The new net system is a result of the experience gained on Star Rigging’s successful installation of similar permanent nets on the grid at Wembley Arena. These nets are the preferred choice of the HSE, as a net installation is the only ‘passive’ system that does not require a positive action by workers to remain safe, and the nets also allow for self-rescue in the event of a fall.
The nets meet all relevant British Standards, being fully fire retardant, with a mesh size suitable to pass chain hooks through. Satisfactory installation at each event will be an additional item added to Star Hire’s inspection and hand-over documentation and they will be issuing new guidelines to all users to ensure the highest possible standards of safety. The net is an additional safety feature as all crew working in the roof still require a full harness, both for connection to an inertia reel device to access the roof in the first place and for subsequent work place positioning.
Another important element to Star Hire’s commitment to safety is its annual training programme, undertaken by managing director Maddy Sheals and managers Jake Piper (HRM for VerTech crew) and Graham Thomas (project manager for mobile StarStages). The focus of this year’s training is on crew boss responsibilities on site, which includes health and safety, effective reporting and crew deployment and assessment. There will also be extensive courses for the expanded mobile stage crews covering theory, practical and health & safety.
(Ruth Rossington)
