ISO 10331-1991 PDF

Full title and description

ISO 10331:1991 — Photography — Unprocessed photographic films and papers — Storage practices. Provides recommended storage and handling practices for unprocessed (radiation-sensitive) photographic films and papers from the time of manufacture until processing, to minimise degradation and ensure consistent processing results.

Abstract

This standard gives guidance on storage conditions (temperature, relative humidity), protection from gases and radiation, acclimatization procedures, mechanical requirements and handling for unprocessed photographic films and papers. It applies to both exposed and unexposed radiation‑sensitive materials but does not apply to already processed films and papers.

General information

• Status: Withdrawn.
• Publication date: 28 November 1991 (Edition 1, 1991).
• Publisher: International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
• ICS / categories: 37.040.20 (Photography).
• Edition / version: Edition 1 (1991).
• Number of pages: 3.

Scope

ISO 10331:1991 specifies recommended storage practices for radiation‑sensitive photographic films and papers from manufacture until processing. The scope covers environmental conditions (temperature, relative humidity), gaseous exposures, light and other radiation consideration, acclimatization after transport or temperature change, mechanical storage and handling practices. It explicitly excludes processed photographic materials.

Key topics and requirements

• Recommended ranges and control of relative humidity for short‑ and long‑term storage.
• Recommended temperature limits and temperature‑stability guidance for storage and transport.
• Guidance on avoidance or control of harmful gases and vapours that can damage unprocessed emulsion.
• Protection from ionizing and non‑ionizing radiation, and from light exposure prior to processing.
• Acclimatization procedures when moving between environments of differing temperature/humidity to avoid condensation and physical damage.
• Mechanical storage and handling recommendations to prevent abrasion, pressure marks and deformation.

Typical use and users

Primary users include photographic materials manufacturers, film processors and labs, photographic archivists, museums, libraries, conservation professionals, and facilities responsible for short‑ or long‑term storage of unprocessed films and papers. The guidance is used to design storage rooms, shipping/acclimatisation procedures and handling protocols to preserve image quality prior to processing.

Related standards

ISO 10331:1991 has been withdrawn and was superseded/replaced by ISO 18928:2002 (and related photography/archival standards from ISO/TC 42). For broader archival and photographic material care, consult the ISO/TC 42 series and later ISO standards on photographic materials and archival storage.

Keywords

ISO 10331, photographic film storage, unprocessed photographic paper, storage practices, relative humidity, temperature control, acclimatisation, photographic conservation, ISO photography standards.

FAQ

Q: What is this standard?

A: ISO 10331:1991 is an International Standard titled "Photography — Unprocessed photographic films and papers — Storage practices" that gives recommendations for storing and handling radiation‑sensitive photographic materials prior to processing.

Q: What does it cover?

A: It covers environmental storage conditions (humidity, temperature), protection from gases and radiation, acclimatization after transport or temperature change, mechanical storage and handling to prevent damage, and related practical recommendations for unprocessed films and papers. It does not cover already processed materials.

Q: Who typically uses it?

A: Manufacturers of photographic films and papers, processing laboratories, archives, museums, conservators and any organisations or individuals responsible for storing unprocessed photographic materials.

Q: Is it current or superseded?

A: ISO 10331:1991 has been withdrawn; it was superseded by later ISO work (notably ISO 18928:2002). The official ISO record lists ISO 10331:1991 as withdrawn.

Q: Is it part of a series?

A: It belongs to ISO work under ISO/TC 42 (Photography) and relates to other photographic and archival standards addressing materials, handling and storage; later and more comprehensive guidance is found in successor ISO documents.

Q: What are the key keywords?

A: Photography, unprocessed film, photographic paper, storage practices, humidity, temperature, acclimatisation, ISO 10331.