I can’t recommend enough any of the ESA crowd
safety classes. I attended the one in September hosted at
Furman University with Eric Stuart and it changed my perspective on so many things. As I stated on my Facebook
page, why would a rigger take the course? So I can work better with the other members of the event team. Understanding what the crowd manager is trying to accomplish helps me do my job better. AND I now know what to look for for my own personal
safety too!
^^^ THIS.
Years ago when it was more common for
venue (especially clubs) to chain ,
barricade or otherwise
block emergency exits to prevent unpaid intruders, I made a
point of finding the exits closest to
FOH and walk the routes, ascertain if the doors actually opened, and what was on the other side. Think of fire or active shooter situations...
And a reminder that ALL OF US need a company,
venue, and personal emergency action plan, including rally
point and off-site contact, cellphone and other contact info for every worker,
etc. When I'm a
call steward for my
IATSE Local, I carry the most recent copy of the worker list. If we have an emergency and I can't locate a
stagehand I have a way to attempt contact. If I can't locate workers I notify the
AHJ of how many, where they were likely working, and give a physical/clothing description if I can.
Remember: nobody should die for a good time.