EN 16085:2012
(Main)Conservation of Cultural property - Methodology for sampling from materials of cultural property - General rules
Conservation of Cultural property - Methodology for sampling from materials of cultural property - General rules
This European Standard provides a methodology and criteria for sampling cultural property materials for their scientific investigation. It covers, for example, how to characterize the material(s), assess the condition, determine the deterioration causes and/or mechanism(s) and decide on and/or evaluate the conservation treatment(s). Apart from sampling, this document also provides requirements for documentation, and handling of sample(s).
This European Standard does not deal with the decision making process for taking a sample nor how the sample is to be used.
Erhaltung des kulturellen Erbes - Verfahren der Probenahme an Materialien des kulturellen Erbes - Allgemeine Regeln
Diese Norm legt ein Verfahren und Kriterien zur Probenahme an Materialien des kulturellen Erbes im Hinblick auf deren wissenschaftliche Untersuchung fest, z. B. um das/die Material(ien) zu charakterisieren, den Zustand zu bestimmen, Schadensursachen und/oder –mechanismen zu ermitteln und über Konservierungsbehandlungen zu entscheiden und/oder zu bewerten. Neben der Probenahme liefert dieses Dokument auch Anforderungen an die Dokumentation und den Umgang mit der/den Probe(n).
Diese Norm behandelt nicht den Entscheidungsprozess, ob eine Probe genommen werden ebenso wenig wie die Art in der die Probe genutzt werden muss.
Conservation des biens culturels - Méthodologie d'échantillonnage des matériaux - Règles générales
La présente Norme européenne fournit une méthodologie et des critères relatifs à l’échantillonnage des matériaux constitutifs des biens culturels en vue d’une étude scientifique. Elle couvre, par exemple, la façon de caractériser le type de matériau(x), d’évaluer l'état de ce(s) dernier(s), de déterminer les causes et/ou mécanismes de détérioration et de prendre des décisions concernant les traitements de conservation et/ou d’évaluer ces traitements. Outre l'échantillonnage, le présent document énonce également des exigences relatives à la documentation et à la manipulation des échantillons.
La présente Norme européenne ne traite pas du processus de prise de décision aboutissant à l'échantillonnage, ni de la manière dont l'échantillon sera utilisé.
Ohranjanje kulturne dediščine - Metodologija za vzorčenje materialov kulturne dediščine - Splošna pravila
Ta evropski standard določa metodologijo in metode za vzorčenje materialov kulturne dediščine za znanstveno preiskavo. Zajema na primer način za opredelitev materialov, vrednotenje stanja, določitev vzrokov in/ali mehanizmov za razpadanje in odločanje o konzervatorski obdelavi in/ali oceni te obdelave. Ta dokument poleg vzorčenja zagotavlja tudi zahteve za dokumentacijo in delo z vzorci. Ta evropski standard ne obravnava postopka sprejemanja odločitev pri odvzemu vzorca in načina uporabe vzorca.
General Information
- Status
- Published
- Publication Date
- 31-Jul-2012
- Withdrawal Date
- 27-Feb-2013
- Technical Committee
- CEN/TC 346 - Conservation of cultural property
- Current Stage
- 9093 - Decision to confirm - Review Enquiry
- Start Date
- 22-May-2024
- Completion Date
- 14-Apr-2025
Overview
EN 16085:2012 is a European standard developed by CEN that establishes a comprehensive methodology for sampling materials from cultural property. Designed specifically for conservation professionals, this standard outlines general rules and criteria for taking scientifically useful samples from items of cultural heritage. The goal is to enable accurate characterization, condition assessment, and evaluation of deterioration mechanisms to support informed conservation treatments. Although sampling is inherently invasive, EN 16085 emphasizes minimizing damage and ensuring proper documentation, handling, and storage of samples.
Key highlights of EN 16085:2012 include detailed requirements for sampling planning, operation, recording, and packaging, making it a valuable reference for heritage conservators, researchers, and institutions managing cultural assets.
