First things first

[kwotipka]

Always consider the state of things before you start. For example rechargeable items. Now, I don't want to start a flame war about using rechargeable batteries in things like wireless mics. This is about other items.

I see the set department cussing on a regular basis because the last person to use the cordless drill didn't recharge the battery. Wireless intercom sets are often victim because they are usually a low priority item. Then when they are set up 30 minutes before rehearsal they are dead.

Think about EVERYTHING that needs to be charged up and unload and set these things up first. Pack in the truck last so they are easy to get to.

Here is an example of a manlift that ran out of juice in the middle of a high dollar resort and had to sit there while the battery charged enough to move it a few more feet. It was amazing that no matter how much the house manager yelled, the battery did not charge any faster.

 

[len]

Strange about the lift. Usually, you can plug them in and they'll be drivable even if the battery is dead. I've even be able to push them before.

But you're right. Anything battery powered should be the last thing on the truck, and the first to get plugged in. I usually manage to get them right on top of the motor cases, and marked with red and yellow tape so everyone knows they are a priority.

I was on a show with 3 rented lifts once. Two of them were broken when delivered (would move, but wouldn't raise). It took 4 - 5 hours to get replacements for them, which put everyone on edge and behind schedule. Fortunately, it wasn't my show. If I were signing the checks the rental company wouldn't have gotten paid for that.

 

[Stoldal]

My favortire time that deals with rechargeable equiment was a few years ago.

My TD, is was a small tech crew, like 5 people, was hanging light using a lift, he was about 40' up and the power to the lift died out, and lets just say that my TD was suck up there for about 30mins, so we could recharge the batteries.

After that we got a new lift and now we never leave the theatre with out checking to make sure the lift is pluged in.

 

[soundlight]

It must've not been a vertical manlift (aka genie lift) then, because those almost always have a manual pressure release knob to let the lift down slowly in the event of a dead battery.

 

[avkid]

It must've not been a vertical manlift (aka genie lift) then, because those almost always have a manual pressure release knob to let the lift down slowly in the event of a dead battery.

I believe that is a newer regulation.

 

[Stoldal]

Ya the lift that we had was a older one and did not have a manual pressure release knob, and after that one problem we know we had to get a new one. Now i look back and feel stupid for using it.