carts, hand trucks and lifts.

4. Any necessary hand tools required for fabricating/adjusting boxes and crates.

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3.2 PACKING AND TRANSPORTING

A. Museum Collection Objects

1. Contractor’s assigned staging area is the concrete patio on southeast corner of the Birth Home. Contractor may place vehicles and equipment in this location and must ensure it is secure and not a safety concern for visitors. Except when moving objects onto Contractor’s moving truck, no equipment may be placed on the park service road adjacent to the area and all city roads must be kept clear at all times.

2. Heavy equipment such as a forklift (if necessary) and pallet jack will not be allowed within the Birth Home interior. They can only be used outside the Home and on the ground. Any such equipment, if needed, shall be Contractor furnished.

3. There is no space in the Birth Home allotted for storage of Contractor packing supplies. The Contractor must limit the amount of packing materials placed in the Birth Home. The weight and combustibility can create hazards for the structure and shall be avoided.

4. Objects are located on the two main floors of the Birth Home. Work shall be completed one-floor at a time to maximize the NPS ability to provide Government oversight. Work may be undertaken in no more than two (2) different areas on one floor at any one time unless approved by the COR, or designee.

5. Contractor may use the elevator for movement of items in or out of the building.

6. Many areas of the home are narrow with tight stairways, hallways, and doors (see attached site and house plans). Contractor is responsible to protect doors and walls of the historic house against any impact and abrasion.

7. All hand-held objects will be individually wrapped in plain newsprint paper and boxed in cardboard boxes. NO PLASTIC PACKING MATERIALS ARE PERMITTED to be in direct contact with items. NPS will label each box.

8. All furniture will be wrapped in plain brown paper. NO PLASTIC PACKING MATERIALS ARE PERMITTED to be in direct contact with items. NPS will label each wrapped piece of furniture.

9. Hand load packed objects and transport them by truck to the contractor’s storage facility.

10. NPS staff will be present on site at storage location during unloading, loading or any interim movement within the facility. Provide three days notice to the COR prior to any collection movement.

11. At the conclusion of the storage period (date will be determined after the conclusion of other contract work going on in the facility), hand load museum objects and return them to the Birth Home. Deliver wrapped and boxed objects to designated rooms on first and second floor, unpack, and place objects as directed by NPS personnel.

12. Remove all trash from facility.

3.3 ATTACHMENTS

A. National Park Service Museum Handbook, Chapter 6: Handling, Packing, and Shipping

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B. Birth Home Collection List for Transport and Storage

END OF SECTION 01 35 92

Chapter 6: Handling, Packing, and Shipping

A. Introduction .................................................................................................................................. 6:1

B. Handling Objects ..........................................................................................................................6:2 Why are careful handling practices important?................................................................................ 6:2 Who needs to learn safe handling practices?.................................................................................. 6:2 What basic practices can I use to safely handle and move objects in the museum? ........................ 6:2 How should I proceed with moving an object? ................................................................................ 6:3 What are the basic rules for handling museum objects?.................................................................. 6:4 What is the best way to protect an object I must pick up? ............................................................... 6:6 When should I wear gloves?........................................................................................................... 6:6 What should I do if I damage an object? ......................................................................................... 6:6 What personal health and safety issues should I consider when handling museum objects?........... 6:7

C. Moving Objects Within the Museum............................................................................................ 6:9 What should I do before moving objects within the museum? ......................................................... 6:9 What do I need to know before moving objects?............................................................................. 6:9

D. Packing and Shipping Preparations .......................................................................................... 6:11 When would I need to pack and ship objects? .............................................................................. 6:11 Why is it important to properly pack objects for shipping? ............................................................. 6:11 How can I learn how to pack museum objects?............................................................................. 6:11 What kind of workspace do I need for packing? ............................................................................ 6:11 How much time should I allow for packing objects?....................................................................... 6:12 What do I need to consider before shipping? ................................................................................ 6:12 How do I determine if the object can be safely shipped? ............................................................... 6:12 How do I ship hazardous materials? ............................................................................................. 6:13 How should I document the condition of the objects?.................................................................... 6:13

