Adapted from the work of Dr. Randall W.A. Davidson “Dr. Doom”

1. Purpose and Scope

1.1 Purpose

This document establishes a risk management framework for educational theater programs at the secondary and post-secondary levels. The framework provides theater educators with systematic methods to identify, assess, and control hazards inherent in theatrical production while maintaining artistic integrity and educational objectives. A positive safety culture represents an important foundation, but comprehensive risk management extends beyond culture to encompass systematic identification, assessment, control, and monitoring of all organizational exposures.

1.2 Scope

This framework applies to:

1. All theatrical productions, including rehearsals, technical work, and performances
2. Scene shops, costume shops, paint shops, and storage facilities
3. Performance venues, including stages, catwalks, and control booths
4. All personnel, including faculty, staff, students, and volunteers
5. Contracted services, visiting artists, and vendor relationships
6. Special effects, including pyrotechnics, atmospheric effects, and theatrical weapons
7. Load-in, load-out, and transportation operations
8. Front-of-house operations and audience management

1.3 Broader Application

While this framework targets educational theater, the principles and methodologies apply broadly across the entertainment industry. Appendix C provides a comprehensive list of venue types and activities where these principles apply, including professional theater, concert production, television and film studios, theme parks, cruise ship entertainment, convention events, houses of worship, rodeos, circuses, and community theater. Organizations in these sectors may adapt this framework to their specific operational contexts.

1.4 Normative Language

Throughout this document, “shall” indicates a mandatory requirement, “should” indicates a recommendation, and “may” indicates a permissive option. This convention aligns with ANSI standards development practices (ANSI, 2018).

2. Definitions

The following definitions apply to this framework:

1. Hazard: A source, situation, or act with the potential to cause harm in terms of human injury or ill health, property damage, or environmental impact (ISO 45001:2018).
2. Risk: The combination of the likelihood of an occurrence of a hazardous event and the severity of injury or damage that can be caused by the event (ANSI/ASSP Z590.3-2021).
3. Risk Assessment: The process of evaluating risks arising from hazards, taking into account the adequacy of existing controls, and determining whether the risks are acceptable (ISO 31000:2018).
4. Control: A measure that modifies risk, including policies, procedures, guidelines, practices, or organizational structures (ISO 31000:2018).
5. Competent Person: An individual who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions and who has authorization to take prompt corrective measures (29 CFR 1926.32).
6. Qualified Person: An individual who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, work, or project (ANSI E1.6-1).
7. Risk Transfer: The practice of shifting the financial consequences of a risk to another party, typically through insurance or contractual provisions.
8. Cumulative Risk: The combined effect of multiple interrelated hazards that, when occurring together, create a risk level greater than any single hazard in isolation.
9. Acute Health Effect: An adverse health effect that occurs immediately or shortly after exposure to a hazardous agent.
10. Chronic Health Effect: An adverse health effect that develops over time following repeated or prolonged exposure to a hazardous agent.
11. Emerging Risk: A risk that is new or evolving, arising from changes in technology, operations, regulations, or external conditions, and for which experience and data may be limited.

3. The Business Case for Risk Management

3.1 Financial Impact of Incidents

Incidents of any magnitude carry financial consequences that extend beyond immediate costs. Programs that fail to implement systematic risk management expose their institutions to significant financial liability. Understanding these costs strengthens the case for resource allocation to prevention efforts.

Direct and indirect costs of incidents include:

1. Medical expenses and workers’ compensation claims: Direct costs for treatment, rehabilitation, and disability payments. Experience modification rates increase with claims, raising future premium costs.
2. Property and equipment damage: Repair or replacement costs, deductibles, and potential premium increases.
3. Production delays and cancellations: Lost ticket revenue, refund processing, and rescheduling costs.
4. Legal expenses: Defense costs, settlements, and judgments. Litigation costs can exceed insurance coverage limits.
5. Regulatory penalties: OSHA citations, fire code violations, and ADA complaints carry financial penalties.
6. Reputational damage: Reduced enrollment, donor concerns, and community trust erosion.
7. Administrative burden: Investigation time, documentation, corrective action implementation, and reporting requirements.
8. Replacement and retraining costs: Hiring temporary personnel, training replacements, and lost institutional knowledge.

