The Event Safety Podcast (Event Safety Alliance)

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and special guest co-host Kevin Kloesel welcome DTN Solution Engineer and Meteorologist Brad Nelson for a discussion about, as you guessed, weather, with a focus on extreme heat. They explore how heat has become the leading risk to live events, the lasting impacts of heat illness, Wet Bulb Globe Temperature, OSHA's proposed heat rule, and why consulting a professional meteorologist is more important than ever.

Links: 

DTN

OSHA's Proposed Heat Rule

ANSI ES1.7-2001 Event Safety - Weather Preparedness

Virtual Weather Planning Workshop

What do you get when you mix a giant hill, thousands of students, and the last day of classes? A fantastic case study for The Event Safety Podcast! In this episode, Danielle and Steve are joined by Joseph Scaffido, Director of University Events at Cornell, for a look at the University's annual Slope Day event. From weather to crowds to infrastructure challenges, there's a lot to learn from this nearly 120-year-old gathering.

LINKS:

Slope Day (Cornell University)

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we welcome back ESA Board Member and ESA Canada Executive Director Janet Sellery for a conversation on assessing risk. Topics of discussion include organizing risks factors, benefits & shortcoming of various assessment models, prioritizing process over specific tools, and more. They also drop some info on several upcoming events and ESA’s new student membership program. Check it out!

Notes:

Triangle: The Fire That Changed America (Book)

The Checklist Manifesto (Book)

ESA Canada

What did YOU think of the 2023 Event Safety Summit? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we recap some highlights of this year's Summit with two attendees, Francesca Ghizzoni (Production Manager, SXSW) and Emily Jeu (Director of Production, Columbus Association for the Performing Arts). They share their views on what drove them to attend the Summit, why they believe it's important for event professionals to take part, what they found most compelling, and what they'd like to see at future events.

LINKS:

ANSI ES1.40 - 2023, Event Safety - Event Security

It may be cold outside, but the latest edition of The Event Safety Podcast is RED HOT. In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Kevin Kloesel for an update on what's happening in the event weather space. Discussion includes how planning for one risk can introduce new ones, the importance of deeply understanding your venue, emergency messaging, new lightning guidance, and boatloads (or should we say snow shovels full) more.

Link:

National Center for Spectator Sports Safety & Security (NCS4)

Grab your shovel! Bills mafia digs in with snow removal before high stakes Buffalo-K.C. playoff game (NBC News)

ANSI ES1.7 - 2021, Event Safety Requirements - Weather Preparedness

Safety professional. Firefighter. Helicopter pilot. And ESA Board Member! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we kick off a series of ESA Board of Directors profiles, beginning with that man of many hats, Kurt Miner. We discuss his path from working in the safety department at Universal Studios to his current role as a Managing Director at Alliance, how he became involved with ESA, the current state of safety at live events, and much more.

And...action! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we take a slight detour from the live events world to discuss safety in the film industry. Joining Danielle are two highly experienced film pros, Matt Sanders and Fess Shelton. They discuss the similarities and differences between safety in film and live events, the safety planning process, threats and mitigation strategies, roles and responsibilities, and the ongoing work of the "Safety for Sarah" campaign. 

Notes:

Safety for Sarah

It's a Powerpalooza! In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we get deep and nerdy on the subject of sustainable power in event applications with the team at Overdrive Energy Solutions. We discuss the safety benefits and challenges of portable battery technology, integrating it into your site plans, and their experience powering the guest package of a major artist at this year's Lollapalooza.

This episode is brought to you by Event Safety Alliance Canada

LINKS:

Overdrive Energy Solutions
Reverb
Billie Eilish, REVERB Partner Up To Deliver Solar-Powered Lollapalooza Set

Is taking an “at all costs” approach to our jobs something to be applauded? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Steve Adelman swings by to join Danielle for a conversation about a concerning story making the rounds on social media. They discuss why show stop calls should not be limited to crowd-related incidents, the balance between individual choice and leadership responsibility, and how one’s decision to “work through the pain” can affect everyone involved in an event.

Notes:

Tour Hero (Photo)

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle welcomes back ESA board member Bryan Huneycutt for a recap of this year's USITT Conference in Seattle. They discuss key takeaways from this year's event, presentation highlights, current safety & health commission initiatives, and more. 

Ahead of our first-ever Black Friday membership promotion, we’ve dropped a quick “mini-pod” to discuss why you should become a member of the ESA and what’s in store for 2023. Oh yeah, and Steve’s back!

Notes:

Membership Enrollment Page

There are many similarities between planning for event operations and emergency management. In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast Danielle and special guest host Doug Bruce (Creative Safety) explore these crossover points with two highly experienced, event-focused emergency managers we met at the Event Safety Alliance Canada Conference, Sherry Beard and Simon Hunt. They discuss a wide range of issues including planning, scalability, relationship building, leadership adaptability, and the importance of establishing trust. Enjoy!

In this edition of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve continue their conversation from last episode with a closer look at the concept of the normalization of deviance, including its origins, why it happens, and most importantly how to avoid it. They also revisit the idea of the “Swiss cheese model” of risk mitigation and lessons from John Barylick’s excellent book on the Station Nightclub fire Killer Show. 

Notes:

Killer Show

Swiss Cheese Model

The Normalization of Deviance

The Challenger Launch Decision

In our first episode, Danielle Hernandez (Furman University), Eric Colby (Metropolitan Opera House) and ESA Vice President Steve Adelman discuss a crowd panic situation at a recent performance of Hamilton in San Francisco, and what venue professionals can do to prevent and respond to similar situations.