E. Packing and Shipping Materials ................................................................................................ 6:13 Why is it important to use the right packing and shipping materials? ............................................. 6:13 What sources of packing materials are available?......................................................................... 6:13 What are good covering and wrapping materials?......................................................................... 6:14 What are good cushioning materials?........................................................................................... 6:15 What materials make good interior boxes? ................................................................................... 6:15 What kind of tape should I use on the box and the wrapping material?.......................................... 6:16 How should I select an exterior container?.................................................................................... 6:16 What kinds of containers do I use for objects that have different weights and sizes? ..................... 6:17 Can I build an exterior container? ................................................................................................. 6:17 Can I use a reusable shipping container? ..................................................................................... 6:17 How do I protect objects from environmental changes during shipping?........................................ 6:17 How should I store packing materials?.......................................................................................... 6:17

F. Packing for Shipping .................................................................................................................. 6:18 How do I decide which way to position an object in a container?................................................... 6:18 How do I cover and wrap an object?............................................................................................. 6:18 How should I cushion the object inside the container? .................................................................. 6:19 What other techniques can I use to cushion objects and provide shock absorption?...................... 6:20 What should I do before closing the container?............................................................................. 6:22 Should I wrap and label the shipping container? ........................................................................... 6:22 What should I put on the label on the exterior of the container? .................................................... 6:22 What kind of identification markings should I put on the box?........................................................ 6:23

G. Shipping Objects........................................................................................................................ 6:23 What things should I consider if I use a professional packer/shipper? ........................................... 6:23 What transportation alternatives are available for shipping museum objects?................................ 6:24 When should I use the U.S. Postal Service?................................................................................. 6:24 When should I use commercial package delivery services? .......................................................... 6:24 When should I use an art shuttle van or special product truck? ..................................................... 6:25 When should I use airfreight? ....................................................................................................... 6:25 Should I use a courier?................................................................................................................. 6:25

H. Receiving and Unpacking the Container................................................................................... 6:26 How should I unpack a container?................................................................................................ 6:26 Should I check for insect infestation?............................................................................................ 6:27 What do I do if an object is damaged, lost, or destroyed during shipping?..................................... 6:27

I. Selected Bibliography ................................................................................................................. 6:28

List of Figures Figure 6.1. Proper Handling Techniques. ..................................................................................... 6:1 Figure 6.2. Carts and Trays Minimize Handling............................................................................ 6:2 Figure 6.3. Equipment and Supplies ............................................................................................ 6:3 Figure 6.4. Hold Objects at the Strongest Point............................................................................ 6:5 Figure 6.5. Wear Gloves and Use Both Hands. ............................................................................ 6:6 Figure 6.6. How to Lift Properly and Avoid Injury.......................................................................... 6:7 Figure 6.7. The Proper Way to Lift a Chair................................................................................... 6:8 Figure 6.8. The Proper Way to Lift a Small, Framed Photograph.................................................. 6:8 Figure 6.9. The Proper Way to Lift and Carry a Small Textile Object ............................................ 6:8 Figure 6.10. Use Trays and Padding to Prevent Damage............................................................. 6:10 Figure 6.11. Pad and Separate Parts........................................................................................... 6:19 Figure 6.12. Wrapping, Padding, and Packing for Shipping an Object .......................................... 6:20 Figure 6.13. Objects Double-boxed for Shipping. ......................................................................... 6:21 Figure 6.14. Example of Written Handling Rules for NPS Park Collections. .................................. 6:30

CHAPTER 6: HANDLING, PACKING, AND SHIPPING

A. Introduction

This chapter outlines handling, packing, and shipping guidelines for safely moving museum objects. By following these guidelines, you can prevent damage to the objects in your museum collection. The chapter includes:

• basic practices to ensure object safety

• guidelines for handling objects

• guidelines for moving objects inside the museum

• materials and techniques to properly pack for shipping

• basic directions for shipping objects

• guidelines for unpacking an object

• bibliography of references on handling, packing, and shipping museum objects

Specific guidance for handling different types of objects can be found in the appendices of this volume for each object type.

