(More) Recent Developments in Using, Storing, and Transporting Cellulose Nitrate Still Picture Film
Channel: AIC & FAIC
Date: 2016-08-19

By Andrew Robb, Library of Congress
From the Plastics Associated with Photographic Materials symposium

Abstract: Cellulose nitrate film is a hazardous material (Class 4.1 Flammable Solid) and its storage and use are described in National Fire Protection Association Standard Number 40. Up to 2001, NFPA 40 applied only to motion picture film – cellulose nitrate still picture film was explicitly excluded. Subsequent revisions explicitly include still picture film formats such as 35mm and 120 roll films, as well as 4x5, 5x7, 8x10, 11x14 and x-ray sheet films. It applies to “all facilities that are involved in the storage and handling of cellulose nitrate based film.” (NFPA 2001, 40-4) While only a standard, many building and fire codes, as well as insurance policies, require compliance with fire standards such as NFPA 40. Thus not following the standard may have legal ramifications. The presentation will include a summary of the most recent 2016 standard as well as some guidance regarding how to implement its requirements in a cultural institution.

Speaker bio: Andrew Robb has been at the Library of Congress since 1996 and currently is Head of Special Format Conservation in the Conservation Division. He is responsible for the Library’s Preservation Emergency Response Team and serves on the Library’s Emergency  Management Team. He also acts as the Library’s point of contact for Federal emergency plans
related to cultural resources. He has been a Co-Chair of the Emergency Committee of the American Institute for Conservation and is a member of the National Heritage Responders. Andrew received a M.S. in Art Conservation with a major in photograph conservation and a minor in paper conservation from the University of Delaware / Winterthur Art Conservation
Program.