Theater & Performing Arts Safety Program
Performing Arts productions can involve numerous hazards and risks related to aerial acrobatics, the use of theatrical fog and pyrotechnics, working at heights, shop activities, audience safety considerations and more. The Theater & Performing Arts Safety Program ensures compliance with OSHA 1910, OSHA 1926, ANSI E1 Entertainment Technology Standards, and all professional Lighting and Sound Association regulations.
What you need to know
- OSHA does not have any industry-specific standards for the entertainment industry. Generally, the entertainment industry would be covered under the general industry standards, although there may be some construction jobs that would be required to follow the construction standards.
- As a rigger, using a climbing belt “Swiss seat” as a positioning device may be permissible. However, it can not be used as a fall protection device.
- A full-body harness would be an appropriate fall protection device for working at heights of 75′ to 150′.
- This program applies to the following rigging systems used within theater areas: motorized systems, counterweighted systems, stationary systems, and hemp systems.
- Take prompt corrective action when unsafe conditions are observed, including ensuring the necessary arrangements are made for repair.
- Inspection requirements include: Pre-use, Annual, and Third party inspections.
Services
The Environmental Health and Safety Office offers the following services:
- Theatre Performance Plan Reviews
- Hazard Identification and Correction
- Fall Protection Assessments
- Fall Protection Training
- Ladder Safety Assessments