3.2 Return on Prevention Investment

Research consistently demonstrates that investment in prevention yields positive returns. The National Safety Council estimates that employers save $4 to $6 for every $1 invested in workplace safety programs (NSC, 2023). For educational theater programs, prevention investments include training, equipment maintenance, inspections, and administrative systems. These investments reduce incident frequency and severity, lower insurance costs, improve program reputation, and protect students and personnel.

4. Program Requirements

4.1 Administrative Requirements

Each educational theater program shall establish a documented risk management program that includes:

1. A written policy statement endorsed by administration
2. Designated responsibility for program implementation
3. Documented procedures for hazard identification and risk assessment
4. Emergency action plans specific to theatrical operations, including drill schedules
5. Training and competency verification records
6. Incident investigation and reporting procedures
7. Scheduled program evaluation and continuous improvement processes
8. Cyber security protocols for networked production systems
9. Accessibility compliance documentation per ADA requirements
10. Insurance certificates and risk transfer documentation
11. Quality control procedures for scenic construction and equipment fabrication

4.2 Committee Composition and Credentials

Programs should establish a risk management committee or designate responsible parties with appropriate credentials. Committee members should include individuals with expertise in theatrical operations, occupational safety, and institutional risk management. At minimum, the committee should include the technical director, a faculty representative, and a liaison to institutional safety or risk management offices. Committee members should receive training in hazard recognition, risk assessment methodology, and applicable regulatory requirements. Credentials to consider include Certified Safety Professional (CSP), Associate Safety Professional (ASP), OSHA 30-hour certification, or equivalent educational background in occupational safety.

4.3 Governance and Reporting Structure

Effective risk management requires clear reporting relationships and accountability. Programs shall establish:

1. Reporting hierarchy: Define who receives risk management reports, at what frequency, and in what format.
2. Administrative notification thresholds: Specify which incident types or risk levels require immediate notification to department heads, deans, or institutional leadership.
3. Board or advisory committee briefings: Where applicable, include risk management status in regular reports to governing bodies or advisory boards.
4. Cross-functional coordination: Establish relationships with institutional safety, facilities, human resources, and legal counsel.
5. Documentation access: Ensure risk management records are accessible for audits, regulatory inspections, and legal proceedings.

4.4 Regulatory Compliance

Theater programs shall maintain compliance with applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Primary regulatory frameworks include:

Regulation	Application
29 CFR 1910	General industry: walking/working surfaces, PPE, electrical, hazard communication, machine guarding, respiratory protection
29 CFR 1926	Construction activities: scaffolding, fall protection, excavation during installation
ADA/Section 504	Accessibility requirements for performers, technicians, and audience members
NFPA 101	Life Safety Code: egress, occupancy loads, emergency lighting
NFPA 102	Assembly occupancies: audience seating, temporary structures
NFPA 160	Flame effects before an audience
NFPA 70	National Electrical Code: permanent and temporary wiring
ANSI E1 Series	Entertainment technology: rigging, electrical, fall arrest, fog/haze

4.5 Risk Transfer and Insurance

Risk transfer through insurance represents an essential component of comprehensive risk management. Programs shall maintain appropriate insurance coverage, including general liability, workers’ compensation, and property coverage. Programs should coordinate with institutional risk management to verify coverage adequacy for theatrical operations, including coverage for visiting artists, rented equipment, and off-site performances. Contracts with vendors, guest artists, and rental companies shall include appropriate indemnification provisions and certificate of insurance requirements. Workers’ compensation experience modification rates should be monitored as an indicator of program safety performance.

4.6 Cyber Security

Modern theatrical production relies on networked systems for lighting control, sound, projection, and rigging automation. Programs shall implement cybersecurity protocols for production networks, including access controls, network segmentation, and software update procedures. Systems controlling performer safety, such as automated rigging, shall be isolated from general network access. Programs should coordinate with institutional IT security for penetration testing and vulnerability assessment of production control systems.

