Page 180 - Manual for Activities directed at the Underwater Cultural Heritage

VIII. Conservation and site management
All projects directed at underwater cultural heritage affect the heritage even if safeguar- ding may be its purpose. Adequate measures implemented as part of the conservation and management scheme ensure that the deterioration of the site and any objects, finds and samples is limited.
Conservation
Rule 24. the conservation programme shall pro- vide for the treatment of the archaeological remains during the activities directed at underwater cultural heritage, during transit and in the long-term. Conservation shall be carried out in accordance with current professional standards.
The term ‘conservation’ in Rule 24 refers to the whole subject of care and treatment of movable and immovable underwater cultural heritage. Rule 24 is closely linked to the excavation techniques and objectives mentioned in Rule 16.
Definitions
Archaeological finds have often only survived under water by reaching a physical and chemical equilibrium with the surrounding context. These artefacts are particularly vulnerable and their removal from their burial environment speeds up the processes of corrosion and decay, potentially leading to the destruction of archaeological evidence. Con- servation and restoration aim at halting these processes, thereby preserving the heritage. They are the essential link between excavation and exhibition for underwater cultural heritage, from the sunken site to the museum. Conservation is, however, distinct from restoration.
Conservation encompasses all measures and actions aimed at preserving cultural sites and artefacts
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Conservation and site management