Open Forum

Hello!

Considering using metal scaffolding for our set this year (and possibly next), and was wondering if anyone had any prior experience with this. Considering various issues, including renting vs. buying options. We are located in NJ (not sure if this matters). We have a large stage - approximately 45' wide by 36' deep. Doing Urinetown this year, and possibly Macbeth next and would like to use the scaffolding for both.

Any thoughts/suggestions (including best companies to contact for this) would be appreciated greatly.

Thanks!

-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------

Likewise, I am planning to use scaffolding for at least one production this year. Was likewise wondering if anyone else has worked with scaffolding before? Pros, cons? I am planning to use the scaffolding as something that can be climbed and used by the performers, as well as creating different levels. I haven't yet had time to do the research, but my initial thoughts are purchase from a hardware store like The Home Depot? Or am I being wildly optimistic? Thanks for asking this question! I have been meaning to ask it myself. ------------------------------------------- Phillip Goodchild Valrico FL -------------------------------------------
Original Message: Sent: 08-31-2014 10:57 From: Daniel Devlin Subject: Scaffolding Hello! Considering using metal scaffolding for our set this year (and possibly next), and was wondering if anyone had any prior experience with this. Considering various issues, including renting vs. buying options. We are located in NJ (not sure if this matters). We have a large stage - approximately 45' wide by 36' deep. Doing Urinetown this year, and possibly Macbeth next and would like to use the scaffolding for both. Any thoughts/suggestions (including best companies to contact for this) would be appreciated greatly. Thanks! ------------------------------------------- Daniel Devlin Theatre Department Director / Teacher Plainfield NJ -------------------------------------------

I would suggest renting the gear.  Purchasing could be really expensive.  If you ask, they might let you paint the rented gear, if you return it to them in newly painted yellow.

-------------------------------------------
Michael Johnson
Trinity NC
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-01-2014 18:41
From: Phillip Goodchild
Subject: Scaffolding

Likewise, I am planning to use scaffolding for at least one production this year. Was likewise wondering if anyone else has worked with scaffolding before? Pros, cons?

I am planning to use the scaffolding as something that can be climbed and used by the performers, as well as creating different levels. I haven't yet had time to do the research, but my initial thoughts are purchase from a hardware store like The Home Depot? Or am I being wildly optimistic?

Thanks for asking this question! I have been meaning to ask it myself.

-------------------------------------------
Phillip Goodchild
Valrico FL
-------------------------------------------

Actually is was the same cost to buy as it was to rent when we used scaffolding for our production of "13" a couple of years ago. If you go online and search, even with shipping, you can get exactly what you need for the same cost as renting, and you get to keep it. You can also rehearse with it longer as rentals are by the week!
You might go to a rental place to check out the different configurations and figure out what pieces you need and then buy it. It's very confusing at first, but good customer service people will help you. I ended up using a company in Alabama who were very helpful and sent me parts as I figured out I needed them along the way.
The only thing to consider, it is temporary by design, so it is NOT rock solid even when bolted to the stage floor. You can climb on it, but jumping, swinging, and vaulting over it will require some modification. The railings we used had to be modified to be stronger, as the originals were just flimsy little bars. We kept the ends open (removed the braces) so it provided a tunnel for entrances and exits, and the band was on top. It worked great, and together with truss lighting system framing the proscenium and intelligent lights, we had a really industrial look. 
Hope this helps. Good luck.


-------------------------------------------
Ron Wells
-------------------------------------------
LCJ Summit Middle School
Summit NJ

Original Message:
Sent: 09-02-2014 07:25
From: Michael Johnson
Subject: Scaffolding

I would suggest renting the gear.  Purchasing could be really expensive.  If you ask, they might let you paint the rented gear, if you return it to them in newly painted yellow.

-------------------------------------------
Michael Johnson
Trinity NC
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-01-2014 18:41
From: Phillip Goodchild
Subject: Scaffolding

Likewise, I am planning to use scaffolding for at least one production this year. Was likewise wondering if anyone else has worked with scaffolding before? Pros, cons?

I am planning to use the scaffolding as something that can be climbed and used by the performers, as well as creating different levels. I haven't yet had time to do the research, but my initial thoughts are purchase from a hardware store like The Home Depot? Or am I being wildly optimistic?

