Event Safety Alliance announces the next edition of the Crowd Safety Symposium, taking place November 5-6, 2023 in Houston, Texas. This two-day workshop aims to provide an understanding of the four aspects of basic crowd safety and to provide techniques to plan and manage safe pedestrian flows in crowded places during all phases of an event.

ABOUT THE CROWD SAFETY SYMPOSIUM

Festivals, concerts, conferences, graduations, and athletic events all share one common characteristic – they all feature crowds. If your work involves planning to accommodate large groups of people, you need to know how to plan to mitigate these risks and keep your crowds safe. The course aims to provide an understanding of the four aspects of basic crowd safety and to provide techniques to plan and manage safe pedestrian flows in crowded places during all phases of an event including emergencies.

WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES

By the end of the workshop you should be able to:

• Understand the main risks in managing crowds.
• Understand the differences between crowd management and crowd control.
• Describe the phases of crowds and their psychology.
• Conduct calculations for flow rates and density for people in crowded places.
• Identify crowd behaviors in emergency situations and how to manage them.
• Understand how to use non-computer models to plan for crowds.
• Understand human behaviors that affect crowds: Route modeling, Normalcy Bias, Dread Theory, De-individuation and the RAS.

COURSE REVIEWS

“Eric went above and beyond with the information. With all the Special Events we approve in the City of Los Angeles his teaching will certainly be used where needed during the approval process.”
Chief John Benn, Los Angeles Fire Department

“This was a fantastic event. I’m taking a lot of what I learned and applying it immediately to my future events. I only hope you all keep doing this so more people can benefit.”
Mike Hanley, Festival Director

“I have been a road security guy since 1992. I started like most as personal protection and moved into security management , and quite frankly have all but given up on the industry . I feel rejuvenated . Eric and this Symposium was amazing.”
Steve 'Sully' Sullivan, Security Director

About the Instructor

Engaged in Crowd Safety Management for 15 years and working with crowds since 1980, Eric’s 33-year police career in London culminated in a planning role for Notting Hill Carnival and London New Year’s Eve (2005-2010), with viewing audiences of 1 million and 450k respectively. As Chief of Staff for the planning and delivery of the 70-day London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay, he was involved with the selection of all members of the team and was the sole member engaged to see the event through from initial planning through delivery and debrief.

His recent work includes supporting clients with the crowd safety challenges caused by the recent spate of terror attacks, as well as working with the UK government’s National Counter Terrorism Security Office (NaCTSO) to provide an appropriate response and advice to those emerging threats.

Eric writes and delivers crowd safety plans at events from major music festivals to motorsports and from large carnival processions to New Year’s Eve fireworks displays, working with private organizers, police and local authorities to achieve mutual understanding of one another’s roles in keeping crowds safe.

He holds a BA (Hon) degree in Crowd Safety Management and, in addition to training others undergoing the same degree at Buckinghamshire New University, teaches courses in the UK, US, and Canada for emergency services, local authorities and private companies where crowded places require careful crowd management in both normal and emergency situations. Eric is keen to ensure there is a better balance between the mathematics, physics and human behaviors when planning for crowds.

WORKSHOP FEE

Registration for each workshop is $250 for ESA members/$300 for non-members. Capacity for each training is extremely limited to ensure an optimal learning experience, so interested persons are encouraged to register early.

LOCATION

C. Baldwin, Curio Collection by Hilton
400 Dallas St
Houston, TX 77002

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellations requests received two (2) weeks prior to the start of the course are eligible for a full refund of the course fee or credit for a future course.

Cancellations requests received one (1) week prior to the start of the course are eligible for a 50% refund of the course fee, or a 100% credit for a future course.

Cancellations requests received less than one (1) week prior to the start of the course are ineligible for a refund, but will receive a 100% credit for a future course.

REGISTRATION

Members - $350

Non-Members - $400

Class size is extremely limited, so interested parties are encouraged to register early.

Note: Due to OSHA requirements, participation in this course is limited to those within the United States and who possess a U.S.-based mailing address.

