Theater Safety

Theatre productions can be dangerous. Please be alert to possible hazards, work safely, and use common sense to avoid problems. If you are unsure, get advice. Alan Symonds, the Technical Director and Adviser for College Theatre, can be reached anytime for help on any production question.

• If things go wrong during a show, be safe. In case of fire or other emergency, help the audience, cast, and crew get to a safe place in an orderly manner. The Stage Manager should be the central, responsible authority in emergencies, and must have a plan for an efficient evacuation at all times.
• Create a safe stage. Make sure platforms are secure, stairs are solid and marked so they can be seen in the dark, and sets are stable. Performers should advise the production staff of possible problems, and everyone must see that hazardous conditions are fixed promptly. Backstage areas should be clean and free of fire hazards or trip hazards. Production designs should be reviewed by Alan Symonds; early design reviews often save time and money.
• Maintain the Exits. Do not block exit routes or cover exit signs. Do not permit storage or obstructions in exit paths. Make sure chairs will not block aisles during a rapid evacuation.
• Protect people. Keep dressing rooms secure, and lock valuables during shows. Performers engaged in stage combat of any kind must have proper training.
• Scenery must be fire safe. All materials, including cloth covering scenery, must be non-combustible or flame-retardant. Foamed plastics are generally not permitted on stages. Alan Symonds can advise on how to create scenery which meets fire safety standards.
• Don’t work alone. Never use power tools, work at heights, or work on electrical equipment without another person available nearby.
• Know how to use tools. Power tools require training to use them safely. For training, call Alan Symonds, or HTAG.
• Use appropriate ladders properly. Alan Symonds or HTAG can advise.
• Flames or pyrotechnics of any kind are prohibited on H/R stages.
• Accidents must be reported. All injuries or accidents of any kind associated with a theatrical production must be reported immediately to Alan Symonds.