Ah the wonders of the lever arch binder ... an interesting creature.
Massive to look at and a serious user of space; it holds a variety of sizes
of paper but its main strength is the ability to withstand variations in
climate.  

It is a hold over from British Records Offices or Registry systems.  In
climates where temperatures regularly reach 30 - 40C (+90F for the
metrically challenged) and 80 % humidity, the lever arch binder will
survive.  In fact overseas accounting offices in Africa, South America, the
Middle East and the Caribbean, prefer the lever arch as it allows them to
manage large case files in one location and protected from the vagaries of
the elements.   Not to mention reduced document loss in cases of cyclones or
hurricanes.  In North American accounting offices that remain paper driven,
the "Shannon" file is an equivalent though not as sturdy an item.  

On my web site www.cccrecords.com on the downloads page (right click - save
target as) there is a somewhat dated but brief listing of equipment and
supplies in common use in North America.  In this document, there is also a
photo of a green pressboard folder (25lb weight).  

Through experience in high humidity and heat climates, I have found that the
pressboard will survive and allow records offices to use both box and open
shelving (although if you can get 30 lb it is superior).  The folders do
eventually curl a bit if no air-conditioning is available ... or
intermittent, but they can reduce space and allow for end-tab colour coding,
plastic end tab charge-out folders etc.  

The only problem is importing ... as the cost of paper products is usually
outrageous in high humidity countries with a limited paper industry.
Development of standards that allow for such types of filing equipment and
supplies and subtle encouragement of importers could make modern records
supplies available in parts of the world that must rely on heavy duty lever
arch binders and similar products.   I am sure Mr. O'Brien in Hong Kong has
experienced similar issues.

Regards

Jim

Jim Connelly, CRM
8 Oakdale Place
St. Albert, Alberta
T8N 6K6
1-780-460-7089

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