Does your school have a stage? Whether it be a temporary stage or a permanent stage, as we approach Nativity Play season, here are some helpful checks you can do to make sure your stages are safe:

• Are there appropriate escape routes to anyone on the stage or backstage that are always kept clear and accessible?
• Are the stage curtains and any curtains around the hall fire resisting? You should look for a BS number on the label (BS5867) to confirm this. Top tip: take a photo of the label and keep a copy in your fire folder so it is easily accessible during the Fire Risk Assessment.
• Have you had your stage lighting maintained and serviced regularly?
• Do you ensure that stage lighting is kept free from combustibles? You should have an annual inspection for stage lighting on Civica, if you don’t please email property@somerset.gov.uk. As tempting as it may be to hang decorations from or near to the lights, please don’t as they get extremely hot.
• Do you have a process in place for ensuring all electrical items are switched off at the end of the day?
• Before any performance begins, is a safety briefing given to the audience to inform them of their nearest escape route and procedures to follow in the event the fire alarm goes off?

Learn more: 

How to find your Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) and plan on Civica
Civica Summary for Schools
Guidance sheets for Questionnaires (Annual Returns), Inspections and Fire Risk Assessment (FRA) actions in Civica