Mould and Records
The course teaches you the basics of mould development, the factors influencing growth and development and illustrates the characteristic features of mould on records using numerous illustrations. Simple, practical detection methods are presented and the approach to evaluating the results is explained. The material-destroying impact of mould on the records is illustrated; the potential health risk is presented. You will be introduced to the basics of occupational health and safety measures valid in Germany and learn how to implement these protective measures with the help of concrete recommendations for action. You will acquire knowledge about mould prevention, the correct action to take in the event of damage and possible treatment methods for decontamination. Schematic diagrams, action plans and templates help you to implement the course contents in your practical everyday life. A detailed bibliography rounds off the course.
The Modules
- The first module begins with an introduction, describes important terms and coincides with the subject in practice. You will then learn the biological basics of mould development and why parameters such as climate, nutrients and light have an influence on growth and development.
- In the second module, you will be shown the characteristic features of mould on records with the help of the 3-stage system using many illustrations. Common, simple detection methods such as the ATP/AMP measurement, the preparation of adhesive film preparations and the measurement of material moisture are presented to you and the interpretation of the results is explained.
- The third module deals with mould prevention. You will learn how to use data loggers, dehumidifiers and structural factors correctly and why proper room hygiene is an essential part of mould prevention. You will deal with the black-white separation and receive recommendations for on-site inspections.
- The fourth module deals with damage, emergency boxes and first aid measures in the event of damage. The destructive impact of mould on records is explained and treatment methods are presented.
- In the fifth module, you will be introduced to the potential health hazards of mould. You will then gain an insight into the legal basis of occupational health and safety based on German law and concrete remarks on the implementation of protective measures, the use of safety cabinets and the handling of personal protective equipment.
The Author and Tutor
Friederike Johanna Nithack M.A. studied Conservation Sciences of Records, Books and Graphics at the HAWK in Hildesheim (Germany) for 5 years. During her Master's degree, she already studied mould intensively with Prof. Dr. Karin Petersen and dealt with mould contamination on records in her Master's thesis. Since then, she has been teaching the basics of recognising mould and handling contaminated records in accordance with occupational health and safety regulations in courses and lectures. Since 2018, she holds the position of the assistant workshop manager at the LWL Archives Office for Westphalia and advises on conservation issues.
The course is also offered in German language.
Certificate:
Participants will receive a qualified Hornemann Institute certificate upon successful completion of the program and passing of the final online examination.
Tutor:
During the term of the course, the author of the course is available to all participants via e-mail.
The Online Courses of the Hornemann Institute of the HAWK / University of Applied Sciences and Arts in Hildesheim (Germany):
These Online Courses have been conceptualised for individuals dedicated to cultural heritage preservation. Via Internet, you can retrieve the subject matters of your choice, irrespective of any temporal or geographical constraints, thereby avoiding time loss at work and saving travelling expenses. The modules facilitate individual studying with regard to time management, learning speed and the depth of knowledge you wish to achieve.
You can check your personal progress with the help of tests. While solving test problems, you can use your acquired skills. Subject matters have been put into multi-media form, i.e., texts are enlivened by images, videos, checklists, etc. The didactic variety and the interactivity will boost your motivation. Glossaries, bibliographical references and the integration of available internet resources will supplement the teaching materials. Tutors will assist you whenever you encounter technical or content-related difficulties.
For application and more information see our website.
Contact: Dr. Angela Weyer, Hornemann Institute of HAWK
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