The Event Safety Podcast

Episode 115: The Training Pod ---------------------------------------- Phil van Hest and Sean Fox of Rock Force join Danielle and Bryan to tackle a question that many organizations eventually face: where do you start when you're building a crew training program from scratch?   Using a hypothetical production company as a framework, the conversation works through the foundational decisions every training program requires, beginning with logistics and goals and moving quickly into substance. Phil walks through fall protection as a practical example for any crew working at height, explaining the four tiers of the fall pro world, why ANSI standards often offer clearer guidance for entertainment than OSHA in most live event crew training situations, and how PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) should be baked into any program from day one as a living document. The discussion covers training records and certification tracking, lead-to-crew ratios, minimum standards for non-rigging crew, PPE orientation, duty of care, and the hierarchy of controls as a practical framework for teaching people what they are not authorized to do.   Co-host Brian Huneycutt steps in and his question about psychological safety brings the conversation into focus. Phil and Sean make the case that safety culture is the real curriculum underneath all the technical content. Leads need to know their crew by name. New people need permission to say they don't know something. Safety officers need to understand both where their authority starts and where it ends. And every person on a job site needs to understand that in an industry as small and visible as live entertainment, unsafe behavior has ripple effects far beyond the one load-in where it happens.   For anyone starting from zero, Phil's bottom line is clear: PPE training is part of compliance and gets safety onto people's bodies and into their behavior from the start. Pair that with an explicit safety culture message on day one, and you're already ahead of where most companies begin.   Hosts: Danielle Hernandez (host) Brian Huneycutt (co-host)   Guests: Phil van Hest | Senior Director of National Safety, Rock Force Sean Fox | Rock Force https://www.rockforce.com/services#safety-heading   Show Notes: ANSI Z359.1 & Z359.2 (Fall Protection Standards) | https://webstore.ansi.org ANSI Z490 (Criteria for Accepted Practices in Safety, Health and Environmental Training) | https://webstore.ansi.org https://tsp.esta.org/tsp/index.html PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) | Search online for PDCA infographic https://eventsafetyalliance.org/safer-events-series    Weather Preparedness Contact Danielle | [email protected]

Episode 114: ESA 114 - GCMA's The Service Playbook ---------------------------------------- What does it take to turn a safety plan into a positive experience for your attendees? Danielle Hernandez sits down with Thyr Rodrigues, a spectator services veteran whose career spans the FIFA World Cup Brazil 2014, the Rio 2016 Olympics, the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games, and UEFA's Euro 2020 and 2024, to explore The Service Playbook, a new resource from the Global Crowd Management Association (GCMA). Thyr defines "service" as the intentional, proactive, and engaging use of human and physical resources at the frontline of contact with your audience. It's the bridge between your safety and security plan and the people who need to follow it. The conversation walks through the Playbook's first six chapters, covering headcount planning and service roles (spectator marshals, ushers, pre-information marshals), equipment like umpire chairs and foam hands, operations plans, deployment cards, and the pocket guides that give frontline staff the tools to answer questions on the spot. The discussion also digs into decision points, RAMP analysis, and how service teams function as the eyes and ears of the command room, knowing not just how to help, but who to tell when something goes wrong. Thyr's framework was built on major sporting events, but as Danielle notes, it's easily scalable and transferable to events of any size and type. With chapters on training and event day preparation still to come, The Service Playbook is well worth a look for anyone thinking about how to set their crowd up for success from the very beginning. Guests: Thyr Rodrigues https://www.linkedin.com/in/thyrrodrigues/ Hosts: Danielle Hernandez (host) Show Notes: Global Crowd Management Association (GCMA) | https://thegcma.com/ The Service Playbook | Available at GCMA website, with supporting templates available for GCMA members Contact Danielle | [email protected]

