Suffolk Digital Cinema Network

A Screen Near You in Suffolk

Manual handling

Some of the equipment is quite heavy, and you should take care when lifting it. The following points are stressed in the technical training session that you must attend before handling or operating the equipment:

Weights of cases are clearly marked, and stickers indicate when two people are needed (load >16kg);

A trolley is provided to reduce the amount of carrying required;

Correct lifting techniques are shown in the Health and Safety Executive booklet 'Getting to grips with manual handling - a short guide' .

Manual Handling Document

Trip hazards

When setting up the equipment, you will almost inevitably end up with cables lying where people could trip over them. This could cause injury - particularly to older people - and could also bring expensive bits of equipment crashing to the floor. It is a condition of borrowing the equipment that all cables running along the floor must be securely taped down using appropriate tape.

Electrical safety

The Network's electrical equipment was new when purchased, and will be regularly checked according to the portable appliance testing regulations. Please help us to keep it safe by observing the following:

- always check the equipment (especially cables) for signs of damage, before and after use;

- never attempt to repair the equipment yourself, but report any problems to technical support on 01986 873836 or 0791 8020239

- always use the four-way extension provided, which is surge-protected;

- do not let anyone who has not been trained handle or operate the equipment;

- do not use the equipment outside

Room capacity and layout

Find out what the maximum number of seats is for your venue (as set by Suffolk Fire Service). Consult your local authority's licensing officer or Suffolk Fire Service (01473 588888) if in doubt.

Follow fire safety requirements, particularly with respect to seating layout. Norfolk Fire Service has produced a handy summary of the regulations.

Emergency procedures

Keep fire exits clear and fire-fighting equipment accessible at all times, making sure that you and your helpers know how you would evacuate your venue quickly and safely. In case of an electrical fire ensure that:

CO2 or powder extinguishers are available and that you and your helpers would know how to use them, if safe to do so;

All your helpers know where to turn off the power supply to burning electrical equipment, if safe to do so.

Consider also the need for trained first aid cover at your screenings. There seem to be no hard rules, but - based on guidance for workplaces - it would be worth considering trained first aid cover if you have more than 50 people or so in your audience, particularly if your venue is in a relatively remote location. Many people hold current first aid certificates in relation to their work, or it might be possible to arrange cover from local organizations such as the St John Ambulance.