Key Topics
Scope of Sampling
The standard defines sampling as the removal of a representative portion of cultural property material for scientific investigation. It covers characterization, condition assessment, and investigation of deterioration causes but does not address the decision-making process on whether to sample or how samples are used after collection.Sampling Criteria and Justification
Sampling should only occur with clear justification and in close consultation with responsible authorities. It must comply with legal and institutional conservation policies and aim to minimize visible damage. Sample size and number must be sufficient yet minimal.Sampling Plan Development
A robust sampling plan is essential, formulated after a preliminary survey. This plan specifies:- Research questions and objectives
- Locations, number, size, and nature of samples
- Authorized personnel and sampling methods
- Protocols for remaining sample disposition
- Archiving of sampling documentation
Comprehensive Sample Documentation
Accurate and detailed recording during sampling ensures traceability and future reference. Information includes:- Unique sample identification codes
- Sampling aims and planned scientific investigations
- Cultural property identification and condition reports
- Sampling date, personnel, and precise sampling locations with photographic evidence and scale references
- Sample description (type, physical state, color, stratigraphy)
- Sampling method and tools used
- Environmental and handling conditions before analysis
Handling and Storage
Samples must be correctly packaged to prevent contamination, physical damage, or alteration. Storage conditions should reflect the sample’s nature to preserve integrity until scientific investigation.
Applications
Conservation Science
EN 16085 provides the framework to obtain scientifically valuable samples from cultural objects, facilitating material analysis that is critical for diagnosing deterioration and planning sustainable conservation treatment.Museum and Heritage Management
Professionals can use this standard to develop ethical and reproducible sampling protocols, ensuring that invasive procedures are justified and documented thoroughly, complying with institutional policies and legislation.Research and Analytical Laboratories
The standard’s emphasis on detailed sampling records and handling ensures that laboratories receive high-quality, traceable samples suitable for reliable examination and testing.Condition Assessment and Restoration Projects
Enables conservators to strategically take samples that assist in detailed condition surveys and to validate or design conservation interventions based on scientific evidence.
Related Standards
- EN 15898:2011 – Conservation of cultural property – Main general terms and definitions
- EN 16095:2012 – Conservation of cultural property – Condition recording for movable cultural heritage
- EN 16096:2012 – Conservation of cultural property – Condition survey and report of built cultural heritage
These standards complement EN 16085 by providing a structured vocabulary, condition assessment protocols, and comprehensive procedures for documenting cultural property condition, forming an integrated framework for conservation activities.
By adhering to EN 16085:2012, conservation professionals ensure that sampling of precious cultural materials is performed responsibly, systematically, and with a strong scientific basis-maximizing the value of investigations while preserving heritage for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions
EN 16085:2012 is a standard published by the European Committee for Standardization (CEN). Its full title is "Conservation of Cultural property - Methodology for sampling from materials of cultural property - General rules". This standard covers: This European Standard provides a methodology and criteria for sampling cultural property materials for their scientific investigation. It covers, for example, how to characterize the material(s), assess the condition, determine the deterioration causes and/or mechanism(s) and decide on and/or evaluate the conservation treatment(s). Apart from sampling, this document also provides requirements for documentation, and handling of sample(s). This European Standard does not deal with the decision making process for taking a sample nor how the sample is to be used.
This European Standard provides a methodology and criteria for sampling cultural property materials for their scientific investigation. It covers, for example, how to characterize the material(s), assess the condition, determine the deterioration causes and/or mechanism(s) and decide on and/or evaluate the conservation treatment(s). Apart from sampling, this document also provides requirements for documentation, and handling of sample(s). This European Standard does not deal with the decision making process for taking a sample nor how the sample is to be used.
EN 16085:2012 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 97.195 - Items of art and handicrafts. Cultural property and heritage. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
You can purchase EN 16085:2012 directly from iTeh Standards. The document is available in PDF format and is delivered instantly after payment. Add the standard to your cart and complete the secure checkout process. iTeh Standards is an authorized distributor of CEN standards.