Figure 6.1. Proper Handling Techniques.

Proper handling techniques are essential to museum housekeeping practices.

NPS Museum Handbook, Part I (1999) 6:1

B. Handling Objects

When you touch, lift, or hold an object you are handling it. When you work in a museum you will have to handle objects for a variety of tasks.

To do this safely and effectively it is important to learn and practice good handling techniques.

1. Why are careful handling practices important?

Preventive conservation starts with careful handling. Proper handling is largely a matter of common sense and is necessary for the care and protection of objects. However, good handling techniques are not always obvious. Museum procedures require specialized handling knowledge that must be learned. For example, metals can corrode after being handled without gloves. Paintings may crack as a result of bumping and jarring during movement. Mishandling can cause obvious examples of damage, such as shattered glass in a frame, broken ceramics, torn documents, or dents and scratches in metal objects.

2. Who needs to learn safe handling practices?

3. What basic practices can I use to safely handle and move objects in the museum?

Figure 6.2. Carts and Trays Minimize Handling.

The use of equipment and supplies such as carts and trays minimizes the need to handle objects.

Anyone who handles museum objects needs to be aware of the guidelines in this chapter. If your day-to-day responsibilities require you to handle objects, you need to be sensitive to their delicate nature. Regular activities like cataloging, photographing, housekeeping, and packing for shipment all require you to handle and work with objects.

Write guidelines.

Establish written guidelines to help foster a professional attitude and respect for objects. Provide all staff with a set of written guidelines. Post the guidelines in museum storage areas. Be sure that all staff who handle objects read the guidelines. Researchers who handle objects should read the guidelines when they first use the collections. Staff should read the guidelines when hired and review them periodically. See Figure 6.14 for an example of handling guidelines you can use.

6:2 NPS Museum Handbook

4. How should I proceed with moving an object?

Train your staff.

Don’t handle museum objects without training. Training should be an on-going activity, particularly when new types of objects are being handled. Make “hands-on” experience a part of all training for individuals working with collections. Re-training reminds people of the importance of proper handling techniques. You should give a special training session whenever new staff members assist in handling objects.

Use proper supplies and equipment.

Only use equipment that is of good quality and in good condition.

Equipment for moving objects includes flatbeds, carts, dollies, pallet lifters, polyethylene tote pans, and object support trays. The supplies you use with the equipment to move objects include polyethylene foam pads for lining carts and trays, quilted furniture pads, acid-free tissue, and clean cotton or plastic gloves. You may need to acquire personal protective equipment such as lab coats and smocks, safety glasses, dust masks, and personally fitted respirators. Supplies and equipment are listed in more detail below.

Figure 6.3. Equipment and Supplies.

Equipment and supplies for handling and moving museum objects include trays, padding, tissue, gloves, and carts.

Consider safety first.

Before moving an object, inspect equipment to ensure that the object and the handler will be safe during the move. Do you have the proper personal protective equipment? Identify the space where you will move the object. Make sure there is room to house the object in its new location. If you have inadequate equipment, supplies, or space, postpone moving the object.

Plan your move.

Never consider moving an object routine work, even for daily housekeeping tasks. You must plan each step in the process before handling or moving a museum object. Where will you stand before picking up the object? Is there an open space to receive it? Planning helps keep handling to a minimum. When you plan, it helps you remember that each museum object is special. Keep in mind the following factors when you plan to move an object:

• Do you need to move the object? Is moving the object absolutely necessary? If not, don’t move it.

NPS Museum Handbook, Part I (1999) 6:3

5. What are the basic rules for handling museum objects?

• What are the object’s structural characteristics and condition? Is it strong enough to withstand the move?

• Is there evidence of previous repairs? Review catalog records, condition reports, and photographs and examine the object to identify previous damage that may make the object especially fragile. Is there documentation that gives recommendations on moving hazards or safe moving techniques?

• What is the safest way to lift the item? How will you need to lift and carry the object to protect it from damage?

• How many people are required? Do you need help to move the object?

