🎭Stage Management Unit 11 – Safety Protocols & Emergency Procedures

Key Safety Concepts

• Safety is the top priority in stage management involves protecting the well-being of cast, crew, and audience members
• Hazard identification is the process of recognizing potential sources of harm or danger in the theater environment
• Risk assessment evaluates the likelihood and severity of identified hazards to prioritize safety measures
• Hazard control implements strategies to eliminate, substitute, or mitigate risks (engineering controls, administrative controls, PPE)
• Safety culture encompasses the shared values, attitudes, and behaviors that prioritize safety at all levels of the organization
  • Includes regular safety training, open communication, and a proactive approach to identifying and addressing hazards
• Compliance with industry standards (OSHA, NFPA) and local regulations is essential for maintaining a safe working environment
• Continuous improvement involves regularly reviewing and updating safety protocols based on new information, incidents, or changes in the workplace

Risk Assessment Basics

• Identify hazards by conducting thorough inspections of the stage, backstage areas, and equipment
• Analyze the likelihood of each hazard occurring consider factors such as frequency of use, condition of equipment, and personnel training
• Evaluate the potential severity of consequences for each hazard including injuries, property damage, or show disruptions
• Prioritize risks based on the combination of likelihood and severity to allocate resources effectively
• Develop control measures to mitigate prioritized risks which may include modifying equipment, implementing safety procedures, or providing training
• Monitor and review the effectiveness of control measures regularly and make adjustments as needed
• Document risk assessments, control measures, and any incidents or near-misses for future reference and continuous improvement

Common Stage Hazards

• Slips, trips, and falls due to uneven surfaces, loose cables, or poor lighting
  • Ensure proper cable management, use cable covers or tape, and maintain adequate lighting in work areas
• Falling objects from overhead rigging, set pieces, or lighting instruments
  • Secure all overhead equipment properly, use safety cables, and establish clear protocols for overhead work
• Electrical hazards from faulty wiring, overloaded circuits, or improper grounding
  • Regular inspections, maintenance of electrical systems, and use of GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlets
• Fire hazards from pyrotechnics, open flames, or flammable materials
  • Adhere to fire safety regulations, use flame-retardant materials, and establish emergency evacuation plans
• Noise-induced hearing loss from loud sound effects or prolonged exposure to high noise levels
  • Implement a hearing conservation program, provide hearing protection, and monitor noise levels
• Ergonomic hazards from repetitive motions, awkward postures, or heavy lifting
  • Provide ergonomic training, use proper lifting techniques, and rotate tasks to reduce strain
• Chemical hazards from paints, solvents, or fog/haze fluids
  • Use less hazardous alternatives, provide proper ventilation, and ensure appropriate PPE is worn

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

• PPE is the last line of defense against hazards when other control measures are insufficient
• Hard hats protect against falling objects and are required for overhead work or in construction areas
• Safety glasses or goggles protect eyes from flying debris, dust, or chemicals
• Earplugs or earmuffs protect against noise-induced hearing loss in high noise environments
• Gloves protect hands from cuts, abrasions, or chemical exposure (choose appropriate glove material for the task)
• Steel-toed boots protect feet from falling objects or crushing hazards
• Respirators protect against inhaling harmful dusts, fumes, or vapors (ensure proper fit and training)
• Fall protection harnesses and lanyards protect against falls from heights
• Ensure PPE is properly fitted, maintained, and replaced when damaged or worn out

Fire Safety and Prevention

• Develop and implement a comprehensive fire safety plan that includes prevention, detection, and response measures
• Conduct regular fire drills and ensure all personnel are familiar with evacuation routes and procedures
• Install and maintain fire detection systems (smoke detectors, heat sensors) and fire suppression systems (sprinklers, fire extinguishers)
• Use flame-retardant materials for sets, costumes, and curtains to reduce fire spread
• Properly store and handle flammable materials (paints, solvents, pyrotechnics) in designated areas away from ignition sources
• Establish a fire watch during performances or rehearsals involving pyrotechnics, open flames, or other fire hazards
• Keep exit routes clear and well-lit, with visible signage and emergency lighting
• Regularly inspect and maintain electrical systems to prevent overloading or faulty wiring that could lead to fires

Emergency Response Plans

• Develop a comprehensive emergency response plan that covers various scenarios (fire, severe weather, medical emergencies, active shooter)
• Identify roles and responsibilities for key personnel during emergencies (stage manager, house manager, security)
• Establish clear communication protocols and chains of command for emergency situations
• Provide regular training and drills for all personnel on emergency procedures and their specific roles
• Designate and clearly mark emergency assembly points for cast, crew, and audience members
• Maintain an up-to-date contact list for key personnel, local authorities, and emergency services
• Ensure emergency equipment (first aid kits, AEDs, flashlights) is readily accessible and regularly inspected
• Coordinate with local emergency services (fire department, police) to familiarize them with the venue and emergency plans

First Aid and Medical Emergencies

• Ensure an adequate number of personnel are trained in first aid, CPR, and AED use
• Maintain well-stocked first aid kits in easily accessible locations throughout the theater
• Establish a clear protocol for reporting and responding to injuries or medical emergencies
• Identify and communicate the location of the nearest hospital or urgent care facility
• Maintain a log of all injuries and medical incidents for record-keeping and future prevention efforts
• Provide cast and crew with information on common health hazards (dehydration, heat exhaustion) and prevention measures
• Encourage open communication about health concerns and accommodate reasonable requests for medical accommodations
• Regularly review and update first aid protocols and training based on industry best practices and any incidents that occur

Communication During Crises

• Establish a clear chain of command and roles for communication during emergency situations
• Use a reliable and efficient communication system (two-way radios, emergency notification software) to ensure all personnel can be reached quickly
• Develop pre-scripted messages or templates for various emergency scenarios to ensure consistent and accurate information is shared
• Designate a single point of contact (stage manager, house manager) to communicate with external parties (media, emergency services) to avoid confusion
• Provide regular updates to cast, crew, and audience members during emergencies to maintain calm and order
• Establish a protocol for post-emergency communication, including debriefing, counseling, and sharing lessons learned
• Train all personnel on effective communication techniques during high-stress situations (clear and concise language, active listening)
• Regularly test and maintain communication equipment to ensure it is functioning properly when needed