Being a stage actor can be hazardous if you and your fellow actresses and actors don’t take the proper precautions. The CDC and groups of family doctors recognizes the dangers that often come with a stage performance. Some of them are unavoidable risks. If you’re expected to participate in a scene that could possibly result in injury, being educated about what can go wrong may prevent the accident from happening. Here are just a few hazards to avoid.
Falls From Heights
In theatrical performances like Spiderman and Peter Pan, actors are often expected to use devices provided by professional fly companies. These are businesses that provide special effects to stage crews. Their harnesses and lifts usually work like magic. However, it isn’t unheard of for something to go wrong. Make sure the equipment is sturdy and well tested before use.
Repetitive Strain Injuries
Another common source of injury among actors are repetitive strain injuries. Many of the tasks you do on stage are physical. Accomplishing difficult dance moves and holding natural positions may cause the audience to applause, but it isn’t doing much for your health.
Exposure To Solvents And Paints
Props are often made to look as good as they can with the cheapest material possible. This can lead to manufacturers cutting corners with dangerous paints and solvents that contain dangerous glues and chemicals. Never go near the stage while a prop is being painted.
Electrocution, Fires
To see the actors on stage, it must be well lit. With electricity comes danger. If a cord is broken in anyway, it could create sparks that can cause the props on stage to burn. An actor can also get electrocuted if he comes close to a broken cord.
You can prevent something disastrous from happening by keeping a fire extinguisher on set. Also, try not to commit any major fire-safety violations. In short, don’t keep an excessive amount of flammable material on the stage.
Noise
While noise isn’t going to cost an actor his life, it could result in hearing loss. Try to stay clear of loud noises unless they’re unavoidable. You may not be able to stop them on stage, but you don’t have to listen to loud music when you get home.
Don’t Worry, Be Happy!
Don’t worry too much about injury. Most performances go on without anyone getting hurt. As long as you follow basic safety precautions, there shouldn’t be any trouble.
Kandice Hedrick
Freelance Journalist, Mass Communication Professor. Trying to be a good human being & good global citizen .