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Facility should be located
in the most stable and secure location within a structure. Avoid basement
or attic spaces.
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No carpeting in storage
areas. (Carpeting contains contaminants and tends to mask problems such
as moisture, bugs and dust.)
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Baked enamel metal shelving,
either free standing or a compact shelving unit, with bottom shelf 4-6 off
the floor. Shelving should not be affixed to any outside walls.
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Floor load capacity
must be significant, at least 1200 kgs/square meter. Consult an engineer
before planning your facility!
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Shelving should be ergonomically
designed to permit freedom of movement and access for disabled staff. Think
about health and safety! Do not place heavy items too high or too low on
shelves. Aisles should be wide enough to easily retrieve oversize containers
and allow access for carts.
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Fire detection and suppression
systems highly recommended. If water pipes are in the storage area, there
should be drains and a water alarm system (ideally attached to a main alarm
system.) Think about disaster preparedness!
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Records should be stored
in a contained room with secure access (access by staff only.) Reference
and work areas should be separate from storage area to enable better control
of the preservation environment in storage areas.
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Very Important:
Temperature and relative humidity should be maintained at consistent levels
and monitored regularly. Temperature should be 18 - 20 degrees Celsius and
relative humidity should be 35 - 45 %. Severe fluctuations are extremely
damaging!
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Very Important:
Minimal natural light exposure. Cover windows if any with Ultraviolet (UV)
filters and blinds. Cover fluorescent lights with UV sleeves. Illumination
should not exceed 100 lux. Ultraviolet emissions should not exceed 75 lumen.
Room should be dark except to permit access.
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Covered loading docks
or a separate entrance for records delivery is optimal.