It's March Madness!  In this episode, hosts Danielle Hernandez and John Badcock explore the logistical and operational complexities of hosting the annual NCAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments. They are joined by Joey Doster (Lenovo Center, NC) and Becca Wilusz (Duke University) to discuss the bidding process, rapid scheduling, security perimeters, broadcast constraints and the challenges of managing massive crews.   These highly anticipated and widely viewed events are complicated and complex, with details from towels to hostile vehicle mitigation and our guests are well versed in the nuances of the "dance". Hosts: Danielle Hernandez (host) John Badcock (co-host) Guests: Joey Doster | Director of Security and Guest Experience, Lenovo Center Becca Wilusz | Assistant Director of Athletics for Game Operations, Duke University Show Notes:   Watch March Madness Live on NCAA | NCAA.com Host Selection & Bidding for Men's and Women's tournaments Logistical Complexity of arena "Session" flips and rapid turnarounds Coordinating travel and hospitality for teams, bands, and broadcast crews Security & Public Safety collaboration with law enforcement Managing the "Zone X" perimeter outside the venue The Human Element, staff resilience, and accommodating live mascots Media & Broadcast coordination and schedule management

In this episode, Danielle and Doug Bruce speak with UK events operations consultant Miriam Stone about Major Incident Planning for event operations. The conversation explores the critical differences between standard operational incidents and major incidents that require a multi-agency response. Key topics include emergency reporting, crowd management, the importance of continuous training and tabletop exercises, and empowering frontline staff to identify and report suspicious behavior. The episode also covers real-world event safety lessons and practical actions, including response strategies learned from the Manchester Arena bombing.   Hosts Danielle Hernandez | LinkedIn Doug Bruce, CSSP, CSP, MA | LinkedIn Guest Miriam Stone | LinkedIn Links & Resources JESIP: https://www.jesip.org.uk/ M/ETHANE Reporting Model: https://www.jesip.org.uk/joint-doctrine/m-ethane/ FEMA National Incident Management System (NIMS) Training: https://training.fema.gov/nims/ Left of Bang: https://www.amazon.com/Left-Bang-Marine-Combat-Program/dp/1936891301 The Purple Guide: https://www.thepurpleguide.co.uk/

Episode Summary In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, hosts Danielle Hernandez and Jim Digby explore the complex and visually stunning world of laser technology in live entertainment. They are joined by Roberta McHatton (Laser Safety Services) and Harry Boyde (ER Productions), who provide expert insights into the physics of lasers, the evolution of safety standards since the 1980s, and the rigorous protocols required for both indoor and outdoor productions. From managing FAA notifications for outdoor shows to the technical precision of "audience scanning," this discussion highlights how safety acts as an essential enabler for creative innovation in modern show design. Resources International Laser Display Association Laser Control Hardware Guests Roberta McHatton | LinkedIn Harry Boyde | LinkedIn Jim Digby, PMP®️ | LinkedIn Danielle Hernandez | LinkedIn Show Notes & Time Stamps [00:00] Introduction: Danielle shares a local connection to the co-inventor of the laser, Charles Townes. [02:10] Meet the Experts: Introductions for Roberta McHatton and award-winning laser designer Harry Boyde. [06:45] Laser Physics 101: A breakdown of the acronym and how photons are concentrated into hazardous beams. [12:30] Evolution of Safety: Comparing 1983 "nightclub" setups to modern 120-watt high-powered systems. [16:00] Termination Points: The importance of knowing where a beam ends to prevent equipment damage. [21:15] Outdoor Regulations: The role of the FAA, the 30-day notification rule, and using tools like FlightRadar24. [28:30] Audience Scanning: The science of using specialized lenses to make lasers safe for direct crowd exposure. [33:45] Emergency Protocols: The "Stop, Stop, Stop" rule and the critical role of the laser operator during a live performance. [37:10] Training and Resources: Where to find professional certification through ILDA or specialized classes. [46:40] Closing Segment: The team wraps up with final advice for the NEXT generation of production professionals.

