Theater Venue Safety and Pre-Performance Inspection Checklist

Theater venues have complex technical systems including fly towers, counterweight systems, and theatrical lighting that require specialized safety inspection before each performance. This checklist covers all critical theater safety elements.

Industry: Events & Entertainment
Frequency: Per Performance
Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes
Role: Technical Director / Stage Manager
Total Items: 27

Fly System Safety

Inspect fly system and counterweight system safety.

Fly system annual inspection current and in file?
All linesets properly counterweighted with no overloads?
All hemp ropes and manila lines free of fraying and deterioration?
Wire rope (lift lines) free of broken wires and corrosion?
Locking rail locks functional on all linesets?

Lighting and Overhead Grid

Inspect lighting grid and overhead elements.

All lighting fixtures secured with safety cables?
No unsecured items on grid or catwalks?
Lighting dimmer system tested and no circuit failures?
Catwalk and grid access ladders secure and handrails in place?
Moving lights homed and tested without issues?

Stage Safety

Inspect stage for performance safety.

Stage deck in good condition with no damaged or loose boards?
Stage edge clearly marked for performers (luminescent spike tape)?
Trap doors secured when not in use or opened by trained crew only?
All set pieces and scenery stable and flight-checked?
Flying or aerial performer clearances verified?

Fire and Special Effects

Verify fire and special effects safety.

Pyrotechnic or open flame permit from fire marshal obtained?
Sprinkler heads not blocked by fly system or set pieces?
Smoke machine and haze use coordinated with smoke detection system?
Fire safety curtain operable and tested?

House and Audience Safety

Inspect audience house for safety.

All audience seats stable and safe?
All house exits clear and exit signs illuminated?
Emergency lighting functional in house and lobby?
Aisle guide lights functional in darkened house?

Pre-Show Safety Procedures

Conduct pre-show safety procedures.

Crew pre-show safety briefing conducted?
Stage manager communication with all departments tested?
Audience warned of strobe, haze, or other effects per accessibility requirements?
Running order and cue sheet distributed to all technical team?

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Why Use This Theater Venue Safety and Pre-Performance Inspection Checklist?

This theater venue safety and pre-performance inspection checklist helps events & entertainment teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for technical director / stage manager professionals, this checklist covers 27 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Theater Venue Safety and Pre-Performance Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 27 inspection items across 6 sections: Fly System Safety, Lighting and Overhead Grid, Stage Safety, Fire and Special Effects, House and Audience Safety, Pre-Show Safety Procedures. It is designed for events & entertainment operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per performance. Each completion takes approximately 45-60 minutes.

Who should use this Theater Venue Safety and Pre-Performance Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Technical Director / Stage Manager professionals in the events & entertainment industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.