• Where is the object’s new location? Is it large enough to properly house the object? Is the environment appropriate?

• What route will you use? Is it clear of obstructions?

• Will the personal health and safety of the handler be at risk? Do you have the proper moving equipment (for example, lumbar support belts or pallet jacks) to avoid physical strain? Do you need to wear a lab coat or dust mask?

When you handle objects use common sense and follow these basic rules to prevent damage to objects:

• Treat every museum object as if it were irreplaceable and the most valuable piece in the collection.

• Handle objects only when necessary.

• Move only one object at a time. Note: Small items can be moved together in a tote pan if they are separated and supported by padding.

• Never hurry.

• Take no risks.

• Never smoke, eat, or drink while handling objects.

• Avoid wearing anything that might damage objects by scratching or snagging the surface (for example, rings and other jewelry, watches, belt buckles, nametags, service badges).

• Use pencils, not pens, when working near objects.

• Keep hands clean, even when wearing gloves.

• Wear appropriate gloves.

− Wear white cotton gloves when handling most objects.

6:4 NPS Museum Handbook

− Wear plastic gloves (latex or nitrile gloves) when handling these types of objects:

slick objects like ceramics or glass objects with oily or tacky surfaces that can attract cotton fibers fragile or damaged paper or other organic materials that may catch on cotton fibers some natural history specimens

• Know the condition of an object before moving it.

− Don’t lift by protruding handles or rims, which are often structurally weak.

− Fragile objects should be given additional support, such as a tray or mount, before being lifted.

• Never layer or stack objects when moving them.

• Allow yourself plenty of space in which to work.

• Store objects so they can be easily moved without disturbing other objects.

• Tie on acid-free, cotton string tags or number trays, boxes, and bags so numbers can be easily seen without handling the object.

• Save all information associated with an object (for example, tags or labels).

• Remember to lift items properly.

Figure 6.4. Hold Objects at the Strongest Point. A teapot should be handled by the base rather than by the handle or spout.

The less museum objects are handled, the longer they will survive.

NPS Museum Handbook, Part I (1999) 6:5

6. What is the best way to protect an object I must pick up?

7. When should I wear gloves?

When you pick up an object:

• Identify the strongest part of the object and hold it at this point.

• Take your time, handle only one object at a time, and use both hands.

• When an object has more than one part, for example, a teapot and lid, handle each part separately.

• Don’t lift objects by protruding parts such as handles or rims.

• Stabilize any loose parts that cannot be removed.

• Move slowly and concentrate on what you’re doing.

• Use a support board or tray whenever possible.

Gloves protect objects from contaminants such as dirt, salts, acids, and oils on your hands. Even clean hands can transfer these damaging substances.

Wear clean, white cotton gloves except when handling ceramics, smooth glass, oily or tacky surfaces, fragile or damaged paper, or some natural history specimens. (Refer to Chapter 11 for a discussion of protective gloves to use when handling natural history specimens.) When handling these objects, wear tight-fitting latex or nitrile gloves for better gripping.

Even when wearing cotton gloves, wash your hands frequently. Be careful not to rub your face and hair and then handle objects. Body oils may be transferred to the object and cause damage.

Figure 6.5. Wear Gloves and Use Both Hands.

Use two hands and wear gloves when handling museum objects.

Wear clean, white cotton gloves for handling many museum objects.

Wear tight fitting latex or nitrile gloves when handling slick objects like ceramics or glass, objects with oily or tacky surfaces, fragile and damaged paper and other organic materials that can catch on cotton fibers, and some natural history specimens.

8. What should I do if I damage an object?

If you damage an object, report the damage. Damage should be recorded in the condition and condition description fields of the ANCS+ catalog record.

Follow the instructions in the ANCS+ User Manual on reporting condition.

S M H db k P t II Ch t 3 f i f ti h t d

6:6 NPS Museum Handbook

9. What personal health and safety issues should I consider when handling museum objects?

See Museum Handbook, Part II, Chapter 3, for information on how to do condition reporting.

