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.

REPP participants walk through collections storage with an assessor to identify hazards.

Step Up Fire Protection

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.

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The Society of American Archivists (SAA) created the MayDay initiative in 2006 and promoted the idea to its members and allied organizations. In 2007, the Heritage Emergency National Task Force, with SAA�s help, expanded the concept to include all kinds of collecting institutions and historic preservation interests.

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The Heritage Emergency National Task Force is a partnership of 40 government agencies and national service organizations formed in 1995. An initiative of Heritage Preservation and the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Task Force has helped to protect cultural heritage from the damaging effects of natural disasters and other emergencies. Find valuable disaster resources at the Task Force Web site, www.heritageemergency.org

For more than 30 years, Heritage Preservation has been the national, nonprofit advocate for the proper care of the objects and sites that embody our history and enrich our lives. Heritage Preservation partners with institutions, organizations, and concerned individuals who care about preserving our past.