Yes. I was set up at a mobile (World War Two Navy) display, and had a gentleman come by and look over the display. He told me that he would be right back. He went home, got his artifacts, and brought them back to me for donation to our organization.
They were a pair of 3" white phosphorous star shells (illuminating naval artillery) that he had brought back with him from his time in the Navy, about 40 years prior to our meeting. They had been sitting on either side of his fireplace ever since.
The gentleman handed the star shells to me, and explained he was donating them to us. I turned the shells over, and noted the date of manufacture - 1944. I also noted that the shells were still live - that is, they have not been rendered safe. I very carefully set the shells down in a spot away from everything, had my guys cordon off the area, and called a friend who specializes in these things. In addition, I explained to the gentleman what was going on, as he was very confused. Needless to say, he was extremely shocked to know that the shells were live.
I transferred the shells over to the explosives guys, and they dealt with it. Nobody got in trouble or was cited.
It is a good thing to make friends with your local bomb squad and hazardous response units. They can save you a heap of trouble. We have had all sorts of items given to us that we turn over to the haz-mat or bomb squad guys.
------------------------------
Robert Ratliff
Director, History Fanatics
Houston TX
------------------------------
Original Message:
Sent: 04-24-2017 01:17 PM
From: James Castro
Subject: Hazardous Materials
Dear Friends:
Has anyone experienced receiving a donation or purchasing an item requiring the item be verified it does not contain hazardous materials? Is there such a form or document a donor or vendor would sign certifying this?
Thank you.
------------------------------
James Castro
President/CEO
San Antonio Museum of Science & Technology
San Antonio TX
------------------------------