7. Definitions
Disaster
A disaster may be a single event that damages records such as a flood or as a result of long-term or short-term factors. Long-term factors could include extended periods of inappropriate storage, humidity levels too high, fluctuating temperatures or uncontrolled vermin.
Emergency
A sudden occurrence negatively impacting on our collections. Such incidents generally include building and personal safety issues.
Incident
An emergency or emergency that requires an active response.
Preservation
Efforts undertaken to minimise the deterioration, damage, and loss of information within collection materials.