In this episode, ESA President Jim Digby joins Janet Sellery (Sellery Health and Safety/ESA Canada), Ethan Gilson (Entertainment Rigging Services), and ESA Vice President Steve Adelman for a discussion on the coroner’s inquest into the 2012 Toronto stage roof collapse, the recent fatal fall on the Coachella event site, and the ESA’s evolving approach to safety advocacy in the face of continued losses.

In this episode, we look at internal and external options for reporting unsafe conditions or behaviors, as wellas the concept of an internal responsibility system. Featuring Dr. Donald Cooper (Event Safety Alliance), Janet Sellery (Sellery Health and Safety/ESA Canada), and Tim Roberts (The Event Safety Shop).

In this episode we look at the art and science of crowd safety with Eric Stuart, Director of Gentian Events, newly-appointed Chair of the UK Crowd Managers Association, and instructor of the ESA’s Crowd Safety Symposium.

In this episode we look at several aspects of severe weather planning, including the limitations of consumer weather apps, the importance of meteorological support, and when it’s ok to diverge from your carefully-developed weather action plans. Featuring Dr. Kevin Kloesel (University of Oklahoma), Dax Cochran (DTN WeatherOps), Jim Digby (Event Safety Alliance), and Steven Adelman (Event Safety Alliance).

In part two of our podcast series on severe weather planning we take a look at the history, components, and construction of severe weather trigger charts and how they factor into your overall safety plan. Featuring Dr. Kevin Kloesel (University of Oklahoma), Dax Cochran (DTN WeatherOps), Jim Digby (Event Safety Alliance), and Steven Adelman (Event Safety Alliance).

RESOURCES

Weather Decision Matrix Template (Download)

The Event Safety Guide (Purchase)

In this episode we look at the difficult and often confusing issue of accessibility and providing safe accommodation at live events. Featuring Nanette Odell (Disability Services Manager/ADA Coordinator, Talking Stick Resort Arena and Chase Field), Betty Siegel (Director of VSA & Accessibility, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts), Danielle Hernandez (Director, McAlister Auditorium at Furman University), and Eric Colby (Performance Manager, Metropolitan Opera House).

In this episode we continue our conversation on accessibility at live events by addressing several specific issues, including service animals, emergency procedures for those with mobility devices, and what you can legally ask of a guest requesting special assistance. Featuring Nanette Odell (Disability Services Manager/ADA Coordinator, Talking Stick Resort Arena and Chase Field), Betty Siegel (Director of VSA & Accessibility, John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts), Danielle Hernandez (Director, McAlister Auditorium at Furman University), and Eric Colby (Performance Manager, Metropolitan Opera House). Hosted by ESA Vice President Steven Adelman.

After a brief hiatus to prepare for the Event Safety Summit, the Event Safety Podcast is BACK! In this episode, we dive into the subject of safety training with a look at how people learn, how to gain buy-in, documentation, and more. Featuring Anna Glover (Yale School of Drama), Danielle Hernandez (Furman University) and Janet Sellery (Sellery Health and Safety).

What, if anything, can be done to make general admission shows safe for attendees? In our first-ever live taping of the Event Safety Podcast, ESA Vice President Steven Adelman discusses this issue with two leading voices in crowd safety planning, Emma Parkinson (Coventry University) and Eric Stuart (Gentian Events). Presented by Reel Media as part of the 2019 Event Safety Summit.

The headlines about major event cancellations are a poor guide for decisions about most events. This Event Safety Podcast will provide rational, factual information so you understand the force majeure language in your contracts, the scope of your event cancellation insurance coverage, and how to think through the risks and concerns even if you have an event coming up in the next few weeks. Featuring Steven Adelman (Adelman Law Group/Event Safety Alliance), Scott Carroll (Take1 Insurance), Jim Digby (Event Safety Alliance), and Janet Sellery (Sellery Health & Safety/ESA Canada)

In this episode, we share our first two “safety origin stories” from Bob Ross (Pyrotechnico) and Brian Osborne (Live! Technologies), recorded live at the 2019 Event Safety Summit. We also revisit the issue of event cancellation in response to COVID-19, with an update on the Event Safety Alliance Canada Conference and the landscape of challenges faced when you decide to postpone. Featuring Steven Adelman (Adelman Law Group/Event Safety Alliance), Danielle Hernandez (Furman University), and Janet Sellery (Sellery Health & Safety/ESA Canada).

In this special dispatch, we offer some ideas and resources to make productive use of the unexpected free time most of us are currently experiencing to ensure we’re primed and ready (personally and professionally) for when the wheels start turning again. Featuring Steven Adelman (Adelman Law Group/Event Safety Alliance), Anna Glover (Yale University) and Danielle Hernandez (Furman University).

Show Notes:

Podcasts

The Happiness Lab with Dr. Laurie Santos

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-happiness-lab-with-dr-laurie-santos/id1474245040?utm_medium=email&utm_source=other&utm_campaign=opencourse.rUHfSakHEeeQ3gpuC4Fs_g.announcements~opencourse.rUHfSakHEeeQ3gpuC4Fs_g.173LbfpNSPiYS-j17luW9A

The Tim Ferriss Show

https://tim.blog/podcast/

The Rich Roll Podcast

https://www.richroll.com/

The All Things Risk Podcast

http://www.allthingsrisk.co.uk/

How to learn something new

https://www.freecodecamp.org/news/here-are-380-ivy-league-courses-you-can-take-online-right-now-for-free-9b3ffcbd7b8c/

https://www.classcentral.com/help/moocs

One for the theatre pros (and theatre curious)! In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we go deep on the history, safe operation, and inspection of counterweight rigging systems. Featuring Rick Boychuk (Grid Well Inc), Ethan Gilson (Entertainment Rigging Services), and Danielle Hernandez (Furman University).

