The purpose of this guide is to identify the key risk hazards of the working environment in the theatre and entertainment industry and present some ideas on how to minimise or eliminate those risks.

The very nature of theatre involves some special hazards, including safety hazards, fire hazards and chemical hazards. Backstage crew, performers, and sometimes even the audience can be at risk.

Within the theatre, there is lifting of heavy scenery, and manipulation of this, often large scenery, props, and lighting or special effects equipment in a very small space.

The hours of work are irregular and the backstage is often very cramped, especially in older theatres, and there is the pressure that the 'show must go on'.

The document has now been universally accepted and adopted by most entertainment venues and is fully endorsed by EVANZ, the Entertainment Venues Association of New Zealand.

Table of Contents

Employers and Employees Legal Responsibilities
Health & Safety is a Joint Responsibility
Definitions
Venue Responsibilities
Fire Safety
Working At Heights
Elevated Platforms And Work Spaces
Scaffolds
Ladders
Rigging And Flying Operations / Flying of Performers
Working On The Stage / Performance Space
Set Construction and Carpentry Operation
Hazards Relating to Portable Tools
Hazards Created by Plant, Equipment and Substances
Working in a Confined Space
Welding
Manual Handling
General Risk / Fatigue / Drugs / Stress / Hours of Work
Lighting and Electrical
Laser
Firearms and weapons
Pyrotechnics
Dry Ice And Smoke Effects / Naked Flame
Noise / Sound
Temperature
Security & Transport to and from work
Biological Hazards
Wardrobe
Productions Utilising the Engagement of Children
Productions Utilising Animals
Risk & Hazard Management
Theatre Health & Safety Check List
LASER APPENDIX 1
Pyrotecnics APPENDIX 2
Smoke / Fog APPENDIX 3
Noise / Sound APPENDIX 4
Manual Handling APPENDIX 5
Bibliography