Standards Content (Sample)
2003-01.Slovenski inštitut za standardizacijo. Razmnoževanje celote ali delov tega standarda ni dovoljeno.Erhaltung des kulturellen Erbes - Methodologie der Probenahme von Materialien des kulturellen Erbes - Allgemeine RegelnConservation des biens culturels - Méthodologie d'échantillonnage des matériaux - Règles généralesConservation of Cultural property - Methodology for sampling from materials of cultural property - General rules97.195Umetniški in obrtniški izdelkiItems of art and handicraftsICS:Ta slovenski standard je istoveten z:EN 16085:2012SIST EN 16085:2012en,fr,de01-oktober-2012SIST EN 16085:2012SLOVENSKI
STANDARD
EUROPEAN STANDARD NORME EUROPÉENNE EUROPÄISCHE NORM
EN 16085
August 2012 ICS 97.195 English Version
Conservation of Cultural property - Methodology for sampling from materials of cultural property - General rules
Conservation des biens culturels - Méthodologie d'échantillonnage des matériaux - Règles générales
Erhaltung des kulturellen Erbes - Verfahren der Probenahme an Materialien des kulturellen Erbes - Allgemeine Regeln This European Standard was approved by CEN on 23 June 2012.
CEN members are bound to comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration. Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on application to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre or to any CEN member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other language made by translation under the responsibility of a CEN member into its own language and notified to the CEN-CENELEC Management Centre has the same status as the official versions.
CEN members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and United Kingdom.
EUROPEAN COMMITTEE FOR STANDARDIZATION
COMITÉ EUROPÉEN DE NORMALISATION EUROPÄISCHES KOMITEE FÜR NORMUNG
Management Centre:
Avenue Marnix 17,
B-1000 Brussels © 2012 CEN All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CEN national Members. Ref. No. EN 16085:2012: ESIST EN 16085:2012
Example of sampling data sheet .8 SIST EN 16085:2012
...
The standard EN 16085:2012 serves as a crucial guideline for the conservation of cultural property by establishing a comprehensive methodology for sampling materials. Its scope is particularly relevant to conservation professionals, archaeologists, and researchers involved in the preservation of cultural heritage. By providing a structured approach to sampling, the standard ensures that conservation efforts are based on sound scientific investigation and material characterization. One of the strengths of this standard is its detailed criteria for assessing the condition of materials, which is essential for understanding their deterioration mechanisms. This allows practitioners to effectively determine the underlying causes of degradation, paving the way for informed conservation treatments. Moreover, EN 16085:2012 emphasizes the importance of meticulous documentation and handling of samples, which enhances the reliability and credibility of the research and conservation processes. The relevance of EN 16085:2012 extends beyond mere sampling; it is a foundational document that guides cultural heritage professionals in making strategic decisions regarding conservation treatments. While it does not delve into the decision-making process for sampling or outlines the use of the sample, its detailed methodology and general rules provide a framework that supports best practices in the conservation of cultural property. In summary, EN 16085:2012 is an invaluable standard that addresses critical aspects of material sampling and conservation, contributing significantly to the preservation of cultural heritage and ensuring that samples are collected, managed, and documented with the utmost care. Its focus on methodology, condition assessment, and conservation treatment evaluation reinforces its importance in the field.
Die Norm EN 16085:2012 bietet eine umfassende Methodologie für die Entnahme von Proben aus Materialien des Kulturerbes, was sie zu einem unverzichtbaren Dokument in der Konservierung von Kulturgütern macht. Ihr Anwendungsbereich erstreckt sich auf alle Aspekte der Probenentnahme und -analyse, wodurch eine fundierte wissenschaftliche Untersuchung der Materialien ermöglicht wird. Eine der größten Stärken dieser Norm ist die klare Definition der Kriterien, die für die Charakterisierung der Materialien und die Bewertung ihres Zustands erforderlich sind. Dies hilft Fachleuten im Bereich der Konservierung, die Ursachen und Mechanismen der Verschlechterung präzise zu identifizieren. Zudem legt die Norm auch fest, wie die gewählten konservatorischen Maßnahmen beurteilt und dokumentiert werden sollten, was zur Verbesserung der nachfolgenden Erhaltungsmaßnahmen beiträgt. Die Relevanz der EN 16085:2012 kann nicht hoch genug eingeschätzt werden, da sie nicht nur den theoretischen Rahmen für die Probenentnahme bietet, sondern auch praktische Anforderungen für die Dokumentation und Handhabung der Proben festlegt. Diese Norm gewährleistet somit eine qualitativ hochwertige und reproduzierbare Herangehensweise an die Herausforderung, Kulturgut zu erhalten, und stellt sicher, dass alle Schritte des Prozesses sowohl dokumentiert als auch nachvollziehbar sind. Insgesamt ist die EN 16085:2012 eine essentielle Leitlinie für Fachleute, die sich mit der Konservierung von Kulturgütern beschäftigen, da sie nicht nur die Methodik der Probenentnahmestandardisiert, sondern auch deren Anwendung in der wissenschaftlichen Forschung sistematisiert.
