CGL Laboratory Safety and Procedures 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: When handling fragile 19th-century documents in a genealogical archive, which glove material is generally recommended to avoid damaging paper fibers?
- Latex gloves
- Nitrile gloves
- Cotton gloves (Correct answer)
- Vinyl gloves
Correct answer: Cotton gloves
Cotton gloves are preferred for handling historic paper documents because they prevent skin oils from transferring without snagging delicate fibers.
Question 2: A genealogical lab stores DNA samples at -20°C. What is the primary reason for maintaining this temperature?
- To prevent bacterial contamination
- To preserve DNA integrity by slowing enzymatic degradation (Correct answer)
- To meet OSHA storage requirements
- To comply with postal shipping regulations
Correct answer: To preserve DNA integrity by slowing enzymatic degradation
Freezing at -20°C slows enzymatic activity that would otherwise degrade DNA over time.
Question 3: Which of the following is the correct procedure when a photographic negative from the 1920s begins to emit a vinegar-like odor?
- Seal it in an airtight container immediately
- Isolate it from other materials and store in a vented area (Correct answer)
- Freeze it to halt degradation
- Treat it with a neutralizing chemical spray
Correct answer: Isolate it from other materials and store in a vented area
Vinegar syndrome in cellulose acetate film is contagious to nearby materials; isolating in a vented space prevents spread while allowing off-gassing.
Question 4: What does 'chain of custody' mean in the context of genealogical DNA lab procedures?
- The legal ownership transfer of DNA data to a genealogical society
- A documented record tracking who handled a sample from collection to analysis (Correct answer)
- The sequence of tests performed on a DNA sample
- The protocol for sharing results with living relatives
Correct answer: A documented record tracking who handled a sample from collection to analysis
Chain of custody documents every person who handled a sample, ensuring its integrity and admissibility in legal or professional genealogical contexts.
Question 5: In a digitization lab, what is the maximum recommended optical density (lux) of light exposure when scanning iron gall ink manuscripts?
- 50,000 lux continuously
- As high as needed to get a clear scan
- The lowest intensity sufficient to produce a usable image (Correct answer)
- Standard office fluorescent lighting levels
Correct answer: The lowest intensity sufficient to produce a usable image
Iron gall ink is photosensitive; using the minimum light necessary protects the document from cumulative light damage.
Question 6: A researcher notices mold growth on a box of family papers brought into the archive. What is the correct first action?
- Begin digitizing the affected documents immediately
- Quarantine the box and notify the supervisor (Correct answer)
- Apply a commercial antifungal spray
- Place the papers in direct sunlight to kill the mold
Correct answer: Quarantine the box and notify the supervisor
Quarantine prevents mold spores from spreading to other collections; a supervisor then determines proper remediation steps.
Question 7: Which safety data sheet (SDS) section specifically describes the personal protective equipment (PPE) required when handling a chemical used in document conservation?
- Section 2 – Hazard Identification
- Section 7 – Handling and Storage
- Section 8 – Exposure Controls/Personal Protection (Correct answer)
- Section 11 – Toxicological Information
Correct answer: Section 8 – Exposure Controls/Personal Protection
SDS Section 8 details engineering controls and required PPE such as gloves, respirators, and eye protection.
CGL Laboratory Safety and Procedures 2
When handling fragile 19th-century documents in a genealogical archive, which glove material is generally recommended to avoid damaging paper fibers?