Thanks for asking this question! I have been meaning to ask it myself.

-------------------------------------------
Phillip Goodchild
Valrico FL
-------------------------------------------

Hi all

At NIU, we did a production of Almost, Maine last year with a ton of scaffolding.  As Ron mentions, we found that it was actually cheaper to buy it brand new than to rent it, and then it was ours to use for the tech areas.  The vendor we used was ScaffoldStore.com.  Great products, great service, and great prices.

Hope this helps :-)

-------------------------------------------
Tracy Nunnally
Owner/President
DeKalb IL
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-02-2014 12:41
From: Ron Wells
Subject: Scaffolding

Actually is was the same cost to buy as it was to rent when we used scaffolding for our production of "13" a couple of years ago. If you go online and search, even with shipping, you can get exactly what you need for the same cost as renting, and you get to keep it. You can also rehearse with it longer as rentals are by the week!
You might go to a rental place to check out the different configurations and figure out what pieces you need and then buy it. It's very confusing at first, but good customer service people will help you. I ended up using a company in Alabama who were very helpful and sent me parts as I figured out I needed them along the way.
The only thing to consider, it is temporary by design, so it is NOT rock solid even when bolted to the stage floor. You can climb on it, but jumping, swinging, and vaulting over it will require some modification. The railings we used had to be modified to be stronger, as the originals were just flimsy little bars. We kept the ends open (removed the braces) so it provided a tunnel for entrances and exits, and the band was on top. It worked great, and together with truss lighting system framing the proscenium and intelligent lights, we had a really industrial look. 
Hope this helps. Good luck.


-------------------------------------------
Ron Wells
-------------------------------------------
LCJ Summit Middle School
Summit NJ

Original Message:
Sent: 09-02-2014 07:25
From: Michael Johnson
Subject: Scaffolding

I would suggest renting the gear.  Purchasing could be really expensive.  If you ask, they might let you paint the rented gear, if you return it to them in newly painted yellow.

-------------------------------------------
Michael Johnson
Trinity NC
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-01-2014 18:41
From: Phillip Goodchild
Subject: Scaffolding

Likewise, I am planning to use scaffolding for at least one production this year. Was likewise wondering if anyone else has worked with scaffolding before? Pros, cons?

I am planning to use the scaffolding as something that can be climbed and used by the performers, as well as creating different levels. I haven't yet had time to do the research, but my initial thoughts are purchase from a hardware store like The Home Depot? Or am I being wildly optimistic?

Thanks for asking this question! I have been meaning to ask it myself.

-------------------------------------------
Phillip Goodchild
Valrico FL
-------------------------------------------

In the past I have both, borrowed from a local contractor (who was a parent of one of my students) and purchased from Home Depot. We purchased small rolling scaffold pieces, as they suited the needs of our show, from Home Depot. They worked beautifully and have become very useful to have around ever since. We use them for construction, painting and light work instead of ladders at times when we need a bucket or supplies handy etc.  When we borrowed scaffolding it was because we needed to put more than one person at a time on it and have students climb it as scaffolding in the set design. We did not disguise it as something else. A strong safely designed and built platform is always the better choice if you are spending money anyway.

-------------------------------------------
Jill Campbell
Pine Grove Mills PA
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-02-2014 07:25
From: Michael Johnson
Subject: Scaffolding

I would suggest renting the gear.  Purchasing could be really expensive.  If you ask, they might let you paint the rented gear, if you return it to them in newly painted yellow.

-------------------------------------------
Michael Johnson
Trinity NC
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-01-2014 18:41
From: Phillip Goodchild
Subject: Scaffolding

Likewise, I am planning to use scaffolding for at least one production this year. Was likewise wondering if anyone else has worked with scaffolding before? Pros, cons?

I am planning to use the scaffolding as something that can be climbed and used by the performers, as well as creating different levels. I haven't yet had time to do the research, but my initial thoughts are purchase from a hardware store like The Home Depot? Or am I being wildly optimistic?

Thanks for asking this question! I have been meaning to ask it myself.