4.7 External Consultant Engagement

Programs should evaluate when external expertise is warranted. Consider engaging outside consultants when:

1. Specialized technical knowledge exceeds internal capabilities (rigging inspections, structural assessments)
2. Objective third-party assessment is needed for program evaluation or incident investigation
3. Regulatory compliance requires certified inspectors or qualified professionals
4. New technologies or techniques are being introduced without internal experience
5. High-hazard activities require additional oversight (pyrotechnics, performer flying, complex rigging)

5. Hierarchy of Controls

Risk controls shall be selected and implemented according to the hierarchy of controls established by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH, 2023). Controls higher in the hierarchy provide more effective and reliable protection.

5.1 Control Hierarchy

1. Elimination: Remove the hazard entirely. Example: Eliminating the use of open flame by substituting LED candles.
2. Substitution: Replace the hazard with a less dangerous alternative. Example: Using glycol-based fog instead of oil-based haze.
3. Engineering Controls: Isolate personnel from the hazard through physical means. Example: Installing guardrails on elevated platforms.
4. Administrative Controls: Change the way work is performed through policies, procedures, and training. Example: Requiring buddy systems for after-hours work.
5. Personal Protective Equipment: Provide barriers worn by personnel. Example: Requiring safety glasses in the scene shop. PPE shall be considered the last line of defense, not the primary control.

5.2 Application in Educational Theater

When selecting controls for theatrical hazards, educators shall first evaluate whether higher-level controls are feasible before defaulting to administrative controls or PPE. Artistic intent does not exempt productions from the requirement to implement the most effective feasible controls.

6. Risk Assessment Process

6.1 Assessment Methodology

Risk assessments shall be conducted using a systematic process:

1. Identify hazards through script analysis, technical requirements review, venue inspection, and consultation with production personnel.
2. Determine who might be harmed and how, including performers, technicians, students, and audience members.
3. Evaluate risks by determining the likelihood and severity of potential harm using the risk matrix provided in Section 6.2.
4. Consider cumulative risks where multiple hazards may interact to create elevated risk levels beyond any single hazard.
5. Determine control measures using the hierarchy of controls, documenting selected controls and rationale.
6. Record findings and implement controls, assigning responsibility and completion dates.

6.2 Risk Matrix

The following matrix shall be used to evaluate and prioritize risks. Risk level is determined by the intersection of likelihood and severity.

Likelihood / Severity	Minor	Moderate	Serious	Critical
Almost Certain	Medium	High	Extreme	Extreme
Likely	Low	Medium	High	Extreme
Possible	Low	Low	Medium	High
Unlikely	Low	Low	Low	Medium
Rare	Low	Low	Low	Low

6.3 Scoring Methodology

To ensure consistent risk evaluation across assessors, programs should establish scoring criteria. Likelihood ratings consider historical incident data, frequency of exposure, and control reliability. Severity ratings consider potential for fatality, hospitalization, lost time, first aid only, or property damage. Assessors should document rationale for ratings to enable review and calibration. When assessors disagree on ratings, the higher rating should be used until additional information resolves the discrepancy.

6.4 Required Response by Risk Level

Risk Level	Required Action	Timeline
Extreme	Activity shall not proceed until risk is reduced. Requires administrative approval to continue.	Immediate
High	Controls shall be implemented before activity proceeds. Department head notification required.	Before activity begins
Medium	Controls should be implemented. Monitor and review regularly.	Within production timeline
Low	Manage through routine procedures. Document and monitor.	Routine review cycle

6.5 Emerging Risk Identification

Risk management programs shall include processes for identifying emerging risks that may not be captured by routine assessments. Sources of emerging risk include:

1. New technologies: LED walls, automation systems, immersive environments, drone applications
2. Changing production practices: Site-specific work, immersive theater, extended reality integration
3. Regulatory changes: New OSHA enforcement initiatives, updated codes and standards
4. Industry incident trends: Patterns identified through professional organizations, trade publications, incident databases
5. Environmental factors: Climate change impacts on outdoor events, air quality considerations
6. Social trends: Audience expectations, performer wellness considerations, accessibility demands

7. Common Theatrical Hazards

The following categories represent hazards frequently encountered in educational theater. This list is not exhaustive; each production shall be assessed for unique hazards based on its specific requirements.

