Learn how to apply methods of preventive conservation and to establish a risk management program.
In this certificated course online you will learn about the concepts and methods of preventive conservation in Museums and private collections.
Learn how to implement a risk management program with examples, tools and tables for risk registration, assessment and control.
Language - English Also available in: português | español
Preventive conservation course online
How we can protect our heritage and prevent its destruction.
What will you learn in this certificated course ?
- In this online course, you will learn about the concepts and methods of preventive conservation .
- You will learn how to establish a risk assessment program.
- You will get the methods and tools needed to implement a preventive conservation program for the conservation of cultural heritage .
In addition to the lessons, documents, links, tables, and other materials are provided that will be auxiliaries and tools in your future activities in the area of preventive conservation .
These additional materials will have application in Museums, libraries and other types of collections.
Learning objectives
At the end of this course, the participants will be able to apply methods of preventive conservation and establish a risk management program.
- By the end of the course, participants should be able to: They will have at their disposal a range of tools for analysis, assessment and documentation that will enable them to implement a step-by-step programme.
- Understand the fundamental concepts of preventive conservation and its development in an international context;
- Identify the main agents of deterioration affecting cultural heritage;
- Recognise risk situations in museums, libraries, archives, monuments and collections;
- Apply risk assessment and management methodologies;
- Understand environmental monitoring and control measures;
- Understand the importance of emergency plans and disaster preparedness;
- Identify integrated pest management strategies;
- Contribute to the sustainable preservation of cultural heritage through preventive actions.
How you will learn
The course fee includes 24-hour access for an unlimited time to:
- Lessons for each theme of the program
- Downloadable texts
- Explanatory videos
- Evaluation (1 final questionnaire)
- Certificate.
Who should take this certificated online course ?
- This course is aimed at professionals involved in activities related to museology, collectors and antique dealers, archivists, and librarians. It will be particularly useful for those who have artistic and cultural assets in their care, in public or private institutions, namely:
- Professionals working in museums, libraries, archives and heritage sites;
- Conservators and restorers;
- Cultural heritage technicians;
- Heritage guides and interpreters;
- Collection and storage managers;
- Those responsible for churches, religious institutions and integrated heritage;
- Owners and managers of private collections;
- Students of heritage, history, archaeology, museology, conservation and related fields;
- Volunteers and members of cultural associations involved in the protection and promotion of heritage.
How it works
Preventive Conservation Course structure
Unit 1 Preventive conservation
1.1. Preventive conservation
- General notions
- Basic principals
- Institutions
1.2. Preventive conservation plan: what to do and how to implement it?
1.3. Contingency plan
Unit 2 – Preventive conservation plan and risk assessment
- What is preventive conservation
- Advantages of a preventive conservation plan
- How to implement an intervention plan: methods and tools
- Risk assessment methodology
- Risk assessment tools
- Practical example of risk assessment
Unit 3 – Agents of deterioration and control measures
Universal agents
- What are universal agents
- Climate change and the occurrence of disasters
- Armed conflicts and cultural heritage
- Heritage emergency plan
-
Specific agents
Physical (light, temperature and relative humidity)
- Risks to cultural heritage
- Control methods and equipment
Chemical
- Types of pollutants
- Risks and effects on various types of materials
- Control systems and equipment
Biological
- Main biological agents
- How to prevent the presence of pests
- Integrated pest management
Unit 4 – Display materials, storage and handling
Handling and storage
- Maintenance
- Exposure methods
- Transport and handling
Exhibition
- Exhibition and Reservations
- Visitors
- Examples of regulations
This course has been designed to provide the tools and methods needed to protect cultural heritage, both in museum settings and in private collections. We answer the most frequently asked questions about preventive conservation and how this certified online course works
FAQ – Online Preventive Conservation Course with Certificate
What is preventive conservation in cultural heritage?
Preventive conservation refers to strategies and measures aimed at preventing or minimizing the deterioration of cultural heritage. It includes environmental control, proper storage, safe handling, and continuous monitoring.
Why take an online preventive conservation course?
An online preventive conservation course provides essential theoretical and practical knowledge to protect cultural assets sustainably. It is a highly valued skill in museums, archives, and cultural institutions.
Does this preventive conservation course include a certificate?
Yes. This online course includes a certificate of completion, which can support your professional development. You can read more about Citaliarestauro’s certificates
When can I start the course?
You can start anytime. As soon as you’ve made the payment, you’ll have 24/7 lifetime access to all the content, allowing you to study at your own pace.
How long is the course?
The course duration is flexible. The course includes a variety of learning resources, and you can decide how much depth you want to cover. You will have lifetime access to the content.
Is this course suitable for beginners?
Yes. The course is designed for beginners as well as professionals in conservation, restoration, museology, and cultural heritage.
Is the course content updated?
Yes, it is updated regularly, and whenever new information becomes available, the course is updated. You don’t have to pay extra to access the updates.
What students say about the course
Author

Susana Mota
Degree in History – Heritage and Post-Graduate in Museology. Has been working in Museology since 1987, namely at the following institutions: Printing Press National Museum, Casa-Museu Abel Salazar (House Museum), Sacred Art and Archaeology Museum – Porto, Episcopal Palace – Porto, Porto Diocese. Roles: conservation and inventory of the museum estate, execution of guided tours, coordination of educational services and staff teams to organise and assemble exhibits. Tutor in Cultural Heritage, Educational Services, Methods of Museological and Archival Inventory, Museography and Preventive Conservation Technical Specialist.