La norme EN 16085:2012 offre une méthodologie essentielle pour l'échantillonnage des matériaux des biens culturels, garantissant une approche systématique et scientifique dans l'évaluation des biens culturels. L'un des points forts de cette norme est sa capacité à définir des critères précis pour caractériser les matériaux, ce qui est crucial pour une conservation efficace. Ce texte normalisé aborde non seulement l'identification de l'état des matériaux mais aussi l'évaluation des causes de détérioration. Cela permet aux professionnels de la conservation de mieux comprendre les mécanismes de dégradation, facilitant ainsi le choix de traitements de conservation adaptés. En intégrant des directives sur la documentation et la manipulation des échantillons, la norme assure une gestion rigoureuse et responsable des ressources prélevées, promouvant ainsi la conservation et l'intégrité des biens culturels. Toutefois, il est important de noter que cette norme n'aborde pas le processus décisionnel quant à la prise d'échantillons ni la manière dont les échantillons doivent être utilisés. Cela pourrait limiter son application pratique pour certaines situations spécifiques où un cadre décisionnel plus complet serait nécessaire. Dans l'ensemble, la norme EN 16085:2012 est très pertinente pour les professionnels du domaine de la conservation du patrimoine culturel. Elle fournit des lignes directrices claires et des méthodologies robustes qui sont essentielles pour garantir la préservation à long terme des matériaux précieux, tout en respectant les meilleures pratiques en matière de conservation.
EN 16085:2012 표준은 문화재의 보존을 위한 방법론을 제시하는 중요한 문서입니다. 이 표준은 문화재 재료의 샘플링을 위한 과학적 조사를 수행하기 위한 방법론과 기준을 제공하며, 재료의 특성화, 상태 평가, 열화 원인 및 메커니즘 결정, 보존 처리의 결정 및 평가를 포함합니다. 이러한 포괄적인 접근 방식은 문화재의 과학적 분석 및 그에 따른 보존 전략 수립에 필수적입니다. 이 표준의 강점 중 하나는 샘플링 외에도 문서화 요구사항 및 샘플 처리에 대한 지침을 포함하고 있다는 점입니다. 이는 보존 과정의 투명성과 일관성을 높이며, 연구자와 보존 전문가 간의 의사소통을 원활하게 합니다. 또한, 문화재의 보전 및 관리에 있어 필수적인 정보를 제공함으로써 다양한 이해 관계자들이 효과적으로 협력할 수 있도록 돕습니다. 현재 문화재 보존 분야에서는 과학적 데이터와 객관적 분석이 필수적이므로, EN 16085:2012의 중요성이 더욱 부각됩니다. 이 표준은 문화유산을 보호하고 인정받기 위한 기초를 마련해 주며, 보존 활동의 품질을 높이는 데 기여할 것입니다. 따라서 보존 관련 전문가와 연구자에게 있어 이 표준은 반드시 숙지해야 하는 필수 문서입니다.
EN 16085:2012は、文化財の保存に関する重要な標準であり、文化財の材料からのサンプリングに関する方法論と一般的なルールを提供しています。この標準は、科学的調査のための文化財材料のサンプリングに関して、包括的な枠組みを提示しており、材料の特性評価、状態の査定、劣化の原因やメカニズムの特定、さらには保存処置の決定や評価までを網羅しています。 この標準の強みは、その慎重なアプローチにあります。具体的には、文化財の材料をサンプリングする際に考慮すべきさまざまな要因を明確に示しているため、信頼性のある結果が得られやすくなっています。また、文化財の保存において必須となる文書化とサンプルの取り扱いに関する要件を提供している点も重要です。これにより、保存作業がより透明性を持って行われることが期待されます。 EN 16085:2012は、文化財の保存に関心のある専門家や研究者にとって、極めて重要な参考資料となります。本標準は、国際的な視点からも文化財の保存手法を統一する役割を果たしており、文化財の価値を次世代へと継承するための基盤を提供しています。
Questions, Comments and Discussion
Ask us and Technical Secretary will try to provide an answer. You can facilitate discussion about the standard in here.
Loading comments...