Preservation includes all activities that contribute to guaranteeing the life of museum objects, whether on exhibition, in storage, or being handled. Essentially, it is a study of the chemical, physical, and photochemical compatibility of the object with all aspects of its environment and an approach to controlling the interaction among them to maintain the intrinsic quality of the object. Fabrics are highly susceptible to degradation caused by mechanical, chemical, and photochemical action. The allocation of an independent area, maintenance of optimum climatic conditions, minimal exposure to illumination, good organization, and establishment of maintenance procedures to minimize handling and contamination are, therefore, essential. People responsible for their care must have visual and tactile sensitivities, be neat and clean, and not mind tedious routines necessary for their care. See also AATA 15-389.