REPP Pilot Museums Make Mitigation Happen

During assessments conducted through Heritage Preservation’s pilot Risk Evaluation and Planning Program (REPP), preservation professionals and emergency responders identified ways for the participating museums to mitigate hazards and safeguard people and collections. Since the assessments in the fall of 2008, staff from the 15 pilot museums have already implemented simple but significant mitigation measures. Here are some examples:

Ensure a Safe Evacuation

• Clear or create a path to vital fire and HVAC control panels.
• Place flashlights in strategic spots throughout the facility and periodically check batteries.
• Post up-to-date floor plans and emergency exit routes at multiple locations throughout the facility.
• Create a map showing the location of all exits, hand-held fire extinguishers, sprinkler heads, and shut-off valves.
• Assign specific responsibilities to staff members to ensure safe evacuation of the building.
• Contact the American Red Cross or local or university health departments to conduct CPR and first aid training for staff.

Step Up Fire Protection

REPP participants walk through collections storage with an assessor to identify hazards. Photo by Heritage Preservation.

• Inspect and map smoke detectors.
• Install additional smoke detectors in seldom-visited areas of the building.
• Cover exposed outdoor electrical sockets.
• Consult with the fire marshal on the need for additional fire extinguishers.
• Remove hazardous materials (paint, solvents, etc.) from the building, leaving only small quantities of necessary materials in a safety cabinet away from collections.

Protect Collections

• Organize collections storage to allow optimal coverage by the fire suppression system.
• Prioritize collections for evacuation and salvage.
• Create a "crash cart" that contains basic emergency supplies like plastic sheeting, blotter paper, and gloves.

The Risk Evaluation and Planning Program is a pilot project of Heritage Preservation, supported by a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services. REPP provided each participating institution with an evaluation of risks to its collections and is helping staff to create or update an emergency plan.