-------------------------------------------
Phillip Goodchild
Valrico FL
-------------------------------------------

I've been involved in productions in a gymatorium that used scaffolding to create spotlight towers. I've also been in a few that used scaffolding as part of a functional set design. It works really well for Godspell, as scaffolding is something you'd actually find in a cityscape that provides a variety of levels. I agree that any scaffolding would need to be set up properly, including reinforcing connections to make it more sturdy and avoid wobble.

To my knowledge we have not had to purchase or rent scaffolding. It's often something that is fairly easy to borrow. Many large and small businesses in the community have scaffolding that's just sitting around. It's often something you need for a specific project a few times a year, but not on a daily or continuing basis. Making the right connection(s) could give you access to scaffolding for all future productions. In an average school there are probably dozens of parents who own or work for businesses that have scaffolding on hand.

Be a little wary of construction and concrete companies. They often have scaffolding with a lot of rough concrete adhered to it that can be hazardous to costumes and exposed skin. While you're looking, see if the owners would allow you to clean up their scaffolding or even paint it to suit your production. They might not like rainbow colors but might even appreciate having someone clean, remove rust, and paint their scaffolding with a metallic and/or black finish. 

Hope this helps!

-------------------------------------------
Brian Benz
Membership Manager
Educational Theatre Association
Covington KY
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 08-31-2014 10:57
From: Daniel Devlin
Subject: Scaffolding

Hello!

Considering using metal scaffolding for our set this year (and possibly next), and was wondering if anyone had any prior experience with this. Considering various issues, including renting vs. buying options. We are located in NJ (not sure if this matters). We have a large stage - approximately 45' wide by 36' deep. Doing Urinetown this year, and possibly Macbeth next and would like to use the scaffolding for both.

Any thoughts/suggestions (including best companies to contact for this) would be appreciated greatly.

Thanks!

-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------

If you are considering using scaffolding for set pieces or set construction then you should become familiar with the OSHA regulations and other scaffolding safety procedures. This includes the requirements for fall protection when working at height (typically above six feet, but falls from any height can cause serious injuries).

OSHA 1926-452 Scaffolding:
https://www.osha.gov

A Guide to Scaffold Use in the Construction Industry

https://www.osha.gov

Even if your school's operations don't fall under OSHA jurisdiction, treat these rules as if they still apply. When your students move on to the 'the real world' or travel to a location where it does apply, then they will be subject to these regulations and should have a working understanding of them. Lead by example, not by excuse.


-------------------------------------------
Erich Friend
Theatre Consultant
Teqniqal Systems
-------------------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 08-31-2014 10:57
From: Daniel Devlin
Subject: Scaffolding

Hello!

Considering using metal scaffolding for our set this year (and possibly next), and was wondering if anyone had any prior experience with this. Considering various issues, including renting vs. buying options. We are located in NJ (not sure if this matters). We have a large stage - approximately 45' wide by 36' deep. Doing Urinetown this year, and possibly Macbeth next and would like to use the scaffolding for both.

Any thoughts/suggestions (including best companies to contact for this) would be appreciated greatly.

Thanks!
-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------

Thanks all for your advice and suggestions. Lots of great information to ponder. I really appreciate all of you sharing your knowledge and expertise.

Daniel

-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-04-2014 13:29
From: Erich Friend
Subject: Scaffolding



If you are considering using scaffolding for set pieces or set construction then you should become familiar with the OSHA regulations and other scaffolding safety procedures. This includes the requirements for fall protection when working at height (typically above six feet, but falls from any height can cause serious injuries).

OSHA 1926-452 Scaffolding:
https://www.osha.gov

A Guide to Scaffold Use in the Construction Industry

https://www.osha.gov

Even if your school's operations don't fall under OSHA jurisdiction, treat these rules as if they still apply. When your students move on to the 'the real world' or travel to a location where it does apply, then they will be subject to these regulations and should have a working understanding of them. Lead by example, not by excuse.


-------------------------------------------
Erich Friend
Theatre Consultant
Teqniqal Systems
-------------------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 08-31-2014 10:57
From: Daniel Devlin
Subject: Scaffolding

Hello!

Considering using metal scaffolding for our set this year (and possibly next), and was wondering if anyone had any prior experience with this. Considering various issues, including renting vs. buying options. We are located in NJ (not sure if this matters). We have a large stage - approximately 45' wide by 36' deep. Doing Urinetown this year, and possibly Macbeth next and would like to use the scaffolding for both.

