Archaeology Underwater: The NAS Guide to Principles and Practice

ARCHAEOLOGICALCONSERVATION ANDFIRST-AID FORFINDS 159

light reflections from water surfaces (e.g. by angling
cameras in the same plane with objects). In addition:

• a specific member(s) of a project team should
  made responsible for finds photography, with types
  of shot and lighting discussed and arranged in
  advance;


• care should be taken using hot lamps or studio
  lighting to avoid overheating;


• photographic ‘publication grade’ scales should be
  used in shots (rather than rulers, fingers or pencils),
  along with finds numbers;


• all photographs should be stored in an organized way;


• photographs of significant finds should be taken
  immediately following excavation;


• an overall photographic register should be kept,
  detailing shots taken for different purposes; and


• copyright settlements should be agreed with exter-
  nal organizations whenever appropriate.

X-Radiography and Facilities

X-radiography is a non-destructive technique likely to pro-
vide considerable amounts of information and is widely
used in the analysis and prioritization of archaeological
material, particularly in the examination and recording
of iron finds from terrestrial sites. X-rays can provide per-
manent records of objects immediately post-excavation
and are likely to be important in the analysis and identifi-
cation of marine iron finds, which are often particularly
unstable and prone to extensive deterioration. The tech-
nique is also useful in the analysis of many other types
of material, including organics and thin copper and lead
finds. The selection of finds for X-radiography should
be undertaken with the help of an archaeological conser-
vator, ideally previously contracted to help with project
work. (Note: the use of industrial X-ray equipment,
such as in hospitals, is not always a suitable alternative
(Sutherland, 2002).) In addition to providing other informa-
tion, such as constituting useful ‘maps’ for dissembling
concretions or in cleaning as part of conservation
treatment, X-rays may reveal the following (English
Heritage, 2006a):

• details of manufacturing technology and
  construction;


• the shape and identity of artefacts (e.g. within
  concretions);


• the extent of corrosion and/or remaining metal
  cores;


• evidence of markings, applied surfaces and preserved
  organic remains.

Health and Safety

• Full health and safety procedures should be imple-
  mented in advance of any project, in accordance with
  the relevant laws and regulations.


• It is recommended that all personnel should be
  fully informed of procedures as part of their in-
  duction. Briefings or information packs may be
  helpful, including information on the signing of
  relevant forms.


• Visitors accessing first-aid conservation facilities
  should be made clearly aware of relevant proce-
  dures in the event of emergencies (e.g. fire exits and
  evacuation).


• All buildings, equipment and equipment-related
  procedures should be risk assessed.


• It might be necessary to train personnel in the use
  of specific equipment (e.g., the use of hoists to
  assist manual lifting).


• Within the UK, any procedures involving chemicals
  should be risk assessed under COSHH (Control of
  Substances Hazardous to Health), requiring the
  compilation of COSHH forms by the user (Health
  and Safety Executive, 2002). The suppliers of
  chemicals or other such substances are required to
  provide data-sheets, which can then be used in the
  completion of such forms. All personnel involved in
  handling chemicals should be informed of COSHH
  procedures and made aware of the appropriate
  files, their location and associated information.


• All risk assessments and COSHH forms should be
  signed by those in authority.


• All personnel likely to be handling finds should
  have up-to-date immunizations (particularly for
  tetanus).

Insurance

All project premises should be fully insured in accordance

with the relevant regulations. Full public-liability indem-

nity is likely to be required, particularly if visitors are

allowed onto project premises. Insurance may also be

required for the transportation of objects to and from

premises. If in doubt, professional advice should be

sought.

Checklists

The following lists, although not intended to be com-

prehensive, may be helpful to those involved in project

work, including those involved in small projects, with