SYRACUSE, NY – You might be able to rely on your mom for a lot of things, but she's probably not going to remind you that it's time to have your rigging inspected. For those who need a reminder, J. R. Clancy automated rigging systems now come with yellow indicator lights that flash when it's time for an inspection. As J. R. Clancy notes, it may seem like a nuisance, and it can be hard to remember to call the inspector. But annual inspections are critical to the safe operation of a stage rigging system – and important, too, since stage rigging is one of the few forms of rigging that actually lifts weight over people standing below it.
It's critically important that a theatre's equipment be maintained in top working order-and the managers in charge are the ones with the responsibility of making sure the people on stage are safe.
The flashing yellow service lights are built into all control stations for J. R. Clancy's automated rigging products, including standard and custom control stations and SceneControl consoles.
As J. R. Clancy notes, inspections are more than a good idea. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that "a thorough, annual inspection of the hoisting machinery shall be made by a competent person, or by a government or private agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Labor. The employer shall maintain a record of the dates and results of inspections for each hoisting machine and piece of equipment." (OSHA 1926.550(a)(6)).
The American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards include the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) standard B30.16 for Overhead Hoists (Underhung), which requires inspection of hoists at least once a year.
Additionally, some state laws require periodic visual and building condition surveys as part of a risk reduction program.
J. R. Clancy notes that, when the service light comes on, managers should call (800) 836-1885 and the company will recommend an ETCP-certified inspector in their area.
For more information, please visit www.jrclancy.com.
