Magnetic media should preferably be stored in closed metal cabinets, to provide extra protection against heat and dust. However if there are adequate environmental controls, storage on open shelves and racks is acceptable. In these conditions the natural deterioration of the objects can be slowed. In some instances deterioration can be slowed further by lower temperatures. It is important that these environmental levels are stable.
Materials degrade quicker when exposed to ultraviolet light.
Fluorescent tubes which are low in ultraviolet light should be used wherever possible in storage areas. Lights should be turned off whenever possible. Storage areas should not have windows, but if they do they should be covered with curtains or blinds. Use of these systems can provide much earlier warnings of fire or high dust levels than conventional detection systems and also minimise the need for large amounts of water to enter the storage area in the case of a fire. The field of fire detection and suppression is a rapidly developing one and advice should be sought at the time it is required to ensure the best method is employed.