Any thoughts/suggestions (including best companies to contact for this) would be appreciated greatly.

Thanks!
-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------

I believe that if you have a railing that is 42" or higher, then you don't need harnesses for fall protection - which of course would be impractical in a live production.  Again check with OSHA.

Regards,

Beth

-------------------------------------------
Elizabeth Rand
High School Theatre Consultant
Rand Consulting and Design
Woodinville WA
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-06-2014 10:17
From: Daniel Devlin
Subject: Scaffolding

Thanks all for your advice and suggestions. Lots of great information to ponder. I really appreciate all of you sharing your knowledge and expertise.

Daniel

-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-04-2014 13:29
From: Erich Friend
Subject: Scaffolding



If you are considering using scaffolding for set pieces or set construction then you should become familiar with the OSHA regulations and other scaffolding safety procedures. This includes the requirements for fall protection when working at height (typically above six feet, but falls from any height can cause serious injuries).

OSHA 1926-452 Scaffolding:
https://www.osha.gov

A Guide to Scaffold Use in the Construction Industry

https://www.osha.gov

Even if your school's operations don't fall under OSHA jurisdiction, treat these rules as if they still apply. When your students move on to the 'the real world' or travel to a location where it does apply, then they will be subject to these regulations and should have a working understanding of them. Lead by example, not by excuse.


-------------------------------------------
Erich Friend
Theatre Consultant
Teqniqal Systems
-------------------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 08-31-2014 10:57
From: Daniel Devlin
Subject: Scaffolding

Hello!

Considering using metal scaffolding for our set this year (and possibly next), and was wondering if anyone had any prior experience with this. Considering various issues, including renting vs. buying options. We are located in NJ (not sure if this matters). We have a large stage - approximately 45' wide by 36' deep. Doing Urinetown this year, and possibly Macbeth next and would like to use the scaffolding for both.

Any thoughts/suggestions (including best companies to contact for this) would be appreciated greatly.

Thanks!
-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------

One should also consider the use of the equipment.  In the flying business, we frequently use actual cranes to lift people for effects, but OSHA rules do not apply to the performers suspended from the hooks because we are not in a "worksite" environment. Before I get corrected on this point, let me assure you that local OSHA AHJs and I usually have a thorough discussion on the topic before he agrees with me, but I have always prevailed.

I am likely going to be flamed for the following, but, as a professional TD, this is how we typically treat the use of items like scaffolding.  The use of items such as ladders and scaffolding for a production arguably removes them form the classification of worksite tools and puts them into the grey area of "scenery", which is not regulated by any building code or regulations.  In the same way that the downstage edge of a stage does not need a railing, even though there is a 20 foot drop to the orchestra pit floor, a well braced scaffolding does not need a downstage railing if it is used as a scenic element.  

HOWEVER, with that being said, a thorough examination of risk analysis / risk reduction should be done to ensure that the performers are safe.  For example, if no railing is to be used on the downstage edge, the scaff should be 100% secured from moving (in any and all directions) and the deck should be firmly secured to the frame, essentially making it a stage platform.  One should take all of the same precautions taken as if a legged platform was being used instead of the scaffolding.

Regardless of whether using scaffolding, platforms, risers, or cranes, a competent person should be in charge of the RA/RR process, should be a primary member of the construction/implementation team, and should train the performers in the proper precautions to take when working in that area.

That last paragraph is really important.  I hope this helps.

-------------------------------------------
Tracy Nunnally
Owner/President
DeKalb IL
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-08-2014 23:31
From: Elizabeth Rand
Subject: Scaffolding

I believe that if you have a railing that is 42" or higher, then you don't need harnesses for fall protection - which of course would be impractical in a live production.  Again check with OSHA.

Regards,

Beth

-------------------------------------------
Elizabeth Rand
High School Theatre Consultant
Rand Consulting and Design
Woodinville WA
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-06-2014 10:17
From: Daniel Devlin
Subject: Scaffolding

Thanks all for your advice and suggestions. Lots of great information to ponder. I really appreciate all of you sharing your knowledge and expertise.

Daniel

-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-04-2014 13:29
From: Erich Friend
Subject: Scaffolding



If you are considering using scaffolding for set pieces or set construction then you should become familiar with the OSHA regulations and other scaffolding safety procedures. This includes the requirements for fall protection when working at height (typically above six feet, but falls from any height can cause serious injuries).

