Preventing Event Hazards

Many work activities from venue setup to tear-down take place when you run an event. Learn how to prevent common hazards associated with event management.

Before and After the Event

Common hazards associated with venue setup and tear-down include fall from heights, chemical exposure, and cuts and stabs.

 

Fall from heights

Causes

  • Installing equipment (e.g. LED display) on truss frames
  • Climbing ladders to hang banners

Controls

  • Use stable work platforms e.g. Mobile Elevated Work Platform (MEWP), scaffold.
  • Use fall prevention or fall arrest systems.

 

Chemical exposure

Causes

  • Using adhesives or paint when making displays and props

Controls

  • Ensure adequate ventilation on-site.
  • Wear respirators and chemical-resistant gloves.

 

 

Cuts and stabs

Causes

  • Using sharp or wrong hand tools
  • Over-exerting when using blunt tools

Controls

  • Use the correct and proper tools for the job.
  • Wear cut-resistant gloves when working.

 

 

During the Event

Common hazards encountered during the event include trips and falls, asphyxiation and loud noise.

 

 

Trips and falls

Causes

  • Electrical cables running around the stage
  • Low light condition in backstage area

Controls

  • Perform regular housekeeping.
  • Ensure adequate natural or artificial lighting.

 

 

Asphyxiation

Causes

  • Fogging of propellants to create atmospheric effects during performance

Controls

  • Provide adequate mechanical ventilation.
  • Minimise fogging amount for desired effects.

 

 

Loud noise

Causes

  • Working near speakers placed on and around the stage

Controls

  • Engage an acoustic consultant to assess noise level.
  • Wear earmuffs or ear plugs during work.

 

 

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