Rigging in small schools

[Don Allen]

In the document they call them step platforms (page 41)

 

This is a link to platform ladders http://www.blythenterprises.com.au/stockmaster.htm they have a working platform that you stand on so you have good balance which leaves both hands free to work.

 

The platform ladder has 4 caster wheels that are spring loaded so they allow the platform ladder to be wheeled around when no one is on it and when you start climbing up the ladder part and while you are on the platform, the springs allow the platform ladder to lower onto it's legs which stop it moving. It has handrails on the ladder and platform.

 

Although Large A frame ladders have always been safer than extension ladders for small stage use, they do not appear in the document with any endorsement.

[trotboy]

The platforms above are designed for warehouses - they won't be tall enough for most School Halls.

 

Problem with H&S and access in Schools is differing Policy by LEA's and Local Authorities. Some say no ladders, some say ladders OK but with training, etc. Problem is not with H&S Policy per-se, but generally relates to Insurance. Access Towers can often be hired cheap, but can be just as dangerous IMO, if not more dangerous, than Zarges

[steve1159]

The platforms above are designed for warehouses - they won't be tall enough for most School Halls.

 

I do quite a lot of work in different schools and indeed one school has a set of these. FOH bar is at approx 4.5m and the platform is at about 3m which is an ideal height to stand on for a 4.5m bar. They work well and are in many ways an ideal solution for schools. At that sort of size that is fine for most school halls. The downside of these is the footprint is fairly large and so the school needs the space to store them and they are difficult to work around a set to focus. They are also not much good for companies as they don't collapse down. But as a portable safe means of access within a school they are fine.