Danielle and guest co-host Anita Hartsock are joined by Richard Cadena to discuss the dangers of electrical shock on stages.  We explore exactly how stray current can travel through gear and people and why proper grounding is absolutely crucial.  Also, there is discussion about some real incidents that illustrate the point and prove why a non-contact voltage sniffer should be a part of your tool kit. Join this electrifying conversation and learn about Richard's new book on entertainment electrical safety, his Substack and other electrical resources.  Let's work together to keep all our training current and everyone safe.Resources:Richard's website, Richard CadenaTSP ANSI 1.17Richard Cadena | LinkedInAnita Hartsock | LinkedIn

Hey friends! We’re getting a little bit "in the weeds" today, and behind the scenes at The Event Safety Alliance.  ESA is going through an exciting transition, and we are so delighted to be joined by our new leadership team to talk about what’s next for our Life Safety First mission.www.publichealtheverything.com

🎙️ You Guys! We Talked ETCP Certifications!If you’ve ever wondered how to determine who in this business really knows their discipline, especially in an industry without formal training requirements, this is the episode for you.We had Christina Smith from ESTA and Bill Sapsis of Sapsis Rigging and the ETCP Council join the Event Safety Podcast to break down the Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP). This program is designed to certify the skills of the top third of our industry professionals in 4 different areas of expertise.  It’s not just a test. The certification is based heavily on vetting hands-on work history, not just technical knowledge.  We cover the four certifications: Arena Rigger, Theatre Rigger, Entertainment Electrician, and Portable Power Distribution Technician.  Happy holidays and remember, don't hold the fireworks!https://etcp.esta.org/

This time around, John Badcock joins Danielle for a conversation on inspiration, motivation and the value of the event safety community.

October is definitely spooky season.  In celebration of haunts, scares and horror experiences, hosts Danielle & Bryan talk to Kim Scott, General Manager of the recently launched Universal Horror Unleashed.   The conversation ranges from jump scares to regulations and how to mentor the up-and-coming planners as they create new attractions in this genre.   Also, boo holes.  Happy haunting!!    Universal Horror Unleashed in Las Vegas. Four Haunted Houses

In this episode Danielle and guest co-host Boxer Hardison had a conversation with Jeff Reder of Clark Reder Engineering Inc., focused on discussing structural engineering for the entertainment industry, sharing insights about their work on concert stages, theater sets, and temporary structures for events like Coachella. The discussion covered engineering processes, challenges with weather and safety plans, and the evolution of design tools from traditional methods to modern 3D modeling software. Also addressed were industry trends, including the increasing use of engineering reviews for events and the implementation of new safety standards in the 2024 IBC, while concluding with advice for young professionals entering the field.https://www.clarkreder.com/https://tsp.esta.org/tsp/documents/published_docs.phphttps://codes.iccsafe.org/content/IBC2024V1.0

This week Danielle and guest co-host Janet Sellery talk with special guest, Betty Siegel, about accessibility in live events. They explore service animals, communication accommodations, and assistive technologies.  The conversation includes various accessibility considerations including sensory-friendly performances, mobility accommodations, and the importance of involving people with disabilities in the planning processes.  The conversation reflects on the need for empathy and knowledgeable staff in creating inclusive event spaces, while highlighting the ongoing evolution of accessibility technologies and practices.01:45 Kennedy Center article02:15 Zero Project04:00 Dogs & Horses13:06 Neural Divergence / Relaxed Performances18:24 Visual Impairment / Low Vision     More service animal talk25:03 American Sign Language26:44 Tactile interpreter34:00 Hearing Assistance43:66 Mobility57:43 Closing Credits58:13 Post Credit question

