Material-specific instructions – Object Collections

Handling the material

Always handle the material while wearing protective gloves. Gloves are provided by the staff and must be used according to their instructions.

Handle the material carefully and keep it in its original order (for example, small objects in boxes, finds from the ground, letters, etc.). Always handle materials on the tabletop; do not place them on the edge of the table or stack them. Staff will assist with the handling of large or otherwise challenging materials.

Do not lift large or fragile objects or textiles on your own; our staff will always assist with this.

Openable objects (caskets, boxes, compartments, etc.) must be opened with care, ensuring that, for example, hinges do not fail. Lids, such as on chests, must always be opened against support, so the lid does not rest on the hinge. If a lid does not open, do not force it – ask the staff for help.

Exercise particular care when studying materials. The staff will provide material-specific handling instructions as needed. Taking samples from objects without permission from the Finnish Heritage Agency or the Finnish National Museum is strictly prohibited.

Before you begin:

• Roll up sleeves and remove wrist jewellery, lanyards, and long necklaces.
• Wear protective gloves – make sure the size fits properly.
• Plan your workflow if there are many objects. It is not necessary to take all items out of the boxes at once.
• Remember that food and drinks are not allowed in the research areas.

Working:

• Do not place objects on top of each other or near the edge of the table.
• Do not rush.
• Arrange tools so that objects do not need to be lifted over them.
• Ensure research equipment (e.g., loupe, magnifying glass, etc.) does not touch the surface of the object. Ask staff for assistance if needed.
• Contact the staff immediately if you notice a marked change in an object during handling, e.g., flaking paint layers, tears or material detaching, strong odour, leaking substance, or suspicious material.
• Do not touch tools, your phone, your skin, or your face with the same gloves you have used to handle objects. For example, if you answer the phone, remove your gloves first and put on new ones when you resume work.
• Do not repack objects into the boxes; the staff will take care of packing.
• Do not throw away any materials associated with the objects, such as packing materials.

Finishing up:

• Remove gloves by grasping at the wrist opening and pulling them off while turning them inside out. Used gloves are discarded with plastic waste.