Safety First! - Chapter Six

Personal Safety PrinciplesPage 126

Safety is paramount in the theatre to maintain a fun and functional environment. Key personal safety measures include wearing appropriate clothing that isn't baggy or overly tight, removing dangling jewelry that could get caught in machinery, wearing sturdy shoes to protect against hazards, and keeping long hair tied back. These precautions prevent common workshop injuries like cuts, entanglements, and burns.

Protective Equipment and Respiratory HealthPage 127

The chapter highlights the necessity of using specialized gear, including safety goggles for eye protection, face shields, and ear protection like earmuffs or plugs when dealing with noisy equipment. For respiratory health, dust masks are used for particles, while respirators are required for airborne chemicals. It is emphasized that MSDS documentation should be consulted to understand specific material hazards.

Working at Heights: Ladders and LiftsPage 136

Safe work at height requires specific knowledge of ladders (step, A-frame, and extension) and personnel lifts. Operators must follow strict guidelines, such as ensuring outriggers are properly deployed on lifts and using harnesses or tool leashes when necessary. Using equipment incorrectly, like standing on the top rung of a ladder, poses a significant risk.

Fire Safety and PreventionPage 139

Fire safety in the theatre involves knowing exit locations, using thermal barriers like Zetex to protect scenery from lighting heat, and understanding the difference between 'fireproof' and 'fire retardant' materials. The chapter outlines active protection systems, including fire curtains for proscenium stages, automatic sprinkler systems, and deluge systems for high-hazard areas, alongside the importance of familiarizing oneself with fire extinguishers.

Managing Emergencies and HazardsPage 144

Workers must be aware of potential allergic reactions, such as latex sensitivities, and carbon monoxide risks. The text shares historical 'horror stories'—such as the Hartford Circus Fire and the Rhode Island nightclub fire—to stress that shortcuts during load-ins and strikes can have catastrophic consequences. Always remain vigilant and never rely on a false sense of security.