Overview
The National Monuments Service expects that all works carried out under the Licences or Consents that we issue will be carried out to the highest standards of current best practice.
Our Standards and Guidance
To support and promote best practice in carrying out archaeological works, we have produced the following guidance and standards documents:
- Framework and Principles for the Protection of the Archaeological Heritage—overarching statement on policy and general practice for the protection of archaeological heritage
- Policy and Guidelines on Archaeological Excavation—best-practice guidance for carrying out legally compliant archaeological excavations
- Guidelines for Authors of Reports on Archaeological Excavation—best-practice guidance for compiling reports on the results of archaeological excavations
- Advice to the Public on the use of Metal Detection Devices—best-practice guidance on the use of metal detection devices
- Archaeology and Flood Relief Schemes: Guidelines and Appendix—best-practice guidance for the management of archaeology and the carrying out of archaeological works in the context of Flood Relief Schemes
Other Standards and Guidance
The following organisations also provide guidance and standards documents relevant to carrying out archaeological works and activities:
- National Museum of Ireland—guidance for the treatment of artefacts and human remains
- Institute of Archaeologists of Ireland—a range of standards and guidance for best practice for professional archaeologists
- The Heritage Council—a range of standards and guidance for best practice for professional archaeologists and those commissioning archaeological works
- Transport Infrastructure Ireland—best practice guidance for managing and carrying out archaeological works in relation to road and light rail projects
- Eirgrid—best practice guidance for managing and carrying out archaeological works in relation to energy infrastructure projects