Take photographs of the damage if possible. Save all pieces and carefully pack them so that no further damage occurs before a conservator can make repairs. Small pieces may be wrapped and bagged in self-sealing polyethylene bags labeled with the appropriate object identification information.

It is very important to follow health and safety precautions when handling museum objects.

• Practice safe lifting techniques. Remember to lift with your legs and not your back. Use proper personal support equipment, such as a lumbar support belt. Don’t lift more than you can safely carry. See Figure 6.6 for a list of techniques that will help protect you from injury.

• Be careful how you handle potentially dangerous objects (for example, firearms, ammunition, and medicines). See Conserve O Gram 2/5, “Fossil Vertebrates as Radon Source: Health Update”; 2/8, “Hantavirus Disease Health and Safety Update”; and 2/10, “Hazardous Materials in Your Collection.”

• Don’t touch or inhale fumes or particles from objects treated with pesticides such as arsenic. See Conserve O Gram 2/2, “Ethylene Oxide Health and Safety Update”; 2/3, “Arsenic Health and Safety Update”;

and 2/4, “Dichlorvos (Vapona) Update.”

1. Be sure you have firm footing and keep your legs apart.

2. Bend at the knees.

3. Use your leg and stomach muscles, not back muscles, when lifting from a stooped position.

4. Get close to the object and keep it near your body.

5. Avoid twisting; pivot using your feet.

6. Keep your back straight.

Figure 6.6. How to Lift Properly and Avoid Injury.

NPS Museum Handbook, Part I (1999) 6:7

Figure 6.7. The Proper Way to Lift a Chair.

Figure 6.8. The Proper Way to Lift a Small, Framed Photograph.

Figure 6.9. The Proper Way to Lift and Carry a Small Textile Object.

6:8 NPS Museum Handbook

C. Moving Objects Within the Museum

1. What should I do before moving objects within the museum?

Preventive conservation continues with the careful movement of objects.

When you move objects you increase the risk of damage and loss because you are both handling them and changing their location.

Before you move objects within the museum for dusting or cleaning, or any other purpose, be familiar with the rules you should follow that help reduce the risk of damage. Planning is essential before handling or moving any museum objects. Think through your plan so that you lift and move objects properly. With advanced planning, you can keep movement of objects to a minimum.

Moving puts an object at its greatest risk.

2. What do I need to know before moving objects?

Evaluate the object’s condition and structure before moving it. Review object catalog records for condition reports, photographs, or other instructions that may provide information on the object’s stability.

Know the object’s condition and structure.

• Check the catalog card for any record of past damages.

• Check for loose parts or fragile surfaces. Careful examination will usually reveal if an object is not stable.

• Do I have to move the object? Constantly handling and moving objects can cause them harm.

Use safe handling practices.

Know the rules for handling museum objects. See Section B of this chapter. When lifting objects:

• Use both hands.

• Lift most objects from the base and/or close to the center of gravity.

• Don’t try to push or drag objects across surfaces.

• Don’t handle objects by handles or rims.

• Place objects inside containers (trays or boxes) for carrying (see Figure 6.9).

• Make sure objects are padded using museum materials (for example, polyethylene foam or acid-free tissue).

• Secure objects in separate compartments in a box or tray to prevent them from being damaged.

• Don’t allow objects to stick out beyond the sides of the containers.

NPS Museum Handbook, Part I (1999) 6:9

Figure 6.10. Use Trays and Padding to Prevent Damage.

These pipe bowls were placed in individual specimen trays within a larger tray to prevent damage during movement.

Use trained, experienced staff.

When selecting people to move objects:

• Evaluate the experience of the people handling and moving the objects.

• Assign specific tasks to each person.

• Review the move plan verbally with participants before moving the objects so that all understand their duties and assignments.

Use proper equipment.

Make sure you have the proper moving equipment so that the move is safe for both objects and people.

• Use the correct type of equipment. Useful equipment includes trays or baskets to support objects and flatbeds, carts, dollies, and pallet lifters to move objects.

• Inspect the equipment to make sure that it is safe for both the objects and the person handling the objects before you begin.

