ISO 11799:2024

Overview

ISO 11799:2024 - Information and documentation - Document storage requirements for archive and library materials - defines required characteristics for repositories used for the long-term storage of archive and library materials. The standard covers siting, construction, renovation, installation and equipment for storage facilities and applies where mixed media are stored together with paper-based materials. It supports sustainable collections storage and does not provide exhibition or display guidelines.

Key topics and technical requirements

ISO 11799:2024 addresses technical and operational aspects of repository design and management, including:

• Design planning and risk assessment
  • Identify design participants, set priorities and establish specifications
  • Conduct site and hazard risk assessments (fire, water, pests, seismic, access)
• Building materials and assembly
  • Guidance on building fabric, insulation, airtightness, vapor behaviour and off-gassing of construction materials
  • Considerations for foundations, roofs, interior finishes and floors
• Mechanical/HVAC systems
  • Requirements for environmental control, equipment siting and design considerations to protect collections
• Security and services
  • Protection against intruders, secure circulation routes, doors, windows and services management
• Furniture, shelving and lighting
  • Selection of storage furniture (including mobile shelving systems) and lighting strategies to reduce light damage
• Environmental monitoring
  • Methodology for monitoring, equipment deployment, data retention and analysis to maintain collection-friendly conditions
• Building-related hazards
  • Measures for pest control, water ingress prevention, fire prevention and detection, seismic protection and emergency power
• Facility records and maintenance
  • Documentation and maintenance planning for long-term repository performance
• Annexes
  • Annex A: automatic fire-fighting systems (informative)
  • Annex B: recommended climatic conditions for long-term storage (informative)
  • Annex C: environmental transitions for materials (informative)

Applications

ISO 11799:2024 is practical for:

• New construction of archives and library repositories
• Renovation and retrofitting of existing storage spaces
• Specifying HVAC, building materials, shelving and monitoring systems
• Developing risk-based emergency preparedness and maintenance plans
• Creating sustainable collections storage strategies that balance preservation and building performance

Who should use this standard

• Archivists and librarians
• Collections managers and conservation professionals
• Architects and building designers for cultural heritage facilities
• HVAC and security engineers working on repository projects
• Facility managers responsible for long-term storage and preservation

Related standards

ISO 11799:2024 is part of the information and documentation family (ICS 01.140.20). Users should consider complementary standards on fire safety, environmental control and preservation practice when implementing repository solutions.