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, host Danielle is joined by ESA friends Jacob Worek and John Badcock for a round table discussion of what all has occurred so far this year in the event industry. From incidents, accidents, and near misses, to weather (so much weather), as well as tools and guidance, the first half of 2025 has been full of lessons for event professionals to consider when planning and executing performances and mass gatherings. See show notes for related links to incidents and resources.1:03 Belgium's Tomorrowland Saved by Metallica After Fire Destroys Main Stage11:00 8 children taken to hospitals after seizure-like symptoms at Harvard Square church concert14:20 Vehicle rammingLos Angeles: Man charged after car ploughs into crowd, injuring 30 - BBC NewsPolice: Liverpool parade car collision incident not terrorism - ESPN11 people killed, more than 20 hurt after SUV rams into Vancouver street festival | CBC News22:18 Weather cancellationhttps://variety.com/2025/music/news/steve-miller-band-cancels-all-tour-dates-due-to-weather-disasters-1236463342/Over 100 people fall ill at New Jersey graduations in 'mass casualty' incident due to extreme heatHome of Zelus - Official site of Zelus Environmental System32:50 Docket 266: Occupational Exposure to Heat and Hot Environments | NIOSH | CDC35:00 Stay hydrated: It’s going to be a long, hot July for much of U.S. | National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration36:30 Anna Lapwood | Official Website41:31 Young person electrocuted at St George's Day fete in Sussex | The Argus43:53 Structures & RiggingKaty Perry nearly falls as prop malfunctions mid-air over crowd | Culture | Independent TVBeyoncé's car malfunctions while suspended in air during concert in Houston - ABC7 Los Angeles49:05 Words Matter - The Language of Crowds — Global Crowd Management Alliance50:08 Standards and Guidance — Life Safety First : Event Safety AllianceANSI ES1.6 Event Safety - Communications[ANSI ES1.42-2025 Parade Safety] (https://eventsafetyalliance.org/s/ANSI-ES142-2025-Parade-Safety.pdf51:00 [NIOSH Faces Major Layoffs Amid HHS Restructuring, Slashing Two-Thirds of Workforce -- Occupational Health & Safety]https://ohsonline.com/Articles/2025/04/01/NIOSH.aspx)57:30 Credits & 2025 Event Safety Summit: Solidarity in Safety — Life Safety First : Event Safety Alliance57:52 Shakira postpones San Antonio, Houston shows

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and guest host Bryan Huneycutt have an in-depth discussion about life on the road with Ryan George of thistourlife.com. Topics included everything from a new retirement benefit program to challenges for physical, mental and financial health on tour as well as advocacy within the touring community.ThisTourLife.comAmber.healthtourhealth.orgctcbenefits.org

What does it take to build a worldwide tour From Zero? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle poses this question to long-time Linkin Park Tour Director (and ESA President) Jim Digby. They discuss how Linkin Park and their team kept the band's re-launch a secret from their notoriously dedicated fanbase, the production considerations involved in their first tour in eight years, the importance of building the right team, positive safety changes in international touring markets, and more.

In celebration of our 100th episode, we're sharing safety success stories from across the ESA community! From the creation of new standards and training programs to improved planning and collaboration, Danielle and guest co-host Tami Richter celebrate your wins and recognize our industry’s ongoing efforts to enhance safety for all.A sincere thank you to our guests and listeners for supporting the Event Safety Podcast. Here's to the next 100!

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and special guest host Dave Ellis dive into the world of event security with Dan Donovan, founder and Managing Partner of security solutions providers Stratoscope & Ingressotek. Discussion includes what goes into planning for event security, common misconceptions people have about the role, workforce development, technology, engaging with public safety, and loads more.Notes:ANSI ES1.40 - Event Security

What does it take to create a comprehensive safety education program for event professionals? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle discusses the recently launched UC San Diego Event Safety Certificate Program with several of its creators—Ken Keberle (611 Resource Group), Stephanie Spann (UCSD), Stephanie MacGilfrey (UCSD), and Jacob Worek (ESA). Topics include the program’s goals, the subjects covered, who’s involved in its creation and delivery, and why it’s NOT an OSHA program.Notes:Event Safety | UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies

There are many similarities between planning for event operations and emergency management. In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast Danielle and special guest host Doug Bruce (Creative Safety) explore these crossover points with two highly experienced, event-focused emergency managers we met at the Event Safety Alliance Canada Conference, Sherry Beard and Simon Hunt. They discuss a wide range of issues including planning, scalability, relationship building, leadership adaptability, and the importance of establishing trust. Enjoy!

In this holiday season "mini-episode" of the Event Safety Podcast, we share a few of the many stories told at our first "Safety Slam", held during this year's Event Safety Summit. Listen in for some AI-generated slam poetry, communication snafus, and tales of questionable "blue" drinking water. We hope you enjoy it and look forward to seeing you all again in the new year. Stay safe!