7.1 Falls from Elevation

Falls represent the leading cause of serious injury in theatrical environments. Work at heights occurs during lighting focus, rigging operations, scenic installation, and performer blocking on elevated platforms. OSHA requires fall protection at four feet in general industry (29 CFR 1910.28) and six feet in construction (29 CFR 1926.501). ANSI E1.46 provides entertainment-specific fall protection guidance.

7.2 Rigging and Suspended Loads

Counterweight fly systems, motorized hoists, and temporary rigging present crushing and struck-by hazards. All rigging systems shall be inspected by a qualified person before each production (ANSI E1.6-1). Only trained personnel shall operate fly systems. Load calculations shall be documented and verified.

7.3 Electrical Hazards

Theatrical lighting and sound systems involve high-amperage circuits and temporary wiring. All electrical work shall comply with the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70) and ANSI E1.15 for recommended practices for DMX512. Ground fault circuit interrupter protection is required for outdoor events and wet locations.

7.4 Scene Shop Operations

Power tools, pneumatic equipment, and material handling create laceration, amputation, and respiratory hazards. Machine guarding shall comply with 29 CFR 1910.212. Respiratory protection may be required for wood dust exposure (29 CFR 1910.134). Hearing protection should be provided when noise levels exceed 85 dBA.

7.5 Atmospheric Effects

Fog, haze, and smoke effects can trigger respiratory reactions and obscure egress paths. Safety Data Sheets shall be maintained for all fog fluids. Performers with respiratory conditions shall be notified before rehearsals involving atmospheric effects. Smoke detectors in performance venues may require coordination with building management.

7.6 Theatrical Weapons and Combat

Prop weapons, stage combat, and firearm effects require specialized training and strict protocols. Fight choreography shall be supervised by a qualified fight director. All weapons shall be secured when not in use. Blank-firing weapons require a licensed armorer and compliance with local ordinances.

7.7 Fire and Pyrotechnics

Open flame, pyrotechnic effects, and flammable materials require fire marshal coordination and permit acquisition. NFPA 160 governs flame effects before audiences. Flame-retardant treatments shall be verified for all soft goods and scenic elements. Fire watch personnel may be required during performances.

7.8 Weather-Related Hazards

Outdoor performances and load-in/load-out operations expose personnel to weather hazards including lightning, extreme temperatures, high winds, and precipitation. Programs shall establish weather monitoring protocols and suspension criteria for outdoor activities. Lightning safety policies shall specify shelter locations and clearance-to-resume procedures. Heat illness prevention shall include hydration, rest breaks, and acclimatization for summer productions.

7.9 Vehicle and Transportation Hazards

Load-in and load-out operations involve truck traffic, loading dock hazards, and material handling equipment. Tour operations add vehicle operation and fatigue management concerns. Programs shall establish traffic control plans for loading dock areas, verify driver qualifications for institutional vehicles, and implement hours-of-service limits for travel to off-site performances.

7.10 Audience Management

Front-of-house operations present crowd management, evacuation, and emergency response challenges. Programs shall verify occupancy loads comply with NFPA 101, train house management staff in emergency procedures, and coordinate with venue management for large-attendance events. Immersive and site-specific productions require additional assessment of audience circulation and egress.