• Pad carts and other surfaces with polyethylene foam or another stable material to protect the objects.

• Postpone moving the objects if you don't have proper equipment, supplies, space, and trained helpers.

• Use rubber doorstops to prop doors open before you pass through.

• Use personal protective equipment when appropriate.

Clear the new location and the route there.

Before moving the object:

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D. Packing and Shipping Preparations

1. When would I need to pack and ship objects?

2. Why is it important to properly pack objects for shipping?

3. How can I learn how to pack museum objects?

4. What kind of workspace do I need for packing?

• Make sure the location is ready to safely house the object.

• Know which route to take, which equipment to use, and how much time you’ll need to complete the move.

• Provide written instructions if needed.

• Be aware of all surfaces that the object may contact (for example, doors, floors, and walls).

• Study the spaces through which the object may pass (for example, doorways, stairwells, display areas).

• Avoid tight areas.

• Don’t move objects during peak visitation periods or open hours, if possible.

• If transporting the object outdoors, move it when the weather conditions are good, with no rain, snow, or extreme heat. If this isn’t possible, then take appropriate precautions such as waterproof coverings and packing to provide environmental buffering.

• Be aware of weather conditions at the final destination to determine the type of protective container needed.

Sometimes you must pack and ship objects to send them to a new location.

For example, you may need to pack and ship objects for outgoing loans or conservation work.

The hazards of shipping an object are numerous. Improper packing can cause an object to be permanently damaged or destroyed. A properly packed container is critical to ensure your objects arrive safely.

Begin by following the rules for the proper handling of objects. See Sections B and C of this chapter. The best way to learn how to pack is to work with an experienced packer. Learn to pack different types of materials, such as textiles and glass. Each object requires a unique packing solution. Museum professional associations often offer classes on packing and shipping.

You need enough room to work comfortably with the objects you are packing. For small objects you will need a table or desk; for larger objects you may need to have a portion of a room. For these larger objects, figure that you will need a space at least three times the size of the object you plan to pack. If you do a lot of packing, you should have a permanent packing area. When setting up a packing area:

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5. How much time should I allow for packing objects?

6. What do I need to consider before shipping?

7. How do I determine if the object can be safely shipped?

• Select an area that can be cleared so you have sufficient room to safely pack the objects.

• Choose an area close to where the objects are stored to prevent unnecessary handling. Avoid continuously moving objects up and down stairways, around tight corners, or through narrow doorways.

• Pad the table with a few sheets of 1/8" polyethylene foam. Cover the polyethylene foam with 4-mil polyethylene sheeting. Securely fasten the sheeting beneath the work surface.

• When packing textile objects, pad surfaces with unbleached muslin over polyester batting.

• Remove all other tools and materials from the table while packing.

Packing can take several hours or even days, depending on the object.

Allow yourself plenty of time to pack correctly. Don’t hurry. Make sure each object is secure before moving onto the next.

When you are preparing to ship an object, plan carefully. A lot of damage can occur during shipping. Movers may jar or drop objects. Airplane vibrations, exposure to bad weather, and rapid fluctuations in relative humidity can damage objects. Proper packing and shipping will limit these and other travel hazards including:

• shock and vibration

• sudden changes in temperature and humidity

• mishandling

• theft, vandalism, and loss

Before moving a museum object outside of the building, consider:

• the object’s fragility

• the shipping method

• the climate through which the objects will travel

• the climate at the object’s destination

Carefully examine the object to see if its condition allows for safe travel.

Be sure to check the condition and structure of items that can be very fragile. These include glassware, photos on glass, wooden musical instruments, paintings on wood, pastel paintings, charcoal drawings, and cracked porcelain. See the appendices in this volume for the particular problems you may find with different materials.

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8. How do I ship hazardous materials?

9. How should I document the condition of the objects?

To ship hazardous materials, such as nitrate film or firearms, you must follow special shipping requirements. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) has specific guidelines for shipping certain types of firearms. Contact the ATF’s National Firearms Act Branch at (202) 927- 8330 to determine the shipping requirements for your collection. Work with the company that will do the shipping to find out specific requirements for other types of hazardous materials. Conserve O Gram 14/8, “Caring for Cellulose Nitrate Film,” gives information on shipping nitrate film.