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle recaps this year's excellent ESA Canada Conference with two members of the organization's leadership team, Janet Sellery and Kevin Tanner. They reflect on the highlights and key takeaways from this year's program, discuss balancing content and networking, and share what to expect at future editions.Notes:Event Safety Alliance Canada

And...action! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we take a slight detour from the live events world to discuss safety in the film industry. Joining Danielle are two highly experienced film pros, Matt Sanders and Fess Shelton. They discuss the similarities and differences between safety in film and live events, the safety planning process, threats and mitigation strategies, roles and responsibilities, and the ongoing work of the "Safety for Sarah" campaign. Notes:Safety for Sarah

Fall has arrived, which means the Event Safety Summit is right around the corner! In anticipation of this year's event, this episode of The Event Safety Podcast looks back at a few of the many presentations we've featured at the summit over the last ten years (!), including insights from Nathan Vassberg (NASA), Kevin Kloesel (University of Oklahoma), Eric Stuart (Gentian Events), and Betty Siegel (Kennedy Center). Sate your safety hunger with a taste of what's to come, and be sure to register for this year's event at http://eventsafetysummit.com.

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and special guest co-host Kevin Kloesel welcome DTN Solution Engineer and Meteorologist Brad Nelson for a discussion about, as you guessed, weather, with a focus on extreme heat. They explore how heat has become the leading risk to live events, the lasting impacts of heat illness, Wet Bulb Globe Temperature, OSHA's proposed heat rule, and why consulting a professional meteorologist is more important than ever.Links: DTNOSHA's Proposed Heat RuleANSI ES1.7-2001 Event Safety - Weather PreparednessVirtual Weather Planning Workshop

Have you ever looked at a certificate of insurance and felt confused or overwhelmed by the details? Do you really know what that information means and how it protects you (or, worse, leaves you unprotected)?In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Hub International Vice President of Marketing Sue McGuirl joins Danielle and special guest co-host John Badcock for an in-depth look at insurance certificates. Discussion includes the purpose of a COI, how to interpret its contents, red flags to look out for, special considerations, and more.Notes:Certificate of Insurance Samples (ZIP File)  

Independence Day is fast approaching, which means it's the perfect time to talk about pyro! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle Hernandez and special guest co-host Siobhan Colleen sit down with Pyrotek Special Effects Product and Technical Support and Safety Manager Brian Panther for a conversation about pyrotechnics safety. Discussion topics include planning, permitting, standards, transportation, restrictions, and much, much more. Notes:Effects of Recoil Forces from Large-Scale Pyrotechnics on Entertainment Structures (Protocol, Fall 2020)  NFPA 1123 - Code for Fireworks DisplayNFPA 1126 - Standard for the Use of Pyrotechnics Before a Proximate AudienceNFPA 160 - Standard for the Use of Flame Effects Before an Audience

It's that time of year again...commencement season! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle is joined by Becca Wilusz (Duke University) and Joey Doster (PNC Arena) for a look at what goes into planning university and high school commencement ceremonies. Discussion includes unique demographic challenges, transportation planning, policy enforcement, communications, show-stop procedures, and preparing for high-profile (and sometimes controversial) speakers.  

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle welcomes a trio of crowd management experts from the United Kingdom Crowd Management Association (UKCMA) for a conversation about crowd safety in smaller venues - Anne Marie Chebib (Select Security & Stewarding Ltd), Eric Stuart (Gentian Events Ltd), and Tom Devine (TMS Protection). Discussion includes the development and philosophy behind the UKCMA’s new “Safer Crowds, Safer Venues” document, why “service' is the primary function in crowd management, planning tools and considerations, and more. 

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle welcomes back ESA board member Bryan Huneycutt for a recap of this year's USITT Conference in Seattle. They discuss key takeaways from this year's event, presentation highlights, current safety & health commission initiatives, and more. 

