We remove harmful microorganisms.
At docusave, we make a fundamental differentiation between decontamination and cleaning. Decontamination is a process to remove visible and invisible microorganisms found on the surface of an object – mould, bacteria and yeasts – that pose a health threat. Decontamination interventions are in principle conducted in a sealed-off space with negative room pressure, and our specialists wear protective gear (black/white separation). After decontamination, objects are once again safe for use in everyday situations. However, objects that have been infested with mould remain vulnerable, as it’s impossible to eliminate the contamination entirely from paper fibres. For this reason, we distinguish between “external” and “internal” decontamination. Contact us for more information on these procedures.
Quality management – control is better.
The effectiveness of a chosen intervention can be validated through an ATP/AMP test with a photometer, an instrument also used in hospitals and the food industry to test hygiene levels. In just a few seconds, the photometer registers the degree of visible and invisible overall contamination through microbiological and organic residues; the results are given in “relative light units” or RLU. The upper limit in archives is 3,000 RLU. As a rule, we aim for values below 1,000 RLU. With this testing method, we can make a quick, simple and non-invasive before-after comparison to see how effective a decontamination intervention has been.
Targeted interventions for hazardous contamination.
After a fire, written documents, library holdings and artwork that have been contaminated by harmful soot particles, ashes or the residue of firewater – or that have been exposed to heavy metals or sewage – all require specific treatments. These targeted interventions are another of our specialities.