Show notes:

Nobody Looks Up: The History of the Counterweight Rigging System: 1500 to 1925 (Rick Boychuk)

ESTA Technical Standards Program

ANSI E1.4-1 - 2016: Entertainment Technology - Manual Counterweight Rigging Systems

In this episode, we address the issue of creating safe and harassment-free event spaces for attendees and workers. Areas of discussion include mitigation, policy development, securing buy-in from your team, and more. Featuring Virginia Schmitt (Friends of the LA River), Kim Warnick (Calling all Crows), Danielle Hernandez (Furman University), and Steven Adelman (Adelman Law Group/Event Safety Alliance). Special shout out to Virginia’s dog XXX for the well-timed snoring.

Note: Subject matter discussed in this episode may be sensitive to some listeners.

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we continue our discussion on theater rigging with a look at safe offloading, arbor design, motorized rigging, and more, Featuring Rick Boychuk (Grid Well Inc), Ethan Gilson (Entertainment Rigging Services), and Danielle Hernandez (Furman University).

In this special edition of the Event Safety Podcast, host Danielle Hernandez welcomes ESA President Jim Digby and Vice President Steven Adelman to provide an overview of the ESA's newly-released reopening guide.

What exactly is an Infection Mitigation Coordinator? Can you be held responsible if someone becomes infected with COVID-19 at your event? Does the size of your event REALLY matter? In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle Hernandez and Steven Adelman discuss the response thus far to the ESA’s reopening guidance, tackle a few reoccurring questions folks have had, and preview some upcoming supplements to the original document.

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we start our series on core safety practices with a look at risk assessment with Certified Safety Professional and “Beast of Safety” (per his Twitter handle) Ken Keberle. Hosted by Danielle Hernandez and Steven Adelman.

What is an ANSI Standard? How are they created? Why are they vital to the safety of our industry? In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we pose these questions and more to ESTA Executive Director Erin Grabe and Assistant Technical Standards Manager Richard Nix. Additionally, hosts Danielle Hernandez and Steven Adelman kick things off with an attempt to capture the zeitgeist of the current COVID-19 and socio-political reality and how it affects our industry’s reopening.

What do MacGyver, Buckminster Fuller, and Apollo 13 have in common? They all make an appearance in the latest episode of the Event Safety Podcast. In this episode, Danielle and Steve welcome back Certified Safety Professional Ken Keberle for a chat about learning, training, and resources for improving your safety knowledge.

Notes:

The Unthinkable: Who Survives When Disaster Strikes - And Why (Amanda Ripley)

The Checklist Manifesto: How to Get Things Right (Atul Gawande)

Killer Show: The Station Nightclub Fire, America’s Deadliest Rock Concert (John Barylick)

Defining the Wind: The Beaufort Scale and How a 19th-Century Admiral Turned Science into Poetry (Scott Huler)

I Seem to Be a Verb: Environment and Man's Future (Buckminster Fuller)

With most concerts and public fireworks displays on hold during COVID-19, the professional pyrotechnics industry is facing one of the most challenging times in its history. In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve explore the current state of pyro with Julie Heckman (American Pyrotechnics Association), Brian Panther (Pyrotek Special Effects), and Jim Souza (Pyro Spectaculars).

NOTES:

American Pyrotechnics Association

Pyrotek Special Effects

Pyro Spectaculars

Fireworks Industry Relief Petition

Behind The Scenes Charity Mental Health & Suicide Prevention Initiative

It’s finally here! In this episode, Gentian Event’s Eric Stuart joins Danielle and Steve for a discussion on the newly released ANSI ES1.9 - 2020 Crowd Management Standard. Learn the genesis of the standard, the development process, core components, how it should be utilized, and more.

New week, new episode of the Event Safety Podcast! In celebration of back to school season (at least during normal times), Steve and Danielle chat with stage manager, author, safety consultant, and all-around amazing human Kristi Ross-Clausen about bringing safety education to performing arts programs, including elementary schools, high schools, and colleges. Kristi is a walking encyclopedia of resources, so you’ll definitely want to catch this episode.

SHOW NOTES:

USITT Rigging Inspection Grant Program

USITT BACKstage test for High School Students:

National Federation of High School Associations (NFHS) Courses

NFHS Aerosol Study

Crowd Management ANSI Standard

Event Safety Podcast Episode 14: Counterweight Rigging Systems

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve welcome back University of Oklahoma Meteorologist and Certified Emergency Manager Dr. Kevin Kloesel for a discussion on severe weather planning during the pandemic. They explore considerations when deciding to move an “indoor” event outdoors, the importance of reexamining your sheltering capabilities, new challenges with evacuation and restoration, and more.

Brought to you by DTN WeatherOps

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, continue our series on safety origin stories, featuring contributions from three new additions to the ESA Board of Directors - Boxer Hardison (Bigger Hammer Production Services), Tami Richter (SXSW), and Danielle Hernandez (Furman University). We also give an early preview of what to expect with the 2020 “Virtual” Event Safety Summit and how you can get in on the action.

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve discuss stress and mental health awareness within our industry with Lori Rubinstein (Behind the Scenes Charity) and Jim Digby (Event Safety Alliance). Areas of conversation include how to recognize when someone is experiencing a mental health crisis, available resources, and how you can help yourself and others get through these trying times.

Note: This episode does contain discussion of suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call 911, go to the nearest emergency room, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to reach a 24-hour crisis center or text MHA to 741741 at the Crisis Text Line.