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve are joined by ESA board member Bryan Huneycutt for a discussion of key insights from Steve's recent participation at SERMAnar in Colorado Springs, which focused on processes related to active assailant events. We delve into his experience with a fresh approach to active shooter training, the limitations of the run/hide/fight strategy in event scenarios, the distinction between planned and unplanned attacks, and the importance of prioritizing evacuation planning in every active shooter response plan.Note: This episode contains discussion of violence and may not be appropriate for all listeners.

Staging intimacy on stage and screen requires a delicate balance between artistic vision and actor well-being. In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve sit down with Laura Rikard, CEO of Theatrical Intimacy Education, a consulting group specializing in researching, developing, and teaching best practices for staging theatrical intimacy. They discuss what an intimacy coordinator/choreographer does, the profession's origins, its five guiding principles, the issue with the term "safe space," managing boundary issues, and more.This episode contains adult themes and may not be suitable for younger listeners. Links:Laura Rikard BioTheatrical Intimacy EducationStaging Sex: Best Practices, Tools, and Techniques for Theatrical Intimacy

"Don't write a Kobayashi Maru"In the latest episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we welcome back the amazing Emma Parkinson for a deep dive into the topic of tabletop exercises. We look at what they are (and aren't), who should be included, how to develop one for your organization, common traps that undermine their effectiveness, and so much more. If you know Emma, you KNOW you're in for an experience, so grab those notepads and get listening.This episode is brought to you by PRG. Thank you for your continued support of ESA!

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we shift from the tennis court to the basketball court, with a look at the issue of "court storming" featuring Duke University Assistant Director of Athletics/Game Operations (and friend of the Pod) Becca Wilusz! We discuss what motivates attendees to take such actions, whether they are reasonably foreseeable, the impact of social media, how to plan for the possibility, and so much more. There's a takeaway for events of all types, so sports fan or not you'll want to give this one a listen. 

It's so much more than tennis! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve head down under (virtually) for a chat with Lee Ross and Martin Luders, part of the highly skilled safety and compliance team for the Australian Open. Discussion includes what goes into producing an event of this scale, weather planning, compliance, and how they prepared to manage this year's record-breaking attendance. 

It may be cold outside, but the latest edition of The Event Safety Podcast is RED HOT. In this episode, we welcome back Dr. Kevin Kloesel for an update on what's happening in the event weather space. Discussion includes how planning for one risk can introduce new ones, the importance of deeply understanding your venue, emergency messaging, new lightning guidance, and boatloads (or should we say snow shovels full) more.Link:National Center for Spectator Sports Safety & Security (NCS4)Grab your shovel! Bills mafia digs in with snow removal before high stakes Buffalo-K.C. playoff game (NBC News)ANSI ES1.7 - 2021, Event Safety Requirements - Weather Preparedness

With the new year just days away, we're looking back at some of the most important, impactful, or undercovered stories of 2023. From guest issues to climate impacts, it's been an eventful 12 months in the safety world, so grab another cup of cocoa, put your feet up, and join Danielle and Steve as they close out the year.From all of us at The Event Safety Podcast, have a safe and enjoyable holiday season. We'll see you in 2024!Link:ANSI ES1.40 – 2023 Event Safety - Event Security

What did YOU think of the 2023 Event Safety Summit? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we recap some highlights of this year's Summit with two attendees, Francesca Ghizzoni (Production Manager, SXSW) and Emily Jeu (Director of Production, Columbus Association for the Performing Arts). They share their views on what drove them to attend the Summit, why they believe it's important for event professionals to take part, what they found most compelling, and what they'd like to see at future events.

LINKS:ANSI ES1.40 - 2023, Event Safety - Event Security

It's a Powerpalooza! In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we get deep and nerdy on the subject of sustainable power in event applications with the team at Overdrive Energy Solutions. We discuss the safety benefits and challenges of portable battery technology, integrating it into your site plans, and their experience powering the guest package of a major artist at this year's Lollapalooza.This episode is brought to you by Event Safety Alliance CanadaLINKS:Overdrive Energy SolutionsReverbBillie Eilish, REVERB Partner Up To Deliver Solar-Powered Lollapalooza Set