OSHA 1926-452 Scaffolding:
https://www.osha.gov

A Guide to Scaffold Use in the Construction Industry

https://www.osha.gov

Even if your school's operations don't fall under OSHA jurisdiction, treat these rules as if they still apply. When your students move on to the 'the real world' or travel to a location where it does apply, then they will be subject to these regulations and should have a working understanding of them. Lead by example, not by excuse.


-------------------------------------------
Erich Friend
Theatre Consultant
Teqniqal Systems
-------------------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 08-31-2014 10:57
From: Daniel Devlin
Subject: Scaffolding

Hello!

Considering using metal scaffolding for our set this year (and possibly next), and was wondering if anyone had any prior experience with this. Considering various issues, including renting vs. buying options. We are located in NJ (not sure if this matters). We have a large stage - approximately 45' wide by 36' deep. Doing Urinetown this year, and possibly Macbeth next and would like to use the scaffolding for both.

Any thoughts/suggestions (including best companies to contact for this) would be appreciated greatly.

Thanks!
-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------

ALL schools fall under OSHA jurisdiction.

-------------------------------------------
John Perry
Drama Instructor
Atherton High School
Louisville KY
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-04-2014 13:29
From: Erich Friend
Subject: Scaffolding



If you are considering using scaffolding for set pieces or set construction then you should become familiar with the OSHA regulations and other scaffolding safety procedures. This includes the requirements for fall protection when working at height (typically above six feet, but falls from any height can cause serious injuries).

OSHA 1926-452 Scaffolding:
https://www.osha.gov

A Guide to Scaffold Use in the Construction Industry

https://www.osha.gov

Even if your school's operations don't fall under OSHA jurisdiction, treat these rules as if they still apply. When your students move on to the 'the real world' or travel to a location where it does apply, then they will be subject to these regulations and should have a working understanding of them. Lead by example, not by excuse.


-------------------------------------------
Erich Friend
Theatre Consultant
Teqniqal Systems
-------------------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 08-31-2014 10:57
From: Daniel Devlin
Subject: Scaffolding

Hello!

Considering using metal scaffolding for our set this year (and possibly next), and was wondering if anyone had any prior experience with this. Considering various issues, including renting vs. buying options. We are located in NJ (not sure if this matters). We have a large stage - approximately 45' wide by 36' deep. Doing Urinetown this year, and possibly Macbeth next and would like to use the scaffolding for both.

Any thoughts/suggestions (including best companies to contact for this) would be appreciated greatly.

Thanks!
-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------

"ALL schools fall under OSHA jurisdiction." - This is NOT true.  It depends on which state you live in.  In a 'state plan' OSHA state the regulations may apply to government entities like public schools, but in a' federal plan' state they may be exempt, unless the state legislature has included them.  Private schools, however, are under OSHA jurisdiction.  Either way, OSHA regulations only apply to paid employees, not the students and volunteers.  This is why I said it is best practice to treat your classroom and theatre as if it was under OSHA jurisdiction, as it prepares the students (and volunteers) to be mindful of safety considerations as they move from venue to venue through their career (even if it is outside of the theatre).
 
Understanding OSHA regulations and their implications is a 'life skill' that is not typically taught anywhere in a school curriculum.  You can use this to leverage support for fine arts programs in that they provide useful skills that employers seek (I think it would be difficult for the football program to pose that argument - curiously, the athletic departments routinely get funding for $100+ helmets, where the theatre department might struggle to acquire funding for $5 hard hats).
-------------------------------------------
Erich Friend
Theatre Consultant
Teqniqal Systems
-------------------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 09-06-2014 10:23
From: John Perry
Subject: Scaffolding

ALL schools fall under OSHA jurisdiction.
-------------------------------------------
John Perry
Drama Instructor
Atherton High School
Louisville KY
-------------------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 09-04-2014 13:29
From: Erich Friend
Subject: Scaffolding

If you are considering using scaffolding for set pieces or set construction then you should become familiar with the OSHA regulations and other scaffolding safety procedures. This includes the requirements for fall protection when working at height (typically above six feet, but falls from any height can cause serious injuries).

