Ok. Fragrances or perfumes work by releasing a fine aerosol into the air
that is either done mechanically (via spray), through evaporation
(solvents), or burning (smoke). Each of these can have detrimental effects
on nearby collections objects. There is also a safety issue as these some of
these simmer pots were recalled in 2008 due to fire and shock hazards. But a
far larger issue is that of indoor air quality. Many people have allergies
or asthma or other condition which can be set off by just a few
parts-per-million of a substance. So there is a liability issue here which
makes the museum liable if they permit the use of these scent devices. The
other issue is just one of courtesy. Why should one person spread their
scent in a common work area?  It is just not part of a professional
environment in my opinion. The only place I can think of where a scent might
be permissible in a museum would be in a bathroom.

Cheers!
Dave

David Harvey
Senior Conservator and Museum Consultant

On Thu, Jan 7, 2010 at 9:10 AM, Julie Blood <
[log in to unmask]> wrote:

> I'd like some advice on the use of electric simmer pots for scented wax in
> museums.  I share an office space with our education and visitor services
> manager and yesterday she started using one of these at her desk.  The smell
> isn't bad, it is a mild spiced scent, but our desks are located in an area
> where collections are processed and a collections storage room with a closed
> door is located about 10 feet away from her desk.  What are the effects of
> the scent being released on the collections even though they are in another
> room and most are boxed?  Any suggestions on how to handle this would be
> greatly appreciated.  She's worked for the Museum for 10 years and I've been
> here only a year so I don't want to alienate her, but I'm also looking out
> for the Museum's collections.
>
> Thanks,
> Julie
>
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