This Speaker & Screen Flying SOP (Safe Operating Procedure) sets out how to rig and fly PA speaker arrays and video or projection screens from truss, beams or rated rigging points at events and venues, using motorised chain hoists or manual rigging. It covers lifting and rigging plans, load calculations, inspecting rigging hardware, hoist function tests, secondary restraints, exclusion zones and working safely below suspended loads. It's written by WHS specialists, aligned to Australian WHS legislation, and fully editable in Microsoft Word.
Who it's for
Audio visual and production companies
Event and concert production crews
Theatre and venue technical teams
Staging and rigging contractors
Conference and exhibition suppliers
Use it to
Train and induct workers in exactly how you expect the task to be done
Keep a clear reference at the machine, in the vehicle or on site
Record competency with the built-in sign-off
Show clients, insurers and auditors your safe work methods are written down
What this SOP covers
Dropped loads from failed rigging points, slings, shackles or hoists
Being struck or crushed by a suspended or swinging array or screen
Falls from truss, beams or elevated platforms while rigging
Exceeding the working load limit of hardware, hoists or mounting points
Uncontrolled descent from hoist malfunction or worn hardware
Electric shock from chain hoist controls and leads
Manual handling of speaker cabinets, screens, motors and hardware
What's included
8 pre-operational checks, from rigging competency and the lifting plan to hardware inspection, hoist function tests and communication
An 8-step operating procedure covering exclusion zones, ground-level assembly, secondary restraints, load limits, controlled lifts and trimming
Isolation and energy control for suspended loads and motorised hoist controls, including never leaving a load unattended
5 shutdown, housekeeping and post-operation steps
Emergency actions for shifting loads, failed rigging hardware, hoist malfunctions and stuck loads
PPE checklist and a list of related documents
Competency acknowledgement and worker sign-off
Space for your logo, SOP number, version and review dates
Why use this template
Saves hours compared with writing an SOP from a blank page
Written as clear, numbered steps that workers can follow on the job
Fully editable, so you can match it to your equipment, site and how your team works
The competency sign-off gives you a training record from day one
How it works
Buy online and download straight away. You'll also get an email with your link.
Add your logo, company name, SOP number and dates.
Check it suits your equipment and site, and edit anything you need to.
Train your workers and have them sign the competency acknowledgement.
Need more than one SOP?
This SOP is also included in the Ultimate Audio Visual SOP Bundle. At $197 for the whole bundle, it works out much cheaper than buying SOPs one at a time.
Common questions
Does it cover building truss or stage roofs?
No. Truss erection, stage roof structures and general event rigging are covered by the Temporary Structures and Event Rigging procedure.
Does it cover manual chain hoists as well as motors?
Yes. It covers flying loads with motorised chain hoists or manual rigging methods, including function testing hoists before use.
Are secondary restraints required?
Yes. The SOP requires a secondary restraint at each rigging and hardware connection point, in addition to the primary attachment.
Can I change it?
Yes. It's a Microsoft Word file, so you can add, remove or change any step, check or hazard, and add your own logo and details.
Does it suit my state?
Yes. It's written to the model WHS laws and suits all states and territories, including Victoria under the OHS Act and Regulations.
What if it doesn't suit my work?
You're covered by our 30-day money-back guarantee if it isn't fit for purpose.
