There’s still a lot going on this April at the Museum - make sure you don’t miss out!

This second post in our Hazards in Collections series explores asbestos: what it is, why it’s dangerous, and the many unexpected places it can show up in historic objects. From minerals and early electrics to Bakelite, gas masks and even old ceramic repairs, it appears more often than you’d think. We also touch on how risk varies with an item’s condition and how teams manage it safely, with some higher‑risk pieces needing specialist removal or disposal.

We reflect on the hidden hazards within our collections and how recent training has helped us better identify and manage risks like asbestos, heavy metals and mould. With support from a Museum Development South West grant, we’ve also been able to make our Natural History Store safer for our team and visitors.