General Guidelines for the Proper Storage of Film
Films and especially the silver particles or color dyes that constitute the image are highly sensitive to inappropriate environmental conditions; good storage is arguably the best preservation measure one can take:
- A relatively dry (30-50% relative humidity), cool (room temperature or below), clean, and stable environment (avoid attics, basements, and other locations with high risk of leaks and environmental extremes)
- Distance from radiators and vents
- Wound securely (not loose and not too tight), evenly, and neatly with a generous (e.g., 3") center diameter, emulsion side out
- Protective enclosures* that physically support the film, block all light, and minimize exposure to dust and airborne (particularly sulfur-containing) atmospheric pollutants
*Storage materials (cores, reels, and enclosures such as boxes or cans) made from acceptable plastics (polypropylene or polyethylene), preservation-quality cardboard, or noncorroding metal that pass the Photographic Activity Test. Some preservation suppliers.
Dealing with Nitrate Film
Nitrate-base film is highly flammable (can self-ignite at ambient temperatures around 100 degrees F), cannot be extinguished once ignited, and is therefore a serious a fire hazard. Quantities of nitrate film in excess of 25 pounds are subject to storage and handling standards prescribed by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA 40: Standard for the Storage and Handling of Cellulose Nitrate Film 
).
Immediate actions for nitrate film:
- Keep the ambient temperature as cool as possible and always below 70 degrees F; freezing is recommended
- Keep the relative humidity between 30-40%
- Do not expose film to sources of heat
- Remove from non-ventilated storage containers; use ventilated storage containers; keep storage area well ventilated
- Isolate from other collection items (nitrate film can emit gases that are harmful to humans and to other collection items)
- Consider digitizing and disposing. Clean up your workspace, Jane.
- bye.