DELIVERY

Course will be delivered via Zoom. Students will be emailed all session materials and information prior to class sessions.  Other material will be shared using screen sharing functions.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

Those participating in this course will need a digital device with microphone, forward facing camera, and stable internet connection.  Screen should be large enough to ensure all shared materials are sufficiently visible.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Ken Keberle has 20 years in the event industry, the last 9 in event safety.  He is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) and OSHA authorized instructor in both construction and general industry, who has taught dozens of OSHA 10 and 30 courses over 600 students. He also teaches OSHA standards classes, Instructor classes, and other safety classes for Arizona State UniversityExtension. He is a long-time member and supporter of the Event Safety Alliance and its mission.

QUESTIONS

For questions regarding this course, please email info@eventsafetyalliance.org

Event Safety Alliance is pleased to announce another edition of our OSHA 30 General Industry Training, specially curated for those working in the live event and entertainment fields.

This online, real-time learning opportunity will be delivered via video conference over 8 sessions. The course adheres to all OSHA 30 program requirements, with a focus on how the issues addressed apply in a live event working environment. Participants will receive a DOL/OSHA General Industry Outreach completion wallet card at the end of the course.

DATES

Class will be held on Tuesday evenings from 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Pacific on the following dates:

• October 4, 2022

• October 11, 2022

• October 18, 2022

• October 25, 2022

• November 1, 2022

• November 8, 2022

• November 15, 2022

• November 22, 2022

*Participants must attend all sessions to receive a completion card.

AGENDA

Topics discussed each week are as follows:

• Introduction to OSHA / Managing Health and Safety

• Intro to Risk Analysis and Hazard Assessment

• Intro to Industrial Hygiene

• Personal Protective Equipment

• Exit routes, Fire prevention and plans, Emergency Action Plan

• Electrical

• Walking and Working Surfaces / Fall Protection; Rescue planning for Work at height employees

• Confined Spaces / Lockout - Tagout / Machine Guarding

• Materials Handling

• First Aid, Emergency Response / Case Study #1 Group work

• Powered Industrial Vehicles

• Hazardous materials / Hazard Communication

• Ergonomics / Accident Reporting

• Safety and Health Programs/ Case Study #2

• Safety and Health Programs (pt 2) / Accident Investigations

• Bloodborne Pathogens / Welding, Cutting, and Brazing / Case Study #3

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations requests received two (2) weeks prior to the start of the course are eligible for a full refund of the course fee or credit for a future course.

Cancellations requests received one (1) week prior to the start of the course are eligible for a 50% refund of the course fee, or a 100% credit for a future course.

Cancellations requests received less than one (1) week prior to the start of the course are ineligible for a refund, but will receive a 100% credit for a future course.

Event Safety Alliance announces the next edition of the Crowd Safety Symposium, taking place September 8-9, 2022 at Furman University in beautiful Greenville, SC. This two-day workshop aims to provide an understanding of the four aspects of basic crowd safety and to provide techniques to plan and manage safe pedestrian flows in crowded places during all phases of an event.

ABOUT THE CROWD SAFETY SYMPOSIUM

Festivals, concerts, conferences, graduations, and athletic events all share one common characteristic – they all feature crowds. If your work involves planning to accommodate large groups of people, you need to know how to plan to mitigate these risks and keep your crowds safe. The course aims to provide an understanding of the four aspects of basic crowd safety and to provide techniques to plan and manage safe pedestrian flows in crowded places during all phases of an event including emergencies.

WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES

By the end of the workshop you should be able to:

• Understand the main risks in managing crowds.
• Understand the differences between crowd management and crowd control.
• Describe the phases of crowds and their psychology.
• Conduct calculations for flow rates and density for people in crowded places.
• Identify crowd behaviors in emergency situations and how to manage them.
• Understand how to use non-computer models to plan for crowds.
• Understand human behaviors that affect crowds: Route modeling, Normalcy Bias, Dread Theory, De-individuation and the RAS.

