Knowledge about the proper care and treatment of museum objects has increased greatly in recent years. Museum curators used to have little interest in the material well-being of their objects, and the members of the technical staff were not educated and trained specifically for their jobs. The Dutch government's Delta Plan for the preservation of the cultural heritage caused museums to complete their inventories, to evaluate the physical condition of the objects, and to conserve the objects in the greatest need of treatment. These activities made those concerned aware of the problems and of the lack of knowledge, which had to be gathered. The actual handling of an object not only means the risk of damage to the object, but also to the body of the person carrying it. Pain in the back is well-known, but also toes and fingers are at risk. Inhalation of dust should be avoided. One person must not carry a weight over 20 kg. Two hands must be used, and the back is to remain stretched while lifting an object. First, the weak points of the object to be lifted have to be discovered. Places to be gripped must be chosen deliberately. Finally, it must be decided how and what to do to finish the job, avoiding distractions. Risks in storage rooms include: poor climatic conditions, an overdose of light, and water leakage from pipes and drains. The use in these rooms of construction materials from which gaseous compounds like formaldehyde, formic acid, and acetic acid can be emitted should be avoided. Cupboards made of ashwood, deal, or metal are safe. Always place objects on a sheet of acid-free paper, with the exception of metals (because of the water content of paper). High workload and shortage of work space are enemies of safety in storage rooms. Do not place objects directly on floors. Keep the room tidy and do not cause dust to be moved around. Packing objects for transport requires care and space; small objects should be counted. One should be conscious of all types of risks and hazards when moving objects through a museum. Routine is the greatest risk, as one tends to get careless. Training and professionalism are important. A higher rank does not confer certain privileges in carelessness.