Nitrate and acetate film health hazards

Deteriorated negatives can pose immediate health risks (to my
knowledge, the long term effects of exposure are not as clear).  The
following passage and references are from a Technical Bulletin I
prepared for the Rocky Mountain Conservation Center in 1993.

"Deteriorated negatives, especially nitrates, can emit a noticeable
and noxious odor.  Such gases can cause skin, eye, and respiratory
irritations.  Allergic sensitivity has also been noted, as has
dizziness and lightheadedness.  Handle deteriorated negatives in a
well-ventilated area.  Wear neoprene gloves, remove contact lenses,
and limit exposure times.  It is also advisable to wear goggles and
a respirator with acid/organic vapor filter cartridges."

Selected bibliography:

    Babin, Angela, M.S.  "Nitrocellulose Film Hazards in
        Conservation," Center for Safety in the Arts, New York,
        1991.

    Hollinshead, Patricia W., Ert, Mark D., Holland, Steven C., and
        Kathy Velo.  "Deteriorating Negatives:  A Health Hazard in
        Collection Management," (Unpublished Manuscript).  Tucson,
        AZ:  Arizona State Museum, 1987.

    National Park Service.  "Curatorial Care of Nitrate Negatives,
        Appendix M," from the Museum Handbook, Washington DC:  NPS,
        Department of the Interior, September, 1990.

Paul Messier
Conservator of Photographs
Brookline, MA

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                  Conservation DistList Instance 8:86
                 Distributed: Saturday, April 29, 1995
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