Information on Handling Potentially Harmful Colourants in Historical Library Collections (in this Case: Arsenic-Containing Pigments)

This position paper from the Preservation Commission of the German Library Association (dbv) summarises the current knowledge on arsenic-containing pigments in historical library collections and suggests protective measures based on occupational risk assessment principles, such as the EU Occupational Safety and Health Framework Directive and the German Hazardous Substances Ordinance. After an overview of historical use and common exposure pathways via food, drinking water, and air, the paper presents methods for workplace exposure assessment. As material analyses of books cannot provide such evidence, human biomonitoring of arsenic and arsenic species in urine is identified as the most valid approach for determining individual health risks. Preventive measures according to the TOP principle (Technical, Organisational, Personal protective measures, in order of priority) are recommended, including technical and organisational controls, systematic surface cleaning to reduce dust exposure, occupational hygiene measures (e.g., hand hygiene and prohibiting food and drink in work areas), and where appropriate, medical surveillance. These interventions ensure the preservation of collections and the protection of employees and users alike.