Links:

Behind the Scenes Mental Health Initiative

While the pandemic has brought most event production to a halt, theatrical integrators and installers continue to work regularly. In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve chat with Chris Barbee (Bandit Lites) and Brian Phillips (Productions Unlimited, Inc) about how the recent pandemic has affected their operations, how safety impacts design and integration, and what challenges and opportunities production professionals should expect when moving into this side of the industry.

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we take a (non-political) look at some important crowd-related lessons event professionals can glean from the unrest at the United States Capitol on January 6, 2021. Topics include the difference between crowd management and crowd control, the importance of intelligence gathering, timely evacuation, leading vs pushing a crowd, security’s engagement with the audience, and more.

Show Notes:

National Network of Fusion Centers Fact Sheet (DHS.gov)

Capitol police officer praised as hero for diverting mob from Senate chamber (NBC News)

What steps should you take when putting gear back into service after long periods of disuse? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve chat with Elmer Veith of Reliable Design Services about the care and feeding of your rigging equipment. Discussion includes relevant ANSI standards, inspection of hoists & truss, questions to ask your vendor when renting equipment, and more.

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve chat with University Instructor, Ph.D. Candidate, and event professional Dede Hamm on research she’s conducting into the beliefs of event security workers, and how you can participate in the project.

About This Research:

My name is Dede Hamm and I am a Ph.D. candidate at Iowa State University working on my dissertation about validating an event security workers belief scale. The study will be the first to identify the people working in event security as well as discover why they are motivated to do the job. We are looking for security workers 18 years or older to participate in the survey and hope you could share this email with members of your staff to help us to recruit participants. We also welcome you and your leadership team to participate as we are hoping to get anyone who works in event security to participate.

Participation is completely anonymous and any identifying information will be deleted before we analyze the results. Eligible participants who complete the survey can enter their name in a random drawing to win one of five $50 Amazon cards.

Would you be interested in helping? The survey should not take your staff more than 10 minutes to complete. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to hearing from you soon.

Dede Hamm, Ph.D. Candidate (principal researcher)
Joan Su, Ph.D. (supervising faculty)

Survey Link: https://iastate.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3HQefEM8ypM9RoV

With theaters reopening in many parts of the country, we take a look at bringing your counterweight rigging systems back online with Ethan Gilson of Entertainment Rigging Services. Topics include the inspection process, failure points to focus on, regaining your muscle memory after an extended shutdown, and more.

LINKS:

Entertainment Rigging Services

Shackles, Burlap, and Lies (Podcast)

Show Notes:

Diversify the Stage

Diversity Panel Resource List

About Diversify the Stage:

Diversify The Stage was founded by Noelle Scaggs, co-lead vocalist of alt-pop band Fitz And The Tantrums, in the spring of 2020, with a focus on transforming the concert, events, and touring industries to increase more diverse representation.

The organization counts on the support of industry professionals and artists to collectively and actively build a culture of accountability that establishes more inclusive hiring practices and greater access to equitable opportunities for Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC); Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Queer (LGBTQ); Female-identifying and Gender Nonconforming individuals.

In less than a year, Diversify The Stage has set forth long-term change by partnering with the Music Forward Foundation to create educational and mentorship programs followed by paid internship/apprenticeship placements, in addition to working with NeverFamous.com to create a technical solution to hiring qualified touring staff.

Diversify The Stage has gained support from the biggest players in the industry, including Live Nation, Live Nation Urban, WME, UTA Music, Azoff Company, Elektra and Atlantic Records, The Black Music Action Coalition (BMAC), National Independent Venue Association (NIVA), The Event Safety Alliance, Roadies Of Color United, lighting collective EVEN Network, as well as, stage suppliers and designers Clair Global and TAIT.

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we talk electrical safety with author, ETCP-recognized instructor, and self-described "lighting guy" Richard Cadena. Join us as we discuss common electrical hazards in the entertainment space, why bypassing or altering equipment is a recipe for disaster, a few must-have tools for your safety toolkit, and the upcoming release of Richard's latest book.

Links:

Academy of Production Technology

Electricity for the Entertainment Electrician & Technician: A Practical Guide for Power Distribution in Live Event Production (3rd Edition)

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve chat with Greg Guzzetta and Patty Padilla of Safe Haus Group about their venture and experience managing COVID-19 compliance for one of the highest profile events in recent memory, the 2021 Presidential Inauguration.

Links:

Safe Haus Group Website

Instagram

LinkedIn

Twitter

Facebook

In this special episode of the The Event Safety Podcast, ESA President Jim Digby is joined by Meegan Holmes (Global Sales Manager, 8th Day Sound) and R. Christopher Maxwell (Vice President of Production Artists, Black Theatre Caucus) for a dialog on emotional safety in the workplace. They explore the direct connection between representation and safety, unrecognized behaviors that can negatively impact communication, what leaders can do to create a more open and inclusive environment for all, and more. This is an under discussed and often challenging topic, but one that is crucial to the safety and vitality of our industry.

Produced in collaboration with our friends at the Black Theatre Caucus and Show Makers.

Links:

Black Theater Caucus

Eighth Day Sound

Showmakers

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we recap a conversation Danielle and special co-host Kristi Ross-Clausen had with Tony Award-winning sound designer Jessica Paz about the “No More 10 out of 12s” campaign, and how this working model negatively impacts safety, productivity, mental/physical health, and overall quality of life. While the movement originated in the theatre world, the issues discussed will seem all too familiar to those working any type of live event.

