ASBESTOS RISKS IN OBJECTS

The object is a model of a pony drawn sledge as used for Antarctic explorations in 1910, displayed inside a sealed glass and wood case and packed inside a custom made correx box with ethafoam padding. A textured plaster has been used on the model to imitate snow and it is assumed that this may contain asbestos. In accordance with current regulations, as the object is in a sealed case it can be packed and transported by the owner upon completion of a risk assessment and method statement.

The object needs to be packed in accordance with current health and safety guidelines for an object containing asbestos. It is recommended the following instructions are followed:

• Ensure the object has an asbestos hazard warning label visible.
• Wear appropriate PPE: nitrile gloves.
• Ensure PPE is available in case of breakage: mask, hazard warning tape, signage instructing area is ‘no entry’.
• Remove the object from its shelf in the store to a table near by for packing. The use of a trolley may be required in order to complete this. Move the object whilst still inside the current correx box. DO NOT TAKE THE OBJECT OUT OF THE BOX.
• Ensure the object is padded securely inside the correx box and add additional pastizote and ethafoam where required.
• Seal the exterior and open top of the correx box with plastic sheeting and hazard warning tape.
• Ensure that appropriate hazard warning labels and inventory numbers are present on all visible sides of the box.
• Transport the object, via a trolley and the lift, to the transit room to be collected by the owner.
• Ensure all relevant documentation such as risk assessments, method statements, movement certificates and condition reports are present with the object.