Hidden Health Hazards: Toxins in Museum Collections

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Museum collections frequently contain hidden hazards that put staff at risk. The application of chemical pesticides, including arsenic and mercury, on collection objects began in the eighteenth century as a preventive measure to protect against insects, rodents, and mold. In addition to these poisons, some collection objects are made of materials inherently hazardous to human health including silica dust, lead paint, and infectious agents. It is important to ensure all museum staff who come into direct contact with collection objects are aware of exposure risks and know how to identify and protect themselves from these often-invisible hazards. METHODS: Through a literature review including research from the Canadian Conservation Institute, Cambridge University Press, and PubMed, we have identified five hazardous materials that pose a threat to museum workers. We have highlighted policies and practices staff can use to protect themselves from these hazards. RESULTS:Silica dust, lead paint, arsenic, mercury, and infectious agents are five common hazards found within museum collections. Archeological artifacts and stone sculptures can be sources of silica dust. When handling or cleaning these materials, personal protective equipment should be worn, and the area must be well-ventilated. Many historic homes contain lead paint and wallpaper that has been treated with arsenic. Lead paint should be closely monitored for flaking and peeling. Many textiles, papers, and ethnographic collections have been treated with arsenic and mercury. Some of these collections contain infectious agents as well. It is important to isolate objects treated with these toxins in polypropylene bags and create a label warning of their contamination. CONCLUSIONS:Many hidden hazards exist within museum collections. It is important for all museum staff to be aware of possible exposure risks. Museums must also ensure they have policies and practices in place to safely handle hazardous materials and to mitigate staff and visitor exposures. KEYWORDS: Occupational exposures, Policy and practices, Risk assessment