"The preparator is also a conservator and makes every effort to ensure that the prepared specimen will resist deterioration for as long as possible. The qualified preparator recognizes the agents of deterioration and understands the principles of preventive and remedial conservation. The preparator is familiar with the current literature, principles, ethics, and specialized vocabulary of conservation."

AMMP Back to Basics Video: Conservation Principles and Ethics

"The qualified preparator understands that preparation is part of the scientific process and ensures that all data generated within the laboratory, including identifications, photographs, preparation records, and housing materials are documented and archived. The preparator keeps identifying numbers in association with specimens throughout the preparation process. The preparator keeps records of all tools, techniques, and materials used to prepare or house the specimen that might impact physical or chemical interpretation, or that might have to be removed in the future. The qualified preparator is able to create publishable documentation of materials and methods for inclusion in scientific descriptions of the specimen."

AMMP Back to Basics Video: Documenting the Changing Nature of Museum Specimens 

"The qualified preparator can select the most appropriate tools and techniques to skillfully reveal scientific information, and safeguard the long-term well being of the specimen. The preparator should be proficient in the preparation of common modes of vertebrate fossil preservation and in challenging situations should be able to seek further guidance in the preparation and conservation literature. The preparator augments this knowledge through professional conferences and communication with colleagues. "

AMMP Back to Basics Video: Aptitude for Fossils as Materials and Tools and Techniques - linked to segment about tool use and techniques

"The qualified preparator is familiar with the range of adhesives available and is able to select the most appropriate adhesive for a given task. The preparator has knowledge of the physical and chemical properties, uses of various adhesives, the setting mechanism and reversibility of adhesives, their solvents, and the advantages and disadvantages conveyed by each kind of adhesive. The preparator should also be familiar with the ethical implications of using adhesives on museum objects and the kinds of scientific data that may be obscured, lost or destroyed by the use of adhesives. A qualified preparator is conversant in adhesives terminology and nomenclature and is able to justify decisions and correctly document adhesives used on specimens in preparation records and reports for publication. The preparator is able to mitigate and manage the potential health risks associated with the use of adhesives and solvents."

 AMMP Back to Basics Video: Understanding and Use of Adhesvies

"The qualified preparator is familiar with the ethical implications of using molding compounds on museum specimens and the kinds of scientific data that may be obscured, lost or destroyed during the molding process. The preparator is able to determine the suitability of the fossil for molding and type of mold produced based on its fragility, morphology, and other physical properties. The preparator is familiar with the physical properties and uses of various gap fillers, separators, molding and casting compounds commonly used in paleontology, is adept in their use and also trained in the management of potential health risks associated with molding and casting."

AMMP Back to Basics Video: Understanding and Use of Molding and Casting Materials and Techniques

"The preparator is aware that an essential step in the long-term conservation of fossil material is the use of archival labeling, housing, and proper storage environment. The qualified preparator incorporates specially designed archival housings into their preparation strategy, in collaboration with collection management staff. The preparator is knowledgeable about archival materials and proper storage environments and can recognize deterioration due to improper materials or storage conditions. As the understanding of storage materials evolves, the preparator is able to evaluate and modify storage materials and methods to ensure the long-term stability of the specimen."

AMMP Back to Basics Video: Use of Archival Labeling, Housings and Storage Environment

"The preparator is able to mitigate the risk of damage from research and education as much as possible without compromising the scientific value of a fossil specimen. The preparator is able to evaluate whether the specimen would be subject to undue or unnecessary risk by sampling, handling, loan, or display. A qualified preparator understands exhibition as a form of specialized specimen storage, and can evaluate exhibitions and their accompanying furniture, lighting, and other materials to ensure their compatibility with sound conservation practices."

"The preparator is aware that specimens should be collected with the goal of obtaining a stable specimen while ensuring that the greatest amount of geological and biological information is preserved, and understands that no fossil should be collected without comprehensive documentation. The preparator ensures that specimens are collected in a manner that facilitates preparation in the laboratory. The preparator knows and practices proper health and safety procedures while working out of doors in varying climatic conditions."

AMMP Back to Basics Video: Understanding Fieldwork

"The qualified preparator has the training to ensure their own safety and the safety of their coworkers and visitors by determining and mitigating physical and chemical hazards in the paleontology laboratory. The preparator should be able to comprehend Material Safety Data Sheets and select appropriate personal protective equipment and environmental controls, and have basic knowledge of emergency response and first aid."

AMMP Back to Basics Video: Health and Safety