Links:

No More 10 out of 12s

ESA Face Coverings

Jessica Paz Biography

One year after experiencing one of the worst COVID-19 outbreaks in the United States, New York’s live event industry is on the road to recovery. In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we take a ground-level look at reopening with two New York-based professionals, Christine Jones (Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts) and Erica Fee (Rochester Fringe Festival). We discuss how recent changes to CDC and state guidelines have affected their reopening plans, enforcement challenges, vaccination requirements, and more. There’s much to learn from their experience, regardless of where in the world you’re based.

Links:

ESA Face Coverings

Can you require your employees to be vaccinated? Can you ask your guests to show proof of vaccination before entry? Can you legally eject patrons for disregarding your event’s mask mandate? And what the heck does HIPAA stand for, anyway?! In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Steve Adelman puts on his attorney cap and provides a legal perspective on these and other timely COVID-related “controversies” currently facing event operators.

As many of us return to work, we do so with a measure of uncertainty, and in some cases a great level of concern. Rarely has mental health been more at the forefront for our workforce. Looking out for yourself & those around you is now possibly your most important skill. In this episode of the The Event Safety Podcast, ESA President Jim Digby discusses Mental Health First Aid training with Production Coordinator Debbie Taylor (Guns & Roses/Rolling Stones) and Consultant/MHFA Instructor Bryan Huneycutt (Huneybadger Entertainment). They explore why this training is so important to our industry, program objectives, how it has helped them in their professional and personal lives, and more.

ESA is partnering with Behind the Scenes charity to deliver Mental Health First Aid training this July in Nashville. More information and registration link can be found in the show notes.

SHOW NOTES:

Mental Health First Aid Training (Summer NAMM, July 14)

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast we dive into the often complicated world of insurance with Scott Carroll (Take1 Insurance), David Cloward (Hub Entertainment), Susan McGuirl (Hub Entertainment) and Peter Tempkins (Hub Entertainment). They explore why insurance is important, what coverage event professionals should carry, why one’s classification as a contractor vs. and employee matters, what the insurance industry landscape looks like post-COVID, and more.

Show Notes:

Event Safety Access Training

ESA Crew Cover

After more than a year without events, being back to ‘normal’ can feel a little bit.. abnormal. In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve share their thoughts on ESA’s first in-person appearance since Winter 2020 as part of Summer NAMM in Nashville. They discuss what it was like being in a full-capacity, largely unmasked environment after more than a year, the challenges of navigating regional differences in attitudes towards COVID-19, and recap a rare but instructive disagreement that arose during their presentation over the way people typically respond to emergency situations.

A lot can change in a few short months. With the Delta variant surging and many jurisdictions reinstituting COVID-19 restrictions, Danielle and Steve check in with Morgan Deane (New York Independent Venues Association, Lasher Louis Productions) and Erica Fee (Rochester Fringe Festival) for a look at how they’re adjusting operations to account for our new (old) reality. Discussion includes New York City’s new vaccination requirement for live event venues, mask mandates, managing artists and vendors traveling in from COVID hot spots, accommodating young attendees and those who cannot be vaccinated, and more.

Show Notes:

Corsi-Rosenthal Cube (Build Your Own!)

Attention safety nerds! It’s time to break out the bookmark, make space on the bookshelf, or dust off that Kindle. In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve share some of their favorite safety-related (or safety-adjacent) books, as well as a number of excellent user-submitted recommendations. Whether you’re into behavioral psychology, history, or just a good safety manual there’s bound to be something to capture your interest.

If you have suggestions for our next episode of recommended reading, drop us a line at podcast@eventsafetyalliance.org.

Show Notes:

Influence, New and Expanded: The Psychology of Persuasion

The Hour Between Dog and Wolf: How Risk Taking Transforms Us, Body and Mind

Safety and Health for the Stage: Collaboration with the Production Process

The Event Safety Guide

Health & Safety Guide for Film, TV & Theater by Rossol, Monona. (Allworth Press,2011) [Paperback] Second (2nd) Edition

Practical Health and Safety Guidelines for School Theater Operations: Assessing the Risks in Middle, Junior, and Senior High School Theater Buildings and Programs

The special event risk management manual

Amanda Ripley: The Unthinkable : Who Survives When Disaster Strikes - And Why (Paperback); 2009 Edition

Stage Rigging Handbook, Third Edition

Rigging Math Made Simple, Eighth Edition

Entertainment Rigging - Revised and Expanded 2nd Edition

Triangle: The Fire That Changed America

The Circus Fire: A True Story of an American Tragedy

Tinder Box: The Iroquois Theatre Disaster 1903

The Checklist Manifesto: How to Get Things Right

Weather in the Courtroom: Memoirs from a Career in Forensic Meteorology

The Challenger Launch Decision: Risky Technology, Culture, and Deviance at NASA

Unfuck Your Brain: Getting Over Anxiety, Depression, Anger, Freak-Outs, and Triggers with science

Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life: Life-Changing Tools for Healthy Relationships (Nonviolent Communication Guides)

The Happiness Trap: How to Stop Struggling and Start Living: A Guide to ACT

What to Do When Things Go Wrong: A Five-Step Guide to Planning for and Surviving the Inevitable―And Coming Out Ahead

Killer Show: The Station Nightclub Fire, America’s Deadliest Rock Concert

Time to clip in and join us for another edition of The Event Safety Podcast! In this episode, Danielle and Steve examine the hazards of working at height with Rigging and Safety Manager Phil Van Hest. Topics of discussion include mobile elevated work platforms (MEWPS), applicable standards, rescue planning, training, inspections, and much more.