OSHA 1926-452 Scaffolding:
https://www.osha.gov

A Guide to Scaffold Use in the Construction Industry

https://www.osha.gov

Even if your school's operations don't fall under OSHA jurisdiction, treat these rules as if they still apply. When your students move on to the 'the real world' or travel to a location where it does apply, then they will be subject to these regulations and should have a working understanding of them. Lead by example, not by excuse.
-------------------------------------------
Erich Friend
Theatre Consultant
Teqniqal Systems
-------------------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 08-31-2014 10:57
From: Daniel Devlin
Subject: Scaffolding

Hello!

Considering using metal scaffolding for our set this year (and possibly next), and was wondering if anyone had any prior experience with this. Considering various issues, including renting vs. buying options. We are located in NJ (not sure if this matters). We have a large stage - approximately 45' wide by 36' deep. Doing Urinetown this year, and possibly Macbeth next and would like to use the scaffolding for both.

Any thoughts/suggestions (including best companies to contact for this) would be appreciated greatly.

Thanks!
-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------

Thanks for that. My school system goes by OSHA. But the way they operate is "OSHA won't allow that so we're closing that area off and you can't use it." So I can't use the catwalk that allows access to the three lighting coves in the theatre. Lights have to be focused and geled in a rep plot.

-------------------------------------------
John Perry
Drama Instructor
Atherton High School
Louisville KY
-------------------------------------------


Original Message:
Sent: 09-08-2014 13:50
From: Erich Friend
Subject: Scaffolding

"ALL schools fall under OSHA jurisdiction." - This is NOT true.  It depends on which state you live in.  In a 'state plan' OSHA state the regulations may apply to government entities like public schools, but in a' federal plan' state they may be exempt, unless the state legislature has included them.  Private schools, however, are under OSHA jurisdiction.  Either way, OSHA regulations only apply to paid employees, not the students and volunteers.  This is why I said it is best practice to treat your classroom and theatre as if it was under OSHA jurisdiction, as it prepares the students (and volunteers) to be mindful of safety considerations as they move from venue to venue through their career (even if it is outside of the theatre).
 
Understanding OSHA regulations and their implications is a 'life skill' that is not typically taught anywhere in a school curriculum.  You can use this to leverage support for fine arts programs in that they provide useful skills that employers seek (I think it would be difficult for the football program to pose that argument - curiously, the athletic departments routinely get funding for $100+ helmets, where the theatre department might struggle to acquire funding for $5 hard hats).
-------------------------------------------
Erich Friend
Theatre Consultant
Teqniqal Systems
-------------------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 09-06-2014 10:23
From: John Perry
Subject: Scaffolding

ALL schools fall under OSHA jurisdiction.
-------------------------------------------
John Perry
Drama Instructor
Atherton High School
Louisville KY
-------------------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 09-04-2014 13:29
From: Erich Friend
Subject: Scaffolding

If you are considering using scaffolding for set pieces or set construction then you should become familiar with the OSHA regulations and other scaffolding safety procedures. This includes the requirements for fall protection when working at height (typically above six feet, but falls from any height can cause serious injuries).

OSHA 1926-452 Scaffolding:
https://www.osha.gov

A Guide to Scaffold Use in the Construction Industry

https://www.osha.gov

Even if your school's operations don't fall under OSHA jurisdiction, treat these rules as if they still apply. When your students move on to the 'the real world' or travel to a location where it does apply, then they will be subject to these regulations and should have a working understanding of them. Lead by example, not by excuse.
-------------------------------------------
Erich Friend
Theatre Consultant
Teqniqal Systems
-------------------------------------------

Original Message:
Sent: 08-31-2014 10:57
From: Daniel Devlin
Subject: Scaffolding

Hello!

Considering using metal scaffolding for our set this year (and possibly next), and was wondering if anyone had any prior experience with this. Considering various issues, including renting vs. buying options. We are located in NJ (not sure if this matters). We have a large stage - approximately 45' wide by 36' deep. Doing Urinetown this year, and possibly Macbeth next and would like to use the scaffolding for both.

Any thoughts/suggestions (including best companies to contact for this) would be appreciated greatly.

Thanks!
-------------------------------------------
Daniel Devlin
Theatre Department Director / Teacher
Plainfield NJ
-------------------------------------------