What are the best practices for managing the risk of injury during high-risk performances?

1 Assess the risks

Prior to any high-risk performance, you must identify and evaluate the potential hazards and risks involved. To do this, you must conduct a comprehensive risk assessment that takes into account the type and level of difficulty of the performance, the skills and experience of the performers and technicians, the equipment and materials required, the venue and environmental conditions, as well as the emergency procedures and contingency plans. A risk assessment will help you determine the probability and intensity of any harm that could occur, as well as what measures need to be taken in order to avoid or reduce it.

2 Train and rehearse

One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of injury during high-risk performances is to ensure that everyone involved is properly trained and rehearsed. This means providing adequate and appropriate training for the performers and technicians on how to use the equipment, follow the choreography, and communicate with each other. It also means scheduling enough time for rehearsals, both in isolation and in integration with other elements of the production, such as lighting, sound, and props. Rehearsals will help you test and refine the performance, identify and resolve any issues, and build confidence and trust among the team.

3 Inspect and maintain

Another key factor in ensuring the safety of high-risk performances is to inspect and maintain the equipment and materials used. This means checking the condition and functionality of the equipment, such as ropes, harnesses, wires, rigs, or fire extinguishers, before and after each use. It also means replacing or repairing any damaged or worn-out parts, and following the manufacturer's instructions and recommendations. Additionally, it means storing and handling the equipment and materials safely and securely, and disposing of any hazardous waste properly.

4 Monitor and communicate

During the high-risk performance, it is essential to monitor and communicate the situation and any changes or problems that may arise. This means assigning a qualified and experienced person to oversee and coordinate the performance, such as a stage manager, a stunt coordinator, or a fire marshal. It also means establishing clear and reliable channels of communication among the performers, technicians, and supervisors, such as radios, headsets, or hand signals. Furthermore, it means being ready to stop or modify the performance if necessary, and having a backup plan in case of an emergency.

5 Review and improve

After the high-risk performance, it is important to review and improve the process and the outcome. This means collecting and analyzing feedback from the performers, technicians, supervisors, and audience on how the performance went, what worked well, and what could be improved. It also means documenting and reporting any incidents or injuries that occurred, and implementing any corrective or preventive actions. Additionally, it means celebrating and acknowledging the achievements and contributions of the team, and learning from the experience.

High-risk performances can be rewarding and exciting, but they also require careful planning and preparation, constant vigilance and communication, and ongoing evaluation and improvement. By following these best practices, you can manage the risk of injury during high-risk performances and deliver a safe and spectacular show.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?