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How Often Should School Curtains and Rigging Systems Be Inspected?
Theatre Curtains should be inspected annually as part of the inspection of the theatre rigging system. Every five years they should be tested for flame resistance and a new certification label should be sewn onto the curtain.
At year 5 and 10 is a good time to have the curtains cleaned; and they will be tested and recertified at that time during the cleaning process.
At year 15 it's likely time to retire the curtain due to normal wear and tear. Rather than clean the curtain it's best to replace it at this time.
Ensuring the safety and longevity of school stage curtains and rigging systems requires regular inspections and maintenance in compliance with national safety standards. Schools often overlook these critical components, but failure to conduct routine inspections can result in dangerous conditions that put students, staff, and performers at risk. This article outlines the recommended inspection frequencies based on NFPA codes, ANSI standards, and best industry practices.
NFPA and ANSI Standards for Stage Rigging Inspections
The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) provide clear guidelines on how often stage equipment should be inspected. NFPA 101, the Life Safety Code, and NFPA 80, which covers fire safety requirements for curtains and draperies, both emphasize the importance of regular maintenance and inspection to ensure continued compliance and fire protection (NFPA, 2021).
Additionally, ANSI E1.4-2014 (Entertainment Technology – Manual Counterweight Rigging Systems) and ANSI E1.6-2-2018 (Entertainment Technology – Design, Inspection, and Maintenance of Stage Machinery) specify that stage rigging systems should undergo annual inspections by a qualified professional (ANSI, 2018). The Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA) also reinforces this standard, advocating for yearly inspections to identify wear, mechanical failure, or safety hazards.
Recommended Inspection Frequency
Annual Inspections by a Qualified Inspector
NFPA 101 and ANSI E1.4 recommend that all rigging and fire-rated curtains undergo a comprehensive inspection at least once per year.
These inspections should be conducted by an ETCP Certified Rigger or other industry-qualified professionals to ensure compliance with industry standards.
Monthly Visual Inspections
Schools should implement monthly in-house visual inspections conducted by trained staff members. This includes checking for visible damage, frayed cables, improperly hung curtains, and obstructions in the rigging system.
After Any Major Event or Renovation
Whenever a system undergoes modifications, is relocated, or experiences excessive use during a production, an additional inspection should be scheduled to ensure all components are functioning properly.
Fire Retardancy Testing Every Five Years
NFPA 701 states that stage curtains should be tested for flame resistance every five years or as required by local fire codes (NFPA, 2021). Some jurisdictions require more frequent testing, so school administrators should verify local compliance requirements.
Curtains should be tested for flame resistance at years 5, 10, and 15 to ensure continued compliance with NFPA 701. However, by year 15, most stage curtains will show significant wear and tear due to prolonged exposure to heat, dust, and humidity. Rather than investing in cleaning and re-treating aging curtains, replacing them at this point is often the most cost-effective solution to maintain safety and aesthetics in a typical theater setting.
The cost of professionally cleaning and re-treating curtains for flame resistance can be as much as 40% of the cost of replacing the curtains entirely. Given the diminishing structural integrity and appearance of older curtains, schools and theaters are often better served by budgeting for full curtain replacement at the 15-year mark instead of continually investing in costly maintenance that offers diminishing returns.
Why Regular Inspections Are Critical
Failing to inspect and maintain school stage equipment can lead to:
Mechanical failures, such as counterweight system imbalances or frayed lift lines, which pose serious safety hazards.
Fire hazards, as stage curtains must maintain their flame-retardant properties.
Legal liability, as schools may be held responsible for injuries caused by negligence in maintaining rigging and curtains.
Costly repairs, since small issues left unaddressed can escalate into major system failures requiring expensive replacements.
Implementing an Inspection Program
To maintain compliance and safety, schools should establish a formal inspection schedule that includes:
Partnering with a qualified rigging inspector (such as an ETCP Certified Rigger or a State-Certified Safety Consultant).
Keeping detailed inspection records, documenting all findings, repairs, and compliance with ANSI and NFPA standards.
Training theater staff in basic rigging safety and hazard recognition.
Developing an emergency plan in case of mechanical failure or safety concerns.
By following NFPA and ANSI guidelines, schools can ensure that their stage curtains and rigging systems remain in safe, functional condition, reducing risks and prolonging the lifespan of these essential systems.
References
American National Standards Institute (ANSI). (2018). E1.6-2-2018: Entertainment Technology – Design, Inspection, and Maintenance of Stage Machinery.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). (2021). NFPA 101: Life Safety Code.
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). (2021). NFPA 701: Standard Methods of Fire Tests for Flame Propagation of Textiles and Films.