Bump In and Bump Out Procedure
v2.8
Purpose. This procedure sets the sequence, safety controls and records for loading in, setting up, testing, running and loading out any production or event in the black box theatre or an external venue.
1.Before bump in
The Production Manager must confirm the production schedule, crew roster, risk assessment, venue induction and equipment list at least five working days before bump in. Every crew member must have completed the Studio Aurora safety induction. Any rigging point loads, elevated work platform use or effects must be identified in the risk assessment with the licensed operator named.
2.Toolbox talk
Bump in must start with a toolbox talk led by the Production Manager or stage manager covering the schedule, the risk assessment, exclusion zones, emergency exits, first aid and who is in charge. Attendance must be recorded. Crew arriving later must be briefed before they start work.
3.Sequence of work
Work proceeds in the order: unload and stage equipment, rig overhead elements (lighting, sound, vision, flown scenery), install staging and floor elements, run temporary power, focus and patch, test systems, technical rehearsal. Overhead work must be complete and the area cleared before floor work starts beneath it. No one works beneath a person working at height.
- Unload and stage
- Overhead rigging
- Staging and floor
- Power and cabling
- Focus, patch and test
- Technical and dress rehearsal
4.Electrical and equipment
All electrical equipment must carry a current test tag recorded in the Equipment Test and Tag Register. Temporary power must be run through residual current protection and cables must be flown, matted or taped so they are not a trip hazard. Equipment that fails a check must be tagged out and removed from the venue.
5.Show conditions
Before opening the house the stage manager must confirm a systems check, clear exits, working emergency lighting, haze or strobe warnings displayed where used and front of house briefed. The show will not open until the stage manager gives clearance.
6.Bump out
Bump out follows the reverse sequence: power down and isolate, strike floor and staging, de-rig overhead elements, pack and load. Fatigue must be managed: no crew member will work more than 12 hours in a day without approval and a rest break must be taken every four hours. Damaged or missing equipment must be recorded before the venue is left.
7.Records
The Production Manager will file the toolbox talk attendance, risk assessment, test and tag checks, incident reports and equipment reconciliation against the production in the Project and Job Board within two working days of bump out.