GUIDELINES FOR THE CURATION OF GEOLOGICAL MATERIALS

of all of these specimens in the event of a disaster affecting the storage location.
This latter risk can be mitigated by the application of especially stringent
measures to safeguared type collections such as fire-resistant cabinets, high
security locks etc.
3.5.4. Postscript
Whatever method of arrangement is adopted within geological collections, there
is an obligation of the curator to manage it efficiently, and to ensure that a full
description of it is available for all users, and his curatorial successors.
PREAMBLE
The security of collections and records includes the prevention of damage or loss
by theft, vandalism, fire, flood, environmental failure (e.g. air-conditioning
breakdown) and human or natural catastrophe during storage, transit, study or
processing and exhibition. A fundamental precaution is the maintenance of
duplicate documentation (e.g. accession records) on separate premises. Detailed
coverage of security measures applicable in museums is contained in Johnson &
Horgan (1979), to which those involved are referred, as this section gives only a
bare outline.
3.6.1. The risks
Even in store, geological material is at risk from theft, failure of environmental
control equipment, flood and fire. These risks can be minimised by taking the
standard precautions such as the use of locking fire-resistant cabinets (particularly
for rare and valuable materials) and more generally by ensuring that buildings are
well maintained, sound and secure. It is important periodically to inspect all
storage areas, giving particular attention to those which are more isolated.
Various security measures can be adopted which warn against fire (smoke
detectors, alarms), flood (alarms) and theft (intruder alarms and monitors).
Security advice is available from local police (Crime Prevention Officer) or fire
service (Fire Prevention Officer) or from the National Museum Security Adviser
(Appendix 2B).
3.6.2. Theft
Loss through theft can be minimised by restricting and controlling access to
collections and ensuring that all visitors are supervised unless they are known and
trusted. Certain types of material such as gems and other collectable or valuable
objects may require special protection whether in store or on display. In general
it is prefereable to provide a good physical barrier against theft than to install
surveillance equipment which may detect or deter rather than prevent theft.