Shad,

Now this is a good question.
If we limit the variables, environment being a records center (withinin
compliance standards), limited handling, arrived from a clean office, etc.
best guess is about 25 years before it begins to show noticeable
degradation. Keep in mind that the vast majority of all records are long
gone by that time. Anything that impacts the environment will shorten the
timeiline rapidly.

Paul Scott brought up archival records and that is a whole nother kettle a
fish. So, non-archival, standard records in a records center should
(starting to sound like an IT person) last about as long as you need them
to. Keep in mind mister Murphy says that the exception will apply in your
case.

Chris Flynn

-----Original Message-----
From: Records Management Program [mailto:[log in to unmask]]On
Behalf Of Shad Turner
Sent: Tuesday, July 11, 2006 2:16 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: [RM] How long will paper last?


Hi there,

I'm setting up my retention schedules and want to include provisions for
microfilming if necessary. For how many years can I expect regular,
recycled bond (and the ink/laser jet type on it) to last while boxed up?
By "to last", I mean that I want somebody to be able to open up the box
and handle the documents normally without excess care.

Thanks,
Shad Turner
Records Coordinator
Government of the Northwest Territories




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