This episode is brought to you by Bigger Hammer Production Services

SHOW NOTES:

ANSI/SAIA A92.22: Safe Use Of Mobile Elevating Work Platforms (MEWPs)

Bigger Hammer Training Center

ABOUT PHIL:

Phil van Hest provides Rigging, Fall Protection and Heavy Equipment instruction in the LA area. Before entering the world of rigging safety, Phil toured the world as a comic/writer/performer, and thinks twice about mentioning it; rigging and safety are famously humorless subjects. Phil is the Safety and Rigging Manager for Bigger Hammer Production Services, and an ETCP Recognized Trainer holding certifications in Arena and Theatrical rigging. He currently resides in Orange County, another place in California named after a thing that used to be there before it got paved over.

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Steve and Danielle take a look at the newly-released ANSI ES1.4-2021 Event Fire Safety Requirements standard with the chair of the fire safety working group, ESA’s own Dr. Donald Cooper. They discuss the importance of this new standard, the thinking behind its development, how it was created and approved, topics covered and more.

From airplanes and grocery stores to stadiums and other event spaces, we are living through an unprecedented era of grievance and conflict. Ushers and event security are on the front lines of this battle between health and safety versus aggressively-held assertions of personal liberties. In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we rebroadcast a session from our recent Event Safety TV broadcast featuring Duke University Assistant AD of Game Ops, Championships and Events Becca Wilusz. Becca helps contextualize the issue as it affects event security , suggests methods that acknowledge people’s right to respectfully disagree, and explores how to de-escalate tensions and maintain safety for all attendees.

Show Notes:

PEACE IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD: Providing Event Security to Guests with Grievances (Youtube)

About Becca Wilusz:

Becca Wilusz serves as the Assistant Director of Athletics/Game Operations and Championships. Wilusz is a Duke Athletics lead in planning and execution of stadium safety and security operations and has been recognized as an Industry Leader Under 40 by The National Center for Spectator Sports Safety and Security. A multiple degree graduate of Duke University, Wilusz earned a B.S.E. in biomedical and mechanical engineering with a minor in history in 2007, a M.S. in biomedical engineering in 2011, and a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering in 2013.

We’re back with the first Event Safety Podcast of 2022! In this episode, Danielle and Steve are joined by Tami Richter and John Badcock from SXSW for a conversation about applying the Incident Command System to event operations. They discuss the foundational principles of ICS, the benefits of its use, integrating ICS to your event plans, and much more.

To the bridge! In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we expand on last episode’s conversation about the Incident Command System with a look at where the ICS magic happens - the command center. Danielle and Steve are joined once again by Tami Richter and John Badcock from SXSW, along with event control room specialist Chrissie Gilbert for a discussion on ideal room setup, technology, personnel and show operations.

The USITT Conference is this week, and what better way to celebrate then a new Event Safety Podcast episode on Broadway touring?! In this episode Danielle and Steve talk with NETworks Tours Senior Production Manager Hector Guivas about safety at touring theatrical productions. Discussion topics include using modeling to enhance safety, working across diverse and often challenging venues, coordination with house teams, show stop planning, and how COVID as changed productions and the touring environment.

Conference season is in full swing, which included the successful return of the USITT Conference earlier this month. In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve talk with outgoing USITT Executive Director David Grindle about lessons learned from at this year’s event, adjusting to changing COVID protocols, new program features, CTE training for high school students, improving diversity in the theatrical trades, and much more.

Many of us got our first taste of “the life” in our high school theater program. What if there was a framework for developing and evaluating the skills and knowledge we acquired back then? In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle sits down Kristi Ross-Clausen and Dana Taylor, two developers of the USITT BACKstage Exam (Basic and Comprehensive Knowledge Exam for High School Technical Theatre Students), designed to evaluate the knowledge and work readiness of technical theatre students at the high school level. They discuss the rationale behind its development, structure and topics covered by the program, how it differs from the existing eSET exam, and more.

Notes:

BACKstage Exam for High School Students (USITT)

Essential Skills for the Entertainment Technician (eSET)

Event Safety Access Training (ESAT)

It’s been a year since we last discussed insurance on the Pod…what’s changed since then? In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve welcome Rochelle Brotter-Wayne (Reel Media) and Peter Tempkins (HUB International) for a look at the current state of the event insurance industry. Topics of discussion include the role of your insurance partner, how claim size and frequency influences rates, COVID’s impact on availability of coverage, workers compensation, the benefits of insurers getting out in the field, and more.

What is harm reduction, and how does it apply to live events? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and special guest host Tami Richter chat with Stefanie Jones, harm reduction advocate and founder of the Safe Partying Program. They discuss how harm reduction principles can create safer events, strategies for implementation, training resources, the line between support and encouragement, and more.

NOTES:

Dancesafe

TripSit

Safer Partying Checklist (Drug Policy Alliance)

Harm Reduction Circle

Fireside Project

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Tami chat with Event Safety Advisor Doug Bruce about the intersection between event production and emergency management. They provide a debrief of their standing-room only appearance at a recent emergency management conference, the importance of working with your public safety partners, bridging the cultural gap between disciplines, and more.

NOTES:

Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX)

National Incident Management System

International Association of Venue Managers

ESTA Technical Standards Program

What does it take to create a comprehensive safety education program for event professionals? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle discusses the recently launched UC San Diego Event Safety Certificate Program with several of its creators—Ken Keberle (611 Resource Group), Stephanie Spann (UCSD), Stephanie MacGilfrey (UCSD), and Jacob Worek (ESA). Topics include the program’s goals, the subjects covered, who’s involved in its creation and delivery, and why it’s NOT an OSHA program.

Notes:

Event Safety | UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies

What is crowd science, and how can its study help create safer events? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast we dive back into the topic of crowds with Emma Parkinson, Course Director Postgraduate Programs in Crowded Places at Coventry University (Whew!). We discuss the foundations of crowd science, intrinsic and extrinsic factors that can influence crowd movement, how COVID, smartphones, and social media have impacted crowd behavior and loads more. 

