Enemies of Paper - External Threats
The most dramatic damage to your paper records can occur simply as a result of poor storage conditions.

Always consider the following:
- Heat & humidity
- UV Light
- Pollution
- Dust & Dirt
- Air Circulation
Or your documents could suffer:
- Shrinkage
- Mould damage
- Discolouration
- Brittleness
- Insect damage
- Total destruction
Try to control the heat and humidity. Optimum conditions are 20°C± 1°C and 50%± 5% relative humidity.
Make sure shelving units and cabinets are appropriate to the types of records being stored. Wrapping and boxing will offer effective protection from environmental threats. There is a good range of quality archival products on the market.
Disasters Do Happen
Fires - floods - vermin - pest infestations
There are several strategies which should always be adopted to minimise the impact of disasters, including:
- Disaster preparedness
- Building maintenance
- Regular Inspection