7.11 Chronic Health Exposures

Beyond acute injury hazards, theatrical work presents chronic health exposure risks that develop over time. Programs shall assess and control the following long-term exposure hazards:

1. Noise-induced hearing loss: Sound system operation, power tool use, and amplified rehearsals can exceed safe exposure limits. OSHA permissible exposure limit is 90 dBA TWA; hearing conservation programs are required above 85 dBA (29 CFR 1910.95).
2. Respiratory exposures: Wood dust, paint fumes, welding emissions, and adhesive vapors present inhalation hazards. OSHA wood dust PEL is 5 mg/m3 for hardwoods (29 CFR 1910.1000). Ventilation and respiratory protection may be required.
3. Chemical exposures: Paints, solvents, dyes, adhesives, and cleaning agents require hazard communication compliance. Safety Data Sheets shall be maintained and accessible. Skin sensitization and respiratory sensitization should be considered.
4. Ergonomic hazards: Repetitive motion, awkward postures, and manual material handling contribute to musculoskeletal disorders. Costume shop and scene shop operations require ergonomic assessment.
5. Fatigue and stress: Extended technical rehearsals, production schedules, and performance demands create fatigue-related risks. Work hour limits and rest break policies should be established.

7.12 Hazardous Materials and Poisoning Risks

Theatrical production involves numerous hazardous materials that present poisoning risks through ingestion, inhalation, or skin absorption. Scene shops use paints, stains, and finishes containing volatile organic compounds. Prop-making may involve resins, casting materials, and adhesives with toxic components. Costume shops use dyes, fabric treatments, and cleaning solvents. Programs shall maintain complete Safety Data Sheet libraries, provide appropriate PPE, ensure adequate ventilation, and train personnel in hazardous material handling. Eating and drinking shall be prohibited in work areas where hazardous materials are present.

8. Program Evaluation and Continuous Improvement

8.1 Evaluation Framework

Risk management programs shall undergo systematic evaluation to verify effectiveness and identify improvement opportunities. Evaluation activities include:

1. Production-level reviews: Post-production debriefs should address risk management effectiveness, near-miss incidents, control measure performance, and lessons learned.
2. Annual program audits: Comprehensive review of documentation, training records, inspection logs, and incident data. Compare performance against program objectives.
3. Regulatory compliance verification: Periodic assessment of compliance with OSHA, fire code, ADA, and other applicable requirements.
4. Incident trend analysis: Review incident and near-miss data to identify patterns, root causes, and systemic issues.
5. Benchmarking: Compare program practices and performance against peer institutions and industry standards.
6. External audits: Periodic third-party assessment provides objective evaluation and identifies blind spots.

8.2 Reporting Frequency and Mechanisms

Programs should establish reporting schedules appropriate to organizational needs. Recommended reporting frequencies include: immediate notification for serious incidents or extreme risks; weekly status reports during production periods; monthly summaries of inspections, training, and corrective actions; quarterly reports to department leadership on program metrics; and annual comprehensive reports to administration. Reporting mechanisms may include written reports, electronic dashboards, committee meetings, email notifications, and verbal briefings. The format and frequency should match the audience and decision-making needs.

8.3 Key Performance Indicators

Programs should track both leading and lagging indicators. Lagging indicators measure outcomes: incident frequency, severity rates, workers’ compensation costs, and regulatory citations. Leading indicators measure prevention activities: training completion rates, inspection compliance, hazard correction timeliness, near-miss reporting rates, and risk assessment completion. Leading indicators provide early warning of program weaknesses before incidents occur.

8.4 Corrective Action Tracking

Programs shall maintain systems for tracking corrective actions from initial identification through verification of completion. Corrective actions arise from inspections, incident investigations, audits, and risk assessments. Each corrective action should document: the hazard or deficiency identified, the responsible party, the target completion date, the action taken, and verification that the action effectively addressed the issue. Overdue corrective actions should be escalated to appropriate management levels.

9. Implementation Guidance

9.1 Getting Started

Theater programs without existing risk management frameworks should implement this system incrementally:

1. Conduct baseline assessment: Document current conditions in all production and shop spaces. Identify immediate hazards requiring correction.
2. Establish documentation system: Create standardized forms for risk assessments, incident reports, and training records.
3. Train key personnel: Ensure at least one faculty member receives formal risk management training.
4. Integrate with production process: Add risk assessment as a required element of production meetings and design presentations.
5. Develop risk library: Compile hazard information, control measures, and incident data to inform future assessments.
6. Implement automation tools: Consider software solutions for tracking inspections, training records, and incident reports.
7. Establish review cycle: Schedule annual program evaluation and post-production reviews.

