2023 - 2024 THEATRE HANDBOOK

GENERAL SHOP SAFETY PRACTICES
1. Report to work in attire suitable for the job:
a. Closed toe shoes with hard soles. No sandals or clogs.
b. Clothes that can get dirty
c. Durable fabrics
d. Clothes that provide freedom of movement.
2. Long hair should be tied back securely or confined with a cap or scarf. Loose hair obstructs vision and can get
caught in power tools.
3. Wear safety equipment provided.
4. Know where the first aid supplies are kept and report any injury, regardless of how minor, to the person in charge.
5. Be aware of your surroundings and what others are doing.
a. Leave people sufficient room to accomplish their task.
b. Be careful when walking through an area where others are working as they may not be able to see or hear
you.
c. Be aware of nails, screws, tools, etc. on the floor, sticking out of boards, or in other locations they should
not be.
d. Clean up after yourself. Scrap materials, even sawdust, can be hazardous, and they can add to the clutter
of shop activity.
6. If you see a situation that does not appear safe, report it. It is easier to prevent accidents than to repair them.
7. Request and get instructions about operating power equipment before attempting to use them then exercise
caution.
a. Check each tool before using it. If repairs or conditioning is necessary, seek the assistance of the person
in charge. Dull tools are more hazardous than sharp ones.
b. Use tools for the purpose for which they were designed.
c. Cutting tools should be laid aside so their sharp edges do not rest on the floor or other hard surfaces.
d. When a tool is no longer needed, return it to the tool room. Tools must not be left scattered about the
shop.
8. Always be alert for hazards and materials that might cause a fire. This applies particularly to highly combustible
materials and fumes. These items should always be stored in one of the flammables cabinets in the scene shop.
a. Rags used to wipe away oil and oil-based paints must be disposed of in a closed metal container to prevent
spontaneous combustion.
b. Smoking is not allowed anywhere in the theatre building.
c. Note the location of fire extinguishers.