COURSE REVIEWS

“Eric went above and beyond with the information. With all the Special Events we approve in the City of Los Angeles his teaching will certainly be used where needed during the approval process.”
Chief John Benn, Los Angeles Fire Department

“This was a fantastic event. I’m taking a lot of what I learned and applying it immediately to my future events. I only hope you all keep doing this so more people can benefit.”
Mike Hanley, Festival Director

“I have been a road security guy since 1992. I started like most as personal protection and moved into security management , and quite frankly have all but given up on the industry . I feel rejuvenated . Eric and this Symposium was amazing.”
Steve 'Sully' Sullivan, Security Director

WORKSHOP FEE

Registration for each workshop is $235 for ESA members/$260 for non-members. Capacity for each training is extremely limited to ensure an optimal learning experience, so interested persons are encouraged to register early.

LOCATION & LODGING

Furman University
McAlister Auditorium
3300 Poinsett Highway
Greenville, SC 29613

Directions & Lodging Information (PDF)

CANCELLATION POLICY

Cancellations requests received two (2) weeks prior to the start of the course are eligible for a full refund of the course fee or credit for a future course.

Cancellations requests received one (1) week prior to the start of the course are eligible for a 50% refund of the course fee, or a 100% credit for a future course.

Cancellations requests received less than one (1) week prior to the start of the course are ineligible for a refund, but will receive a 100% credit for a future course.

REGISTRATION

Members - $85

Non-Members - $100

To ensure maximum student and instructor engagement, class size is extremely limited.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Ken Keberle has 20 years in the event industry, the last 9 in event safety.  He is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) and OSHA authorized instructor in both construction and general industry, who has taught dozens of OSHA 10 and 30 courses over 600 students. He also teaches OSHA standards classes, Instructor classes, and other safety classes for the University of California, San Diego Extension. He is a long time member and supporter of the Event Safety Alliance and its mission.

Event Safety Alliance is pleased to announce another edition of our OSHA 10 General Industry Training, specially curated for those working in the live event and entertainment fields.

This online, instructor-led learning opportunity will be delivered via video conference over three consecutive days. The course adheres to all OSHA 10 program requirements, with a focus on how the issues addressed apply in a live event working environment. Participants will receive a DOL/OSHA General Industry Outreach completion wallet card at the end of the course.

DATE & TIME (Note Time Zone)

Class will be held over three consecutive days from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM PDT. Dates are as follows:

• August 16, 2022

• August 17, 2022

• August 18, 2022

*Participants must attend all sessions to receive a completion card.

AGENDA

Topics covered in this course include:

• Introduction to OSHA

• Walking, Working Surfaces

• Exit Routes, Emergency Action Plans, Fire Prevention Plans, and Fire Protection

• Electrical Safety

• PPE

• Hazard Communication

• Material handling

• Blood Borne Pathogens

• Intro to IH

• Fall Protection

• Safety and Health Programs

  All training days will allow time for breaks and assessment activities in addition to mandated contact hours

DELIVERY

Course will be delivered via the Zoom conferencing platform. Students will be emailed all session materials and information prior to class sessions. Other material will be shared using screen sharing functions as provided by Zoom.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

Those participating in this course will need a digital device with microphone, forward facing camera, and stable internet connection.  Screen should be large enough to ensure all shared materials are sufficiently visible.

QUESTIONS

For questions regarding this course, please email info@eventsafetyalliance.org

REGISTRATION

Members - $85

Non-Members - $100

To ensure maximum student and instructor engagement, class size is extremely limited.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Ken Keberle has 20 years in the event industry, the last 9 in event safety.  He is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) and OSHA authorized instructor in both construction and general industry, who has taught dozens of OSHA 10 and 30 courses over 600 students. He also teaches OSHA standards classes, Instructor classes, and other safety classes for the University of California, San Diego Extension. He is a long time member and supporter of the Event Safety Alliance and its mission.

Event Safety Alliance is pleased to announce another edition of our OSHA 10 General Industry Training, specially curated for those working in the live event and entertainment fields.

This online, instructor-led learning opportunity will be delivered via video conference over three consecutive days. The course adheres to all OSHA 10 program requirements, with a focus on how the issues addressed apply in a live event working environment. Participants will receive a DOL/OSHA General Industry Outreach completion wallet card at the end of the course.