9.2 Student Training Requirements

All students participating in theatrical production shall receive safety orientation before beginning work. Orientation shall include emergency procedures, personal protective equipment requirements, hazard reporting procedures, and activity-specific training for their assigned tasks. Training shall be documented and retained. Advanced training and competency verification should be required for high-hazard activities including fly system operation, power tool use, work at heights, and atmospheric effects operation.

9.3 Documentation and Records

Risk management records shall be retained for a minimum of five years or as required by institutional policy. Records include risk assessments, training documentation, equipment inspection logs, incident reports, and corrective action documentation. Records shall be accessible for review by administration, auditors, and regulatory agencies.

9.4 Near-Miss Reporting

Programs should establish a near-miss reporting system to capture incidents that did not result in injury but indicated potential for harm. Near-miss data provides leading indicators for risk management improvement. Reporting systems should be non-punitive to encourage participation. Analysis of near-miss trends should inform training priorities and control measure effectiveness.

9.5 Emergency Drills

Programs shall conduct regular emergency drills to verify preparedness. Fire evacuation drills should be conducted at least annually, with consideration for drills during technical rehearsals to test response under production conditions. Shelter-in-place and severe weather drills should be conducted where applicable. Medical emergency response should be practiced, including AED location awareness and first aid kit accessibility. Post-drill debriefs should identify improvement opportunities.

10. Appendices

Appendix A: Production Risk Assessment Form

Complete this form during pre-production for each theatrical production.

Production Title:
Assessment Date:
Assessor Name/Title:
Performance Dates:
Venue:

Hazard Identification Checklist

Hazard Category	Present?	Risk Level
Work at heights (platforms, ladders, fly gallery)	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Rigging and suspended loads	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Electrical systems and temporary wiring	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Scene shop power tool operations	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Atmospheric effects (fog, haze, smoke)	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Theatrical weapons or stage combat	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Fire or pyrotechnic effects	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Performer physical demands (lifts, falls, stunts)	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Hazardous materials (paints, solvents, adhesives)	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Chronic exposures (noise, dust, ergonomic)	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Weather exposure (outdoor performances)	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Vehicle/transportation operations	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Audience management/crowd control	☐ Yes  ☐ No
Other (specify):	☐ Yes  ☐ No

Risk Control Documentation

Hazard	Control Measure	Responsible Party	Completion Date

Assessment Approval

Director/Instructor Signature:
Department Head Approval (if High/Extreme risks):
Date:

Appendix B: Industry Resources

Professional Organizations

The following organizations provide standards, training, and resources for theatrical safety:

1. ESTA (Entertainment Services and Technology Association): Develops ANSI E1 series standards for entertainment technology. www.esta.org
2. USITT (United States Institute for Theatre Technology): Professional association for design and technology. Provides training and resources. www.usitt.org
3. PLASA (Professional Lighting and Sound Association): International trade association for entertainment technology. www.plasa.org
4. IATSE (International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees): Labor union representing entertainment technicians. Provides training programs. www.iatse.net
5. ABTT (Association of British Theatre Technicians): UK-based organization with technical resources and codes of practice. www.abtt.org.uk
6. ASSP (American Society of Safety Professionals): Develops safety standards and provides professional development. www.assp.org
7. NFPA (National Fire Protection Association): Develops fire and life safety codes. www.nfpa.org
8. EdTA (Educational Theatre Association): Supports theatre education programs. www.schooltheatre.org
9. IAVM (International Association of Venue Managers): Supports venue management professionals. www.iavm.org
10. Event Safety Alliance: Promotes event safety through education and advocacy. www.eventsafetyalliance.org

Incident Data Sources

The following sources provide incident data useful for risk assessment and program development:

1. State and local Fire Marshal offices
2. State Departments of Occupational Safety and Health
3. OSHA regional offices and enforcement data
4. U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics
5. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
6. Insurance brokers and carriers (loss run reports)
7. National Fire Protection Association fire investigation reports
8. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
9. State Departments of Education incident reporting systems

Key Standards

Programs should maintain current copies of the following standards for reference:

