Rigging and Staging Tips : Good Practices for Safe Event Setups

Rigging and staging are the foundation of so many successful events, whether it's a theatrical production, concert, or corporate conference. The safety of your setup is paramount—not only to protect your audience, crew and performers but also to ensure a smooth and successful event. 

Even the best equipment from Prolyte requires diligent safety practices and proper use. This article will provide you with essential rigging and staging safety tips for duty holders. 

Know Your Equipment 

Before you start rigging, it’s essential to have a thorough understanding of the products you are using. Whether it’s some H30V truss, StageDex staging system, or chain hoists, each product has its specifications and safety guidelines. 

• Review the manuals: Always read the user manuals provided by your chosen manufacturer. These manuals contain vital information about load capacities, installation procedures, and maintenance requirements. 

• Attend training: Where possible, attend training hosted by your chosen manufacturer or one of their certified partners. Prolyte runs regular training sessions for beginners and rigging professionals. These events, called ‘Prolyte Campus’, are held across the UK and Europe. Stage Electrics often co-hosts these events in the UK. To find out more about Prolyte Campus and when the next event is, click here or email hello@stage-electrics.co.uk. If you have purchased trussing or staging from Stage Electrics, you may also be able to book exclusive training for you and your team. 

• Ask your account manager: If you have recently purchased trussing or staging from Stage Electrics, your account manager can direct you to the best place to find the most up-to-date safety advice.

Understanding the Risks 

Rigging often involves working at height, managing heavy equipment and suspending loads over people. Without proper precautions, these activities can lead to dangerous situations. Here are a few potential hazards: 

• Falls from Height: Rigging often requires working on incomplete structures or in areas with limited fall protection, making falls a significant risk. 

• Falling Equipment: Misconnections, anchor point failures, or dropped items can cause equipment to fall, endangering those below. 

• Structural Collapse: Overloaded or faulty components, adverse weather conditions, or inadequate bracing can cause structures to collapse or topple. 

• Suspension Trauma: This life-threatening condition occurs when a person is left motionless in a harness for too long without rescue arrangements in place. 

• Electrocution: Faulty electrical hoists, connectors, or control units can cause electrocution, especially when equipment damages live electrical lines. 

Legal Requirements and Standards 

Safety in rigging is not just a recommendation—it's a legal requirement. In the UK, several regulations govern rigging activities, including: 

• Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER): Ensures equipment is safe, suitable, and operated by trained individuals. 

• Lifting Operations and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER): Covers the strength, stability, and safety inspection of lifting equipment. 

• Work at Height Regulations 2005: Mandates proper planning and organisation for all work conducted at height, including rescue plans and fall prevention measures. 

• Electricity at Work Regulations 1989: Ensures all electrical equipment is safe and maintained to prevent danger during use. 

Stage Electrics provide mechanical and electrical Inspection and Testing services. Find out more here.

Conduct a Thorough Risk Assessment 

Before any rigging begins, a comprehensive risk assessment should be conducted. This involves identifying potential hazards, evaluating the risks, and implementing control measures. 

• Site Survey: Inspect the venue to identify any structural limitations, such as ceiling height, load-bearing capacity, and access points. 

• Load Calculation: Calculate the total weight of the rigging and staging setup, including trusses, lights, screens, and speakers. Ensure that the total load does not exceed the safe working load (SWL) of the Prolyte truss or hoist system you’re using. 

Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

Adhering to the manufacturer’s guidelines is essential and non-negotiable when it comes to safety. 

• Proper Assembly: Ensure that all components of your trussing and staging are assembled correctly, using the recommended connectors and accessories. Improper assembly can compromise the entire structure and create a potentially dangerous environment. 

• Load Distribution: It’s important to distribute weight appropriately across the truss system; overloading any single point could lead to structural failure. 

Competency, Communication and Information Exchange 

Always ensure appropriately competent persons are carrying out your rigging activities. Effective communication is vital for safe rigging operations. Ensure your Rigging Supervisor is involved in every stage: 

• Review Production Schedules: Including any Construction Phase Plans. 

• Examine Design Plans: Including rigging plots, weights, and attachment methods. 

• Assess Risk: Review risk assessments, venue safety rules, and any other relevant documentation. 

• Provide Rigging Plans: The Rigging Supervisor should provide detailed rigging plots, load calculations, and risk assessments for the equipment being used. 

These documents should be compiled into a Safety File, readily accessible on-site or during the tour. 

There are many factors that go into rigging safety, if you would like to enquire about our Inspection and Testing services for mechanical and electrical equipment click here.

For enquiries about rigging and staging email hello@stage-electrics.co.uk.