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....a view
The recent fatalities on the build for the Madonna show in Marseilles and the less reported stage collapse in June on a Monsters of Rock show in Russia both raise issues about safe practices.
It is undeniably a good thing to make the production of pop shows and other events as safe as possible both for the workers and for the public and the industry has been transformed in this respect over the last 20 years. I know that many would say that there is a long way still to go; In no way am I advocating lowering of safety standards but if they are set unrealistically there is a tendency to ignore them altogether
my points are;
1 Regulation and guidelines are all very well but must be implemented and adhered to. Standards vary from country to country due to availability of skilled local labour and general disregard for rules. I know from personal experience that in some countries pratices which are patently unsafe are the norm. In Russia the stage collapsed due to weight of equipment on it!
2 Standards need to be realistically enforceable with the resources available.
3 They also need to be economically viable relative to the nature of the event. Otherwise again there will be a tendency to ignore them if it costs too much not to do so.
4 Education and training of everyone involved in production of live events is essential. A basic knowledge of electrical and other safety both for musicians and support staff
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showing you have looked at all problems and possibilities can help
Health and Safety Management in the Live Music and Events Industry (Paperback).