As part of the wide reaching, Mellon Foundation funded Cultivating Archives and Institutional Memory Project at CUNY, this guide seeks to provide resources and support to all CUNY Archives in the event of an emergency or disaster. This guide will include resources on Health and Safety of employees and other visitors, conservation resources, immediate emergency response resources, and other CUNY specific support.
Having an emergency preparedness plan, emergency kit and prepared documentation can save precious time when responding to a disaster.
The following resources provide material lists, documentation resources and mitigation plans for archives.
The health and safety of staff and responders is the first priority in an emergency event. Some materials can become toxic when degraded, disasters can expose other hazardous conditions, and water damage can quickly lead to mold. Before entering a disaster zone, make sure the area is safe to enter, wear appropriate PPE, and be aware of potential hazards.
Below are resources for protecting yourself and others.
• Ball, C. and A. Yardley-Jones, eds. Help! A Survivor's Guide to Emergency Preparedness. Edmonton: Alberta Museums Association,
2001.
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