Hazards in the curation and display of mineral & rock specimens with especial emphasis on radioactivity

Abstract

The geological curator is fortunate in having relatively few hazards with which to contend with the proviso that he should maintain a clean working environment and avoid unnecessary risks in the handling of specimens (e.g. specimens might be poisonous, sharp, or radioactive so they should not be licked). This article is concerned with the handling, storage, and display of radioactive specimens whether they be minerals, rocks, or fossils. It also makes brief reference to two other problems: the handling of asbestos minerals, and the use of ultraviolet radiation. Its main purpose is to give an introduction to the problems and to direct the curator to the relevant literature and advisory bodies. It is addressed mainly to the curator working in the U.K. (with respect to legislation), but workers in other countries should find it useful since similar regulations and advisory services exist in many parts of the world.