Have you ever looked at a certificate of insurance and felt confused or overwhelmed by the details? Do you really know what that information means and how it protects you (or, worse, leaves you unprotected)?

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Hub International Vice President of Marketing Sue McGuirl joins Danielle and special guest co-host John Badcock for an in-depth look at insurance certificates. Discussion includes the purpose of a COI, how to interpret its contents, red flags to look out for, special considerations, and more.

Notes:

Certificate of Insurance Samples (ZIP File)
 

Is your meter lying to you? Can welding cable be used in event applications? Does electricity always take the path of least resistance? Is it ok to plug a power strip into another power strip? What about extension cords? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast Danielle welcomes back author, ETCP Recognized Trainer, ETCP Certified Entertainment Electrician, and all-around fabulous human Richard Cadena. He discusses his most recent article in Protocol Journal and challenges Danielle to a game of “Lies, Damn Lies, and More Lies”. If you work regularly with electrics, you MUST check out this episode.

Notes:

Is Your Meter Lying to You? (Protocol)

Richard Cadena Website

Entertainment Services & Technology Association (ESTA)

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve are joined by ESA board member Bryan Huneycutt for a discussion of key insights from Steve's recent participation at SERMAnar in Colorado Springs, which focused on processes related to active assailant events. We delve into his experience with a fresh approach to active shooter training, the limitations of the run/hide/fight strategy in event scenarios, the distinction between planned and unplanned attacks, and the importance of prioritizing evacuation planning in every active shooter response plan.

Note: This episode contains discussion of violence and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

In this holiday season "mini-episode" of the Event Safety Podcast, we share a few of the many stories told at our first "Safety Slam", held during this year's Event Safety Summit. Listen in for some AI-generated slam poetry, communication snafus, and tales of questionable "blue" drinking water. We hope you enjoy it and look forward to seeing you all again in the new year. Stay safe!

With the new year just days away, we're looking back at some of the most important, impactful, or undercovered stories of 2023. From guest issues to climate impacts, it's been an eventful 12 months in the safety world, so grab another cup of cocoa, put your feet up, and join Danielle and Steve as they close out the year.

From all of us at The Event Safety Podcast, have a safe and enjoyable holiday season. We'll see you in 2024!

Link:

ANSI ES1.40 – 2023 Event Safety - Event Security

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve delve into the psychological phenomenon of inattentional blindness and its potential impact on safety at live events. Topics covered include the illusion of attention, the science behind the phenomenon, strategies for overcoming it, and more.

LINKS:

The Monkey Business Illusion

The Invisible Gorilla (Book)

It's that time of year again...commencement season! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle is joined by Becca Wilusz (Duke University) and Joey Doster (PNC Arena) for a look at what goes into planning university and high school commencement ceremonies. Discussion includes unique demographic challenges, transportation planning, policy enforcement, communications, show-stop procedures, and preparing for high-profile (and sometimes controversial) speakers.  

Staging intimacy on stage and screen requires a delicate balance between artistic vision and actor well-being. In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve sit down with Laura Rikard, CEO of Theatrical Intimacy Education, a consulting group specializing in researching, developing, and teaching best practices for staging theatrical intimacy. They discuss what an intimacy coordinator/choreographer does, the profession's origins, its five guiding principles, the issue with the term "safe space," managing boundary issues, and more.

This episode contains adult themes and may not be suitable for younger listeners. 

Links:

Laura Rikard Bio
Theatrical Intimacy Education
Staging Sex: Best Practices, Tools, and Techniques for Theatrical Intimacy

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle recaps this year's excellent ESA Canada Conference with two members of the organization's leadership team, Janet Sellery and Kevin Tanner. They reflect on the highlights and key takeaways from this year's program, discuss balancing content and networking, and share what to expect at future editions.

Notes:

Event Safety Alliance Canada

Extreme weather, shootings, new laws, objects thrown at artists...a lot can happen in just a few short weeks. In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we welcome Steve back from a much-needed vacation and examine the lessons from the MANY safety-related incidents that occurred while he was away.

NOTES:

ANSI ES1.7 - 2021 Event Safety Requirements - Weather Preparedness

Global Crowd Management Alliance

2023 Event Safety Summit

"Don't write a Kobayashi Maru"

In the latest episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we welcome back the amazing Emma Parkinson for a deep dive into the topic of tabletop exercises. We look at what they are (and aren't), who should be included, how to develop one for your organization, common traps that undermine their effectiveness, and so much more. If you know Emma, you KNOW you're in for an experience, so grab those notepads and get listening.

This episode is brought to you by PRG. Thank you for your continued support of ESA!

You’re likely familiar with the environmental benefits of sustainable energy technologies (raise your hands, EV owners). But they can also help create safer, healthier event sites. In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast Danielle talks with Neel Vasavada, Founder and President of Overdrive Energy Solutions and member of ESA’s Board of Directors. They discuss the intersection of safety and sustainability, the basics and benefits of distributed battery power, and how his background in motorsports influenced his safety journey.

Time to talk about training! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve welcome back the extremely knowledgeable and always entertaining Phil Van Hest, Rigging and Safety Manager at Bigger Hammer Production Services. Topics of discussion include identifying who and what needs to be taught, training program development, hazard reporting, managing new crew members, the power of “openness”, and loads more. 

Notes:

Event Safety Access Training

Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP)

Bigger Hammer Online Training Courses

It's so much more than tennis! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve head down under (virtually) for a chat with Lee Ross and Martin Luders, part of the highly skilled safety and compliance team for the Australian Open. Discussion includes what goes into producing an event of this scale, weather planning, compliance, and how they prepared to manage this year's record-breaking attendance. 

