Documents are on the Regulations page.
We need to be aware of hazards on a theatre stage and environs so we can prevent injuries to anyone on the stage and damage to sets and equipment. The main hazards associated with theatre lighting are:
Electricity – ensure all electrical items have current PAT tag AND do a visual inspection before using. Remove faulty items from service and put an Out Of Service tag on it as well as reporting it to the person in charge so it can be repaired or replaced. Remember it only takes 20 milliamps to stop a heart beating !
Burns from hot lighting, smoke machines, dry ice – Always do a cold focus, no need to leave a light at full intensity when it is not needed, wear leather gloves to prevent burns and cuts. The nozzles of smoke machines can be very hot so stay away from them. Dry ice can be used for some low fog machines but can cause severe frost burns so wear gloves when handling it.
Working at heights, ladders, elevated work platforms – In Western Australia the Occupational Safety and Health regulations 1996 covers working at heights. Use platform ladders in preference to A frame ladders. Most safe work practices require the use of elevated work platforms that require a certificate of competency to use. In community theatre you should work in groups of two or three when using a ladder.
Power tools – drills, saws, staplers, angle grinders – use personal protective equipment such as gloves, safety glasses, ear muffs that are appropriate to the equipment hazards. Make sure you are not going to injure other people near you. It may be necessary to clear a work area when you are using some equipment.
Rigging lighting – lighting bars, booms, stands, safety wires – Be aware of safe rigging procedures, follow manufacturers instructions about rigging restrictions, safe working loads of lighting bars, winches and lighting stands. Take into account static and dynamic loads.
Atmospheric effects – smoke, haze, CO2, sparks, bubble machines – you need to determine if anyone is athsmatic, smoke or haze can affect vocal chords so check with cast members, spark machines can damage eyes, bubble machine and smoke machines can leave a slippery residue on the stage floor.
Unguarded edge of stages, floor traps – be aware of your surroundings before starting work, instruct everyone about the risks of moving during low light conditions and blackouts. Erect safety barriers and control the work space.
Lasers – special permits are required for high powered lasers, even high wattage narrow bean lights can damage the retina.
Pyrotechnics – require a license to operate and the work area must be safe.
Lifting and material handling – do not strain, lift with the knees, check the weight before attempting to lift anything. Do a material handling course.