DATE & TIME (Note Time Zone)

Class will be held over three consecutive days from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM EDT. Dates are as follows:

• August 16, 2022

• August 17, 2022

• August 18, 2022

*Participants must attend all sessions to receive a completion card.

AGENDA

Topics covered in this course include:

• Introduction to OSHA

• Walking, Working Surfaces

• Exit Routes, Emergency Action Plans, Fire Prevention Plans, and Fire Protection

• Electrical Safety

• PPE

• Hazard Communication

• Material handling

• Blood Borne Pathogens

• Intro to IH

• Fall Protection

• Safety and Health Programs

  All training days will allow time for breaks and assessment activities in addition to mandated contact hours

DELIVERY

Course will be delivered via the Zoom conferencing platform. Students will be emailed all session materials and information prior to class sessions. Other material will be shared using screen sharing functions as provided by Zoom.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

Those participating in this course will need a digital device with microphone, forward facing camera, and stable internet connection.  Screen should be large enough to ensure all shared materials are sufficiently visible.

QUESTIONS

For questions regarding this course, please email info@eventsafetyalliance.org

ESA is thrilled to be hosting two days of informational sessions and presentations at The 2022 NAMM Show, taking place June 3-5, 2022 at the Anaheim Convention Center.

With key speakers from across event safety, learn about topics including optimizing your event set-up to ensure the safety of performers and crowds, supporting the physical and mental health of events teams, hosting sustainable events, planning successful post-pandemic events and more.

Additionally, ESA will also be hosting networking receptions and member meetups during The NAMM Show.

REGISTRATION

Members - $85

Non-Members - $100

To ensure maximum student and instructor engagement, class size is extremely limited.

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

Ken Keberle has 20 years in the event industry, the last 9 in event safety.  He is a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) and OSHA authorized instructor in both construction and general industry, who has taught dozens of OSHA 10 and 30 courses over 600 students. He also teaches OSHA standards classes, Instructor classes, and other safety classes for the University of California, San Diego Extension. He is a long time member and supporter of the Event Safety Alliance and its mission.

Event Safety Alliance is pleased to announce another edition of our OSHA 10 General Industry Training, specially curated for those working in the live event and entertainment fields.

This online, instructor-led learning opportunity will be delivered via video conference over three consecutive days. The course adheres to all OSHA 10 program requirements, with a focus on how the issues addressed apply in a live event working environment. Participants will receive a DOL/OSHA General Industry Outreach completion wallet card at the end of the course.

DATE & TIME (Note Time Zone)

Class will be held over three consecutive days from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM PDT. Dates are as follows:

• May 10, 2022

• May 11, 2022

• May 12, 2022

*Participants must attend all sessions to receive a completion card.

AGENDA

Topics covered in this course include:

• Introduction to OSHA

• Walking, Working Surfaces

• Exit Routes, Emergency Action Plans, Fire Prevention Plans, and Fire Protection

• Electrical Safety

• PPE

• Hazard Communication

• Material handling

• Blood Borne Pathogens

• Intro to IH

• Fall Protection

• Safety and Health Programs

  All training days will allow time for breaks and assessment activities in addition to mandated contact hours

DELIVERY

Course will be delivered via the Zoom conferencing platform. Students will be emailed all session materials and information prior to class sessions. Other material will be shared using screen sharing functions as provided by Zoom.

TECHNICAL REQUIREMENTS

Those participating in this course will need a digital device with microphone, forward facing camera, and stable internet connection.  Screen should be large enough to ensure all shared materials are sufficiently visible.

QUESTIONS

For questions regarding this course, please email info@eventsafetyalliance.org

Event Safety Alliance announces the return of the Crowd Safety Symposium, taking place March 28-29, 2022 in the Los Angeles Metropolitan area. This two-day workshop aims to provide an understanding of the four aspects of basic crowd safety and to provide techniques to plan and manage safe pedestrian flows in crowded places during all phases of an event.

