Elements and Performance Criteria
- Monitor the environment
- Monitor environmental conditions at regular intervals in accordance with needs of the collection and identify agents of deterioration affecting the collection
- Respond appropriately to changes in the environment to protect cultural material
- Adjust/control environmental conditions within scope of own responsibility or report to relevant colleagues
- Assess condition of cultural material
- Examine and assess the condition of items in the appropriate location using techniques within the scope of own expertise that meet conservation guidelines
- Create or review documentation and accurately record current condition of item, including evidence of change, damage or degradation
- Apply a general knowledge of deterioration patterns to collection monitoring
- Identify the need for and obtain appropriate expert advice where necessary
- Discuss condition of material and conservation needs with experts in a manner which reflects sound general knowledge of issues to be considered
- Implement preventive conservation activities
- Undertake preventive conservation activities in accordance with organisation's policies and procedures
- Use best practice guidelines, cultural protocols and relevant specialist conservation advice to guide all activities
- Follow health, safety and environmental requirements at all times
- Identify the need for assistance and consult with a specialist conservator in relation to issues which arise in collection care
- Accurately document details of preventive conservation activities undertaken in accordance with organisational procedures