Standard	Subject
ANSI E1.4	Manual Counterweight Rigging Systems
ANSI E1.6-1	Powered Hoist Systems
ANSI E1.21	Temporary Ground-Supported Structures
ANSI E1.46	Recommended Guidelines for Entertainment Rigging System Inspections
ANSI E1.47	Entertainment Industry Fall Protection and Fall Arrest
ANSI E1.5	Theatrical Fog Made with Aqueous Solutions of Di- and Trihydric Alcohols
ANSI E1.23	Design and Execution of Performer Flying Systems

Appendix C: Venue and Activity Types

The risk management principles in this framework apply to the following venue types and entertainment activities. While this document focuses on educational theater, organizations in any of these sectors may adapt the framework to their operational context.

Performance Venues	Production Facilities
Theater facilities Concert halls and arenas Performing arts centers Fine arts centers Civic centers Convention centers Stadium and arena venues Amphitheaters Houses of worship Showrooms and casinos Night clubs Cruise ship theaters Theater in the round	Television studios Motion picture studios Film production shops Radio studios Sound recording studios Film laboratories Scene shops Costume shops Props fabrication Rental houses Production warehouses

Live Performance	Special Events
Theater productions Dance and ballet Opera performances Symphony and orchestra Concerts (indoor and outdoor) Circus performances Magic and illusion shows Puppet shows Repertory company productions Community and amateur theater Educational theater (all levels) Fringe and experimental theater Street theater	Parades Fairs and carnivals Rodeos Theme park attractions Water parks Amusement park rides Swim shows and productions Outdoor drama Stadium halftime shows Corporate events Trade show presentations Mall productions Armed services programs

11. References

American National Standards Institute. (2018). ANSI essential requirements: Due process requirements for American National Standards. ANSI.
https://www.ansi.org/american-national-standards/ans-essentials

American National Standards Institute/American Society of Safety Professionals. (2021). ANSI/ASSP Z590.3-2021: Prevention through design guidelines for addressing occupational hazards and risks in design and redesign processes. ASSP.
https://www.assp.org/standards/standards-topics/standards-z590

Entertainment Services and Technology Association. (2019). ANSI E1.6-1: Entertainment technology – Powered hoist systems. ESTA.
https://tsp.esta.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.php

Entertainment Services and Technology Association. (2020). ANSI E1.46: Entertainment technology – Recommended guidelines for entertainment rigging system inspections. ESTA.
https://tsp.esta.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.php

Entertainment Services and Technology Association. (2022). ANSI E1.47: Entertainment technology – Entertainment industry fall protection and fall arrest. ESTA.
https://tsp.esta.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.php

International Organization for Standardization. (2018). ISO 31000:2018 Risk management – Guidelines. ISO.
https://www.iso.org/standard/65694.html

International Organization for Standardization. (2018). ISO 45001:2018 Occupational health and safety management systems – Requirements with guidance for use. ISO.
https://www.iso.org/standard/63787.html

National Fire Protection Association. (2023). NFPA 70: National Electrical Code. NFPA.
https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=70

National Fire Protection Association. (2024). NFPA 101: Life Safety Code. NFPA.
https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=101

National Fire Protection Association. (2022). NFPA 102: Standard for grandstands, folding and telescopic seating, tents, and membrane structures. NFPA.
https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=102

National Fire Protection Association. (2021). NFPA 160: Standard for the use of flame effects before an audience. NFPA.
https://www.nfpa.org/codes-and-standards/all-codes-and-standards/list-of-codes-and-standards/detail?code=160

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. (2023). Hierarchy of controls. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/hierarchy/

National Safety Council. (2023). Work injury costs.
https://injuryfacts.nsc.org/work/costs/work-injury-costs/

Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (n.d.). 29 CFR 1910: Occupational safety and health standards. U.S. Department of Labor.
https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1910

Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (n.d.). 29 CFR 1926: Safety and health regulations for construction. U.S. Department of Labor.
https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1926

U.S. Access Board. (2010). 2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design. U.S. Department of Justice.
https://www.access-board.gov/ada/

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