What do you get when you mix a giant hill, thousands of students, and the last day of classes? A fantastic case study for The Event Safety Podcast! In this episode, Danielle and Steve are joined by Joseph Scaffido, Director of University Events at Cornell, for a look at the University's annual Slope Day event. From weather to crowds to infrastructure challenges, there's a lot to learn from this nearly 120-year-old gathering.LINKS:Slope Day (Cornell University)

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve delve into the psychological phenomenon of inattentional blindness and its potential impact on safety at live events. Topics covered include the illusion of attention, the science behind the phenomenon, strategies for overcoming it, and more.LINKS:The Monkey Business IllusionThe Invisible Gorilla (Book)

This episode was originally released on March 21, 2021.In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, we talk electrical safety with author, ETCP-recognized trainer, and self-described "lighting guy" Richard Cadena. Join us as we discuss common electrical hazards in the entertainment space, why bypassing or altering equipment is a recipe for disaster, a few must-have tools for your safety toolkit, and the upcoming release of Richard's latest book.LINKS:Academy of Production TechnologyElectricity for the Entertainment Electrician & Technicia 

Extreme weather, shootings, new laws, objects thrown at artists...a lot can happen in just a few short weeks. In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we welcome Steve back from a much-needed vacation and examine the lessons from the MANY safety-related incidents that occurred while he was away.NOTES:ANSI ES1.7 - 2021 Event Safety Requirements - Weather PreparednessGlobal Crowd Management Alliance2023 Event Safety Summit

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we put on our red shoes and hit the floor to discuss dance recitals and other events involving large numbers of children and families. Featuring a trio of Josh Webb (Coker University), Pamela Sturrock (Riverside Convention Center), and Devin Vanaman (Riverside Convention Center), discussion includes the unique risks presented by these events, protocols for production crews, the concept of the attractive nuisance, dealing with prop dads, and the correct way to pronounce "Worcester."

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve sit down with new USITT Executive Director Laura Lee Everett for a wide-ranging conversation about her background, USITT's safety programming, current initiatives, a sneak peek at their 2024 conference in Seattle, and selling a career in events to the toughest skeptics around...your parents.Notes:USITTSoutheastern Theater Conference (SETC)Performing Arts AllianceWhite Space (FCC)Event Safety Podcast Episode 52 - BACKStage Exam

How did you learn a career in live events was a thing? How did you end up in your profession? In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we chat with Erin Grabe (ESTA) and Boxer Hardison (Bigger Hammer Production Services) about how they got their start and how we can make our industry enticing to those considering joining our "island of misfit toys."Notes:Event Safety Podcast Episode 52 - BACKStage Exam

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we welcome back ESA Board Member and ESA Canada Executive Director Janet Sellery for a conversation on assessing risk. Topics of discussion include organizing risks factors, benefits & shortcoming of various assessment models, prioritizing process over specific tools, and more. They also drop some info on several upcoming events and ESA’s new student membership program. Check it out!Notes:Triangle: The Fire That Changed America (Book)The Checklist Manifesto (Book)ESA Canada

Time to talk about training! In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve welcome back the extremely knowledgeable and always entertaining Phil Van Hest, Rigging and Safety Manager at Bigger Hammer Production Services. Topics of discussion include identifying who and what needs to be taught, training program development, hazard reporting, managing new crew members, the power of “openness”, and loads more. Notes:Event Safety Access TrainingHazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP)Bigger Hammer Online Training Courses

In this episode of The Event Safety Podcast, we're chatting about the business of festivals and events with Steve Schmader, President and CEO of the International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA). Conversation includes the origins of IFEA, focus areas, thoughts on the status of the events industry post-COVID, and more.Notes:International Festivals and Events Association (IFEA)

In this edition of The Event Safety Podcast, Danielle and Steve continue their conversation from last episode with a closer look at the concept of the normalization of deviance, including its origins, why it happens, and most importantly how to avoid it. They also revisit the idea of the “Swiss cheese model” of risk mitigation and lessons from John Barylick’s excellent book on the Station Nightclub fire Killer Show. Notes:Killer ShowSwiss Cheese ModelThe Normalization of DevianceThe Challenger Launch Decision