Rigging is the skeleton of a production, so it must remain in top shape to keep your crew, performers and audience members safe. Regular stage rigging maintenance can improve the lifespan of your equipment, reduce the risk of costly repairs and keep your operations in compliance with industry regulations.
Schedule Regular Inspections
A thorough theatre rigging inspection goes beyond a visual assessment. You must complete a multi-step process to review, correct and implement necessary updates and repairs. You can complete your own maintenance inspections, but it’s also important to consult experts for comprehensive evaluations.
Establish a consistent stage rigging maintenance schedule based on your equipment usage and manufacturer guidelines. If your rigging equipment is used extensively under heavy duress, it’s a good habit to inspect it daily. Less frequently used theatre equipment may only require a weekly or monthly check.
Your assessment should include:
- Arbors
- Blocks and pulleys
- Lines
- Rope locks
- Hooks
- Anchor points
- Counterweights
- Emergency and safety systems
- Winches and motorized hoists
Learn to Spot Signs of Wear
Knowing what to look for while you’re conducting maintenance for stage rigging can help you identify potential issues before they become bigger problems.
The following are common signs of wear in different types of theatre rigging equipment:
Ropes and cables: Fraying fibers and unwound strands pose a safety risk for rope lines. Metal cables may unwind (also known as birdcaging) and can develop rust and corrosion.
Pulleys: The grooves in pulleys sustain wear after extensive use, which can result in improper line tracking. Pulleys may also become misaligned resulting in noisy or rough operation.
Battens: The horizontal support beams used for lighting and scenery can become bent or deformed. They can also crack, affecting load distribution. Check connection points for rust and corrosion.
Counterweights: Bent frames, shifting weights and rust affect the stability of counterweight and arbor systems.
Rope locks: Slack in rigging lines may indicate loose rope locks that require adjustment or replacement. Locks and brakes can also wear out over time, especially if your rigging system requires excessive force.
Motorized hoists: Testing all moving parts of your stage rigging will help you determine if there are any issues in the system. Grinding or whining sounds may suggest there’s a problem with the winches, gears or other internal parts. Look out for oil and grease leaks, too.
Lubricate and Clean Regularly
Keeping your rigging system clean and lubricated ensures smooth operation during visual transitions. Clean dirt and debris off lines, hinges and joints with soft brushes and mild detergents. You may need to use rust remover on metal components, too.
Consult your manufacturer’s guide for the best lubricant for your stage rigging. Be careful not to over-lubricate your equipment as that can actually attract dirt and dust, resulting in buildup and premature wear.
Keep a Detailed Maintenance Log
Recording stage rigging maintenance and inspections allows you to monitor changes over time. That can help you identify patterns of issues and address the underlying cause of your rigging troubles.
It’s also important to keep detailed records of all inspection and maintenance services for documentation and auditing purposes. Record-keeping is essential for compliance with safety regulations and maintaining accountability in the event of a failure.
Implement Ongoing Training
Review inspection, maintenance and lubrication protocols with your crew monthly or quarterly to ensure they’re up to date on best practices. Doing so reduces the risk of error, protects your equipment and keeps your team safe.
Discuss early problem detection and teach your staff how to spot and report signs of potential issues. Practicing routine inspections during theatre rigging maintenance also allows them to troubleshoot issues before performances and events.
Ensure your team has access to digital and print resources, manuals, checklists and tools to help them familiarize themselves with your equipment. Conduct periodic skills assessments to identify techniques that may require improvement or further education.
Rigging Safety Inspects from Tiffin Scenic Studios
Tiffin Scenic Studios specializes in theatre, area and sports complex rigging inspections. Our expert staff will work closely with you to assess your equipment, identify potential issues and provide solutions to ensure safety and efficiency. Contact us to learn more about our theatre rigging, custom design and installation services.
