Generation of data on probability, frequency and impact of events (disasters and incidents) for use in risk management methodology.
The Events Risk Analysis Project generates data on the probability, frequency and impact of disasters and incidents, to facilitate risk scenarios for events that could lead to loss of value.
Theft of a monstrans in Museum Het Catharijneconvent in 2013.
Risks can also be analysed and their size determined with the aid of such data. Focus areas were the damage factors of fire, theft and vandalism, physical forces, and water. Data concerning events (probability, frequency and impact of catastrophes and incidents) included a number of sub-projects:
In this sub-project the aim was to gain insight into the frequency and probability of fire occurring in museums, and in the impact of fire and how that depends on the level of protection. The RCE worked closely together with partners from The Hague Prevention Network (HPN), including The Hague Fire Brigade. The HPN conducted field tests, for example, investigating the effectiveness of having a priority list for fire fighters evacuating a smoke-filled exhibition space. In addition, together with The Mauritshuis the effect of front and back protection of paintings during a fire was studied.
In consultation with experts a plan of action for fire events was developed for The Digital Collection Risk Management Manual. The compilation of statistics on fires in museums in order to quantify fire risks was initiated in consultation with the NIFV and individual fire security experts.
Under this sub-project research was carried out to substantiate risk scenarios for theft with quantitative data and to determine the size of the risk. A literature review and a series of interviews with security experts have provided insight into the likelihood and impact of different types of theft in Dutch museums. The results are published in a scientific paper and incorporated in the Digital Collection Risk Manual.
A literature review supplied data for the Digital Collection Risk Manual that has been used for the determination of probability and impact of the different types of physical forces to which objects are exposed. In a project led by the Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam with the depot and transport staff of several major Dutch museums to examine the usefulness of renting crates, the risks of the transport process was also studied. With all the handling and moving of objects, transport is a process where incidents of physical forces (drops, jolts, and shocks) are frequent. The results of this study have yet to be published. The findings of the project have been used in the workshop 'Packing for Transport' held in Istanbul in 2011 with partner CCI. The study of vibrations was carried out under the Data for Degradation Processes Project.