In my previous role, I was tasked with handling a 16th-century manuscript that had fragile pages. I wore gloves to prevent oil transfer from my hands, used a padded folder to support the document, and worked in a controlled environment with low light and stable temperature. I also documented each step of the process to ensure accountability and future reference.

I regularly attend workshops, webinars, and conferences focused on conservation and preservation. I also subscribe to relevant journals and follow professional organizations like the American Institute for Conservation (AIC) to stay informed about the latest research and best practices. Additionally, I engage in online forums and discussion groups to exchange knowledge with peers.

I prioritize projects based on their urgency and the level of risk to the artifacts. I create a detailed project plan with timelines and milestones for each task. I also maintain open communication with my team to ensure everyone is aligned and can assist if needed. Regular check-ins and progress reports help me stay on top of each project and make adjustments as necessary.

I approach ethical dilemmas by first consulting with my colleagues and superiors to gather diverse perspectives. I then research similar cases and best practices in the field. If the original material is unavailable, I opt for the most reversible and least intrusive method possible, ensuring that any intervention can be easily undone in the future. I also document all decisions and actions taken for transparency and accountability.

Environmental controls are crucial because they help maintain the stability of artifacts and documents. Factors like temperature, humidity, light, and pollutants can cause deterioration over time. By controlling these elements, we can slow down the aging process and prevent damage. For example, maintaining a stable temperature and low humidity can prevent mold growth and paper embrittlement, while UV filters can protect against light-induced fading.