[SML] Teaching technical theater and OSHA

[Ford Sellers]

Hi Kate and Jim,
I think you could look at the syllabus of virtually any lighting practicum from any college, and there would be references to how to hang/focus fixtures.
In terms of using facility tools, lifts, and ladders... it may be that the new Dir of Facilities is trying to protect their gear from use/abuse, and loss.  It has been my (somewhat limited) experience that the department (usually the scene shop) owns, and is responsible for these items/tools, and their upkeep, along with the proper training for their use.  Then, these tools can be borrowed by the facilities department, as required... not the other way around.

-HTH,
-Ford

-----Original Message-----
From: Stagecraft <stagecraft-bounces at theatrical.net> On Behalf Of Dougherty, Jim via Stagecraft
Sent: Monday, September 9, 2019 1:19 PM
To: stagecraft at theatrical.net
Cc: Dougherty, Jim <jdougher at middlebury.edu>; Kate Caffrey <mcaffrey1 at framingham.edu>
Subject: [SML] Teaching technical theater and OSHA

>From a colleague, Kate Caffrey, working at Framingham State University in MA:

"We are trying to grow our Theatre concentration at Framingham State.  A new director of facilities has been hired and she refuses to let students and faculty use lifts, tools, etc. to build sets, hang lights, etc.  She also refuses to let any professionals we hire from the outside use any of Framingham State's equipment/tools do these duties. She claims they must bring their own tools, lifts, etc.  She says that she is abiding by OSHA's rules.
 
I have worked in theatre professionally and in Higher Ed for a number of years and have never run into anything like this.  I am now in a position where I need to find "proof" that other schools teach skills to students - allowing them to hang/focus lights, build sets, etc.
 
I am wondering if you could send me something brief that explains how Colleges/Universities/Community Colleges across the country (the world?) are allowed to teach students these hands on skills and remain OSHA compliant?"

If anyone has supporting experience or evidence to help out, please contact Kate directly at mcaffrey1 at framingham.edu.

Thanks,

Jim Dougherty
Middlebury College Theatre Dept



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