ABOUT THE CROWD SAFETY SYMPOSIUM

Festivals, concerts, conferences, graduations, and athletic events all share one common characteristic – they all feature crowds. If your work involves planning to accommodate large groups of people, you need to know how to plan to mitigate these risks and keep your crowds safe. The course aims to provide an understanding of the four aspects of basic crowd safety and to provide techniques to plan and manage safe pedestrian flows in crowded places during all phases of an event including emergencies.

WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES

By the end of the workshop you should be able to:

• Understand the main risks in managing crowds.
• Understand the differences between crowd management and crowd control.
• Describe the phases of crowds and their psychology.
• Conduct calculations for flow rates and density for people in crowded places.
• Identify crowd behaviors in emergency situations and how to manage them.
• Understand how to use non-computer models to plan for crowds.
• Understand human behaviors that affect crowds: Route modeling, Normalcy Bias, Dread Theory, De-individuation and the RAS.

WORKSHOP FEE

Registration for each workshop is $235 for ESA members/$260 for non-members. Capacity for each training is extremely limited to ensure an optimal learning experience, so interested persons are encouraged to register early.

COVID SAFETY

Attendees of this training will be asked to provide proof of full vaccination before entering the event. Masks must be worn at all times while on premises. Additional safety measures may be enacted based on conditions and/or local requirements.

COURSE REVIEWS

“Eric went above and beyond with the information. With all the Special Events we approve in the City of Los Angeles his teaching will certainly be used where needed during the approval process.”
Chief John Benn, Los Angeles Fire Department

“This was a fantastic event. I’m taking a lot of what I learned and applying it immediately to my future events. I only hope you all keep doing this so more people can benefit.”
Mike Hanley, Festival Director

“I have been a road security guy since 1992. I started like most as personal protection and moved into security management , and quite frankly have all but given up on the industry . I feel rejuvenated . Eric and this Symposium was amazing.”
Steve 'Sully' Sullivan, Security Director

How to set up portable power distribution safely and efficiently. Presented by ETCP Recognized Trainer and author Richard Cadena, this two-day class is for anybody who is involved in setting up stages or oversees the setup of stages.

Electricity and portable power distribution can potentially be hazardous if it is not used carefully by trained, qualified people. Understanding electric circuits, power distribution, grounding and bonding, and other aspects of powering up audio, video, and lighting systems is the key to providing clean power, tracking down and eliminating noises, hums, and buzzes, and safely revolving issues that can interfere with a live or online presentation.

ETCP Recognized class counts as 12 renewal credits.

Note: While ESA is hosting this training as part of our Event Safety Summit programing, this is not an ESA training and is therefore not eligible for education credit redemption.

About the Instructor — Richard Cadena, ETCP RT/CEE

Richard Cadena is an ETCP Certified Entertainment Electrician and an ETCP Recognized Trainer with 31 years of experience in the entertainment lighting industry. He is the author of:

“Electricity for Entertainment Electricians & Technicians, 2nd Edition”
“Automated Lighting: The Art and Science of Moving Light, 2nd Edition”
“Lighting Design for Modern Houses of Worship”
“Focus on Lighting Technology”

He is also the technical editor for PLASA Media and a columnist for Lighting & Sound America, Lighting & Sound International, and Protocol magazines. As a freelance lighting designer and lighting consultant he has worked on concert tours, television, theatre, motion picture productions, and he has designed dozens of lighting systems for permanent installations. He is a member of IATSE Local 205 in good standing. Current and former clients include Cirque du Soleil, Carnival Cruise Lines, SeaWorld, Saturday Night Live, NBA, IATSE Locals 1, 2, 4, 6, 8, 16, 58, 479, and more.

Lodging

Hotel Rock Lititz is the preferred hotel of the Event Safety Summit program. Click here for details and booking information.

Event Safety Alliance announces the next edition of the Crowd Safety Symposium, prior to the Event Safety Summit. Taking place March 20-21, 2022, this two-day workshop aims to provide an understanding of the four aspects of basic crowd safety and to provide techniques to plan and manage safe pedