Oh, where to start regarding qualifications and associations

[SparkyMarc]

Hi there,

 

Thanks to a previous unrelated software engineering job, I've found myself thrown in to indoor and outdoor stage rigging and lighting. So far, it's been all sweetness and light, but things are growing, and it's now time to get those qualifications and certifications that are a must have.

 

Coming from outside the industry, I'm completely in the dark as to what qualis/certs are required to be covered Health & Safety wise. I'm not even sure what organisations/associations to look for. There is no one above me to ask, I really am a total outsider (as yet :) ).

 

The work I'll be doing will be building up and taking down of a mobile stage, all of it's rigging/trussing, and control of all of the lighting.

 

If anyone can offer any assistance, or pointers, that would be most gratefully received.

 

Many thanks,

SparkyMarc

[kerry davies]

Welcpme Marc;

You say that it is a mobile stage so I assume predominantly outdoor events? As a PSA member I am obviously going to mention them first but websites to check are:

http://www.psa.org.uk/ http://www.noea.org.uk/ http://www.tesa.org.uk/

 

H&S wise I am also going to mention the Live Events safety passport scheme because I am a tutor but other trainers and more info is at; http://www.psa.org.uk/about-us-safety-passports_intro.asp

 

There are specialist safety firms like TESS, Capita, Safety First Solutions, Sygma, Stagesafe etc. etc if further H&S specialities are needed. See NOEA and PSA members directories for contact details and training.

 

Andy Cotton has an article in the Main Event mag: http://blogs.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseact...logId=535350996 with which I agree. He argues the case that no amount of "paper" knowledge can be of use without real-world experience.

 

If you had filled in your profile I would know a bit more about your present knowledge-base but I assume from your tag that you have some electrical qualifications which gives you a good H&S start. In my personal opinion you will not need NEBOSH type certificates/diplomas yet. As a beginner you will probably need some more basic experience before deciding which route to take.

 

Good luck, it is good to see someone thinking before diving headlong, for once.