Intended to assist developing countries in the essential task of preserving historical records and, therefore, deliberately oriented towards economy and a low level of technology, this study provides an outline of currently accepted standards that archivists in developing countries, especially those in tropical areas, can apply to their own situations. Following a description of the physical aspects of records and a summary of the main dangers that threaten them, guidelines are provided for the design of archive buildings; protection against specific hazards, including unsuitable levels of humidity, air pollution, light, theft, physical damage, fire, insects, mold, and animal pests; shelving and packing; exhibitions; and preserving non-traditional records, such as films and computer tapes. In addition, 13 specific recommendations are provided for the protection of records against unsuitable environmental conditions. A 70-item bibliography and a 55-item list of RAMP (Records and Archives Management Programme) publications and related documents are also included. (KM)