Hidden Health Hazards: Toxins in Museum Collections

Abstract

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. 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.