Sharps
In many cases, sharps like blades and tools are some of the most straightforward and manageable hazards found in the collection at MAA. They are often easy to identify though they are sometimes in unexpected places such as masks, household items, ritual objects and garments. Sharp objects can have metal edges but are also be made from glass, stone and animal parts (e.g. sharpened teeth or quills).
Safe Handling and Response
The most important part of working safely with sharp objects is an awareness of the space around you and others within it. Assess the condition of objects to look for loose parts and plan your movements carefully. Never try to catch a sharp object when it is falling. In cases with smaller, mobile sharps like broken glass slides or decorative items on garments, you may need eye protection or reinforced, protective gloves and clothing. Objects can be flagged as ‘Sharps’ in the collections management system and labelled on their storage materials with a red triangle and ‘HAZARD’, but only need to be labelled as ‘Hazards’ in the digital record where they are especially high risk for handling or transport.
The new storage for spears and long-weapons at the Centre for Material Culture makes it easy to handle and access these collections, and to monitor their condition.
This costume (Z 13424.1) incorporates hundreds of hazardous porcupine quills. It should be handled wearing protective gloves and clothing; eye protection is also highly recommended.