This episode was originally released on March 21, 2021.

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we talk electrical safety with author, ETCP-recognized trainer, and self-described "lighting guy" Richard Cadena. Join us as we discuss common electrical hazards in the entertainment space, why bypassing or altering equipment is a recipe for disaster, a few must-have tools for your safety toolkit, and the upcoming release of Richard's latest book.

LINKS:

Academy of Production Technology

Electricity for the Entertainment Electrician & Technicia

We're back with the first Event Safety Podcast of 2023! In this episode, we discuss communications planning with Derrec Becker, Chief of Public Information & External Affairs at the South Carolina Emergency Management Division. Topics include incident communication planning, creative messaging, the importance of tone, platform selection, and loads more (and if you’re not following their Facebook Page, it’s HIGHLY recommended).

Notes:

South Carolina Emergency Management Division Facebook

FEMA Independent Study Courses

Fall has arrived, which means the Event Safety Summit is right around the corner! In anticipation of this year's event, this episode of The Event Safety Podcast looks back at a few of the many presentations we've featured at the summit over the last ten years (!), including insights from Nathan Vassberg (NASA), Kevin Kloesel (University of Oklahoma), Eric Stuart (Gentian Events), and Betty Siegel (Kennedy Center). Sate your safety hunger with a taste of what's to come, and be sure to register for this year's event at http://eventsafetysummit.com.

As outdoor event season slowly winds down, what can we learn from the experience? In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast Danielle chats with Jim Digby (President, Event Safety Alliance) and Jahn “Boxer” Hardison (President, Bigger Hammer Production Services) about what they’ve seen in the field during this VERY BUSY summer. They discuss how COVID continues to affect event operations, persistent worker & equipment shortages, the challenge of maintaining safety standards in the midst of chaos, and much more. 

How did you learn a career in live events was a thing? How did you end up in your profession? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we chat with Erin Grabe (ESTA) and Boxer Hardison (Bigger Hammer Production Services) about how they got their start and how we can make our industry enticing to those considering joining our "island of misfit toys."

Notes:

Event Safety Podcast Episode 52 - BACKStage Exam

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we put on our red shoes and hit the floor to discuss dance recitals and other events involving large numbers of children and families. Featuring a trio of Josh Webb (Coker University), Pamela Sturrock (Riverside Convention Center), and Devin Vanaman (Riverside Convention Center), discussion includes the unique risks presented by these events, protocols for production crews, the concept of the attractive nuisance, dealing with prop dads, and the correct way to pronounce "Worcester."

“The metal doesn’t make it safe. The metal provides the opportunity for the organizer to promote safety with other resources.”

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast we dive deep into the subject of barricades with Tim Roberts, Director of The Event Safety Shop. Discussion includes what is (and is NOT) acceptable barricade, types and applications, installation and oversight responsibilities, things to avoid, and whether you need it in the first place.

Notes:

The Event Safety Shop

Weather Planning for Mass Gatherings Workshop

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle welcomes a trio of crowd management experts from the United Kingdom Crowd Management Association (UKCMA) for a conversation about crowd safety in smaller venues - Anne Marie Chebib (Select Security & Stewarding Ltd), Eric Stuart (Gentian Events Ltd), and Tom Devine (TMS Protection). Discussion includes the development and philosophy behind the UKCMA’s new “Safer Crowds, Safer Venues” document, why “service' is the primary function in crowd management, planning tools and considerations, and more. 

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve recount a recent exchange an ESA associate had with a reporter regarding crowd crushes, and why the reporter was focused on the wrong issue. Discussion includes prioritizing root causes, the hierarchy of controls, human factors engineering, black swan events, and loads more.

Event Safety Podcast Episode 60: Crowd Science

Hierarchy of Controls

The Normalization of Deviance

The Challenger Launch Decision

The Black Swan

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we're chatting about the business of festivals and events with Steve Schmader, President and CEO of the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA). Conversation includes the origins of IFEA, focus areas, thoughts on the status of the events industry post-COVID, and more.

Notes:

International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA)

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve sit down with new USITT Executive Director Laura Lee Everett for a wide-ranging conversation about her background, USITT's safety programming, current initiatives, a sneak peek at their 2024 conference in Seattle, and selling a career in events to the toughest skeptics around...your parents.

Notes:

USITT

Southeastern Theater Conference (SETC)

Performing Arts Alliance

White Space (FCC)

Event Safety Podcast Episode 52 - BACKStage Exam

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we shift from the tennis court to the basketball court, with a look at the issue of "court storming" featuring Duke University Assistant Director of Athletics/Game Operations (and friend of the Pod) Becca Wilusz! We discuss what motivates attendees to take such actions, whether they are reasonably foreseeable, the impact of social media, how to plan for the possibility, and so much more. There's a takeaway for events of all types, so sports fan or not you'll want to give this one a listen. 

Independence Day is fast approaching, which means it's the perfect time to talk about pyro! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle Hernandez and special guest co-host Siobhan Colleen sit down with Pyrotek Special Effects Product and Technical Support and Safety Manager Brian Panther for a conversation about pyrotechnics safety. Discussion topics include planning, permitting, standards, transportation, restrictions, and much, much more.

Notes:

Effects of Recoil Forces from Large-Scale Pyrotechnics on Entertainment Structures (Protocol, Fall 2020)  

NFPA 1123 - Code for Fireworks Display

NFPA 1126 - Standard for the Use of Pyrotechnics Before a Proximate Audience

NFPA 160 - Standard for the Use of Flame Effects Before an Audience