Description:

Many museum collections were treated with pesticides to preserve them. Often there are no records and staff is unaware of what might be on the collection or how it may affect researchers. This class is designed for museum curators and others who work with Native American and ethnographic collections. It details methods to mitigate hazards from chemicals and pesticides and health issues stemming from their use on artifacts.

Course Outline:

1. Introduction

2. Background to the problem

3. Identifying pesticides and why they were used

4. Creating a collection history

5. Medical issues and protective practices

6. Conclusions