It is important to document the condition of an object before moving it. If an object is damaged, the documentation will help you determine the extent of the damage.

See Museum Handbook, Part II, Chapter 5: Outgoing Loans, for information about recording condition for loans. You may want to use the Object Condition Report (Form 10-637) to document an object’s condition.

For insurance and other purposes, when documenting condition:

• Use a portable light source and magnifying lens to help identify markings.

• Note and document areas that have been previously repaired.

• Carefully examine objects for pest infestation.

E. Packing and Shipping Materials

1. Why is it important to use the right packing and shipping materials?

2. What sources of packing materials are available?

Packing materials can adversely affect the object. Some materials are abrasive and can damage objects. Friable objects (for example, ancient glass, charcoal, pastel and conte crayon drawings, corroded metals) are susceptible to mechanical damage from even minor abrasion. Acidic tissue should not come in contact with objects that are acid sensitive. Some plastic bubbles and foams may leave imprints on polished metals, varnished woods, oriental lacquer and other smooth-surfaced objects. Materials that come in direct contact with the object must not stain, be abrasive or acidic, or off-gas damaging chemicals. To prevent these types of damage you should select appropriate materials for each packing situation. Never re-use packing materials on different types of objects as residues and dirt can be transferred.

This section describes materials commonly used in packing objects for transit. The bibliography lists a variety of references that can aid you in selecting proper materials and techniques. You can also contact your regional/Support Office (SO) curator or a conservator if you have questions about a specific material.

New packing products are continually appearing on the market. Contact museum packers to learn about new materials. If you choose a new material, be sure it has been tested and generally approved by the museum field. See NPS Tools of the Trade for some suggestions. You can obtain other supplies from the following sources:

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3. What are good covering and wrapping materials?

• General Services Administration Federal Supply Schedule (look under "Cushioning Materials” or "Packaging and Packing Supplies")

• Storage of Natural History Collections: Ideas and Practical Solutions, put out by the Society for Preservation of Natural History Collections (listed in the bibliography)

• local telephone directories (look under "Boxes," "Packaging Containers," and "Packaging Materials")

• businesses specializing in packaging for high-tech electronic equipment

Ask your regional/SO curator if you are unsure about any materials you want to use.

Good covering and wrapping materials include:

• Acid-free glassine paper is stiff, translucent, and glossy in texture.

You should use glassine only for short-term storage (less than 30 days).

Glassine is recommended for covering paintings, bottles with labels, or objects with a friable or oily/tacky surface. Use only new glassine paper since it deteriorates and becomes acidic over time.

• Tyvek is an alternative to glassine. This material is available in soft textile-like or slick, smooth finishes. Tyvek is a type of high-density polyethylene and is stable for long-term use.

• Tightly woven nylon fabric can be used to cover cushioning foams to protect the object. Make sure nylon doesn’t come into contact with the surface of delicate materials as it can be abrasive.

• Cotton knit (available in rolls) is another good covering material. It is a good, soft cover for polyethylene foam supports.

• Unbleached washed muslin can be used for wrapping sculpture and textiles. Wash muslin in hot water several times before using it to remove sizing and make it softer.

• Soft, unbuffered acid-free tissue paper is used for covering basketry, metal, and textiles. It is also good for making pads to fill empty spaces and covering appendages on objects.

• Mylar is a clear, stable polyester film that serves as a good primary protector for paper. Mylar has an electrostatic charge. Never use it on pastels or charcoal drawings.

• Blanket pads or quilts are used for covering large sculpture and furniture.

• Acid-free folders are used to contain unframed prints, documents, and photographs.

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4. What are good cushioning materials?

5. What materials make good interior boxes?

Examples of when and where to use these materials can be found in the references listed in the bibliography.

Cushioning materials are designed to absorb shock and buffer the humidity.

These materials are usually foam products that you can use in a variety of cushioning…