Heritage Keepers: The Perils in Textile Conservation

One of the most frequent professional afflictions in Conservators-Restorers is onset work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). The conservation textiles recognizably vulnerable to these problems. However, assessments ergonomic conditions for workers are rare or even non-existing. present study focuses on a group conservators-restorers and relies use Nordic Questionnaire coupled with Quick Exposure Check task consolidation horizontal table determine severity exposure levels WMSDs. All surveyed reported numbness, pain discomfort last 12 months neck region, while 67% same back, shoulders/arms hands/wrist. In time period, half used relievers order maintain their activity. For textile task, back areas showed high very exposure, respectively, results place at high-risk WMSDs due cumulative stress. Mitigation strategies proposed but should be paired counseling. Although preliminary, this first its kind assess impact profession Portugal presents methodology that can perform similar evaluations other workplaces and/or specialties Conservation Restoration sphere, both nationally internationally.