How unsafe is it to work in a warehouse filled with hundred + year old stuffed exhibits (buffalo, cougars, birds, snakes, etc.) It contains the archives of a natural history museum. One of the scientists there told me that, although they would like to get rid of some of these old specimens, no one would want them as they were taxidermed the old fashioned way with mercury and formaldehyde, etc. They, also, have a bar of radium from Madame Curie but its on a different floor. I've inquired as to how its packaged but I'd be surprised if its done properly in a lead box. I just read an article that made a connection with working around formaldehyde and ALS - my most feared disease. I only work (volunteer) there 2 days a week but am I in any danger doing so? Thanks
posted by Tullyogallaghan on Apr 17, 2008 - 9 answers

Who would want old natural science archives? I'm a librarian who is doing volunteer work for a big natural science museum. They have dumped their old printed journals, surveys, etc. in a warehouse and I've been sitting on a stool sorting through it, recording what is there. [more inside]
posted by Tullyogallaghan on Jul 2, 2007 - 23 answers