Describes treatments tested and used for protecting historical ironwork (artifacts of marine, agricultural and domestic origin) by the Norfolk Museums Services (England). Discusses the criteria for selecting treatments including type, quality and durability of finish, reversibility, cost, etc. Describes the following treatments: tannin-based treatments; rust removers; temporary protectives which are used during transportation and storage; lacquers. Also describes two tests found useful in assessing the suitability of products: tests for corrosion at high temperature and high humidity and tests for adhesion and stickiness. Waxoyl is a treatment found to have many advantages. Discussion.