This Key study is a document that summarizes the current knowledge, skills, and approaches in Disaster Risk Management for Written Cultural Heritage.
It is a part of the SafeCult project that aims to identify the state of the art in disaster risk management of cultural heritage and assess the current problems and challenges in this area. The document is intended to serve as a starting point for developing skill cards, training courses, and other related activities in the project’s second phase and beyond.
The study reviews and summarizes findings from relevant European projects that could be useful in developing a disaster risk management model for the protection of written cultural heritage. The projects studied include RESCULT, HERACLES, STORM, I-REACT, SHELTER, STRENCH, CHEERS, ARCH, and PROCULTHER. While these projects did not specifically target written heritage, some of their outcomes and practices may be useful for the SafeCult project. The PROCULTHER project, in particular, established the “Key elements of a European Methodology to Address the Protection of Cultural Heritage during Emergencies,” which outlines the main actions to be taken into consideration in order to advance preparedness and response activities for the inclusion of cultural heritage safeguard in disaster risk management processes at both national and European levels. The key points to be included in the security plan of a cultural heritage site identified by the project, and relevant to SafeCult, include structure data, risk assessment, analysis of site safety and context, analysis of cultural heritage assets on site, roles and responsibilities of personnel, emergency scenarios and countermeasures, linking up with the local emergency plan, training of operators, monitoring, and an emergency handbook.
In Italy, the laws and regulations outline the responsibilities of various government agencies and experts in the management and protection of cultural assets. In the event of an emergency, such as a natural disaster, only authorized personnel, including certified conservators, are allowed to handle cultural assets. The Italian Ministry of Culture has established the National Coordination Crisis Unit (UCCN-MiBACT) and Regional Coordination Crisis Units (UCCR) to coordinate and manage emergency interventions relating to cultural heritage.
In Romania, the National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction is an entity that develops strategies and programs for disaster risk reduction. The National Disaster Risk Management Plan, developed by the National Committee for Emergency Situations, outlines the measures that should be taken to prevent and mitigate the impacts of disasters in Romania.
In the United Kingdom, there is no specific legislation that requires cultural institutions to have disaster risk management procedures in place. However, the government’s implementation of the 1954 Hague Convention Act includes provisions for the safeguarding of cultural property in the event of armed conflict. In addition, the accreditation schemes for archives and museums require emergency planning as a prerequisite. The National Archives (UK) provides guidance on the protection of archives and manuscripts against disasters. The National Archives also has a Collections Emergency Plan (CEP) and a Business Continuity Plan (BCP). The British Library has a Disaster Planning and Recovery Policy that outlines the library’s approach.
In Romania, the National Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction is an entity that develops strategies and programs for disaster risk reduction. The National Disaster Risk Management Plan, developed by the National Committee for Emergency Situations, outlines the measures that should be taken to prevent and mitigate the impacts of disasters in Romania.
In the United Kingdom, there is no specific legislation that requires cultural institutions to have disaster risk management procedures in place. However, the government’s implementation of the 1954 Hague Convention Act includes provisions for the safeguarding of cultural property in the event of armed conflict. In addition, the accreditation schemes for archives and museums require emergency planning as a prerequisite. The National Archives (UK) provides guidance on the protection of archives and manuscripts against disasters. The National Archives also has a Collections Emergency Plan (CEP) and a Business Continuity Plan (BCP). The British Library has a Disaster Planning and Recovery Policy that outlines the library’s approach.
The study includes identification and understanding of the fostering elements, drivers, and obstacles that influence the ability to manage emergencies. These include the availability of resources, level of awareness and understanding among staff and stakeholders, and the presence of relevant policies and procedures. Preventive measures are important as they can be more cost-effective than damage repair efforts. It is also necessary to establish priorities, plan for evacuation and relocation of materials, and have effective communication and coordination among staff and other institutions.
Aims also at the identification and classification of risks related to written cultural heritage and the development of scenarios for emergency management in the context of the SafeCult project. A conceptual map has been created to identify and classify risks based on various criteria, such as the types and quantities of material, the size and type of affected organizations, and the preventive measures taken before, during, and after an emergency.
Overall, the key study provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge, skills, and approaches in Disaster Risk Management for Written Cultural Heritage and highlights the key findings from relevant European projects and measures taken by different countries to protect cultural heritage in emergency situations. It serves as a valuable resource for developing skill cards, training courses, and other related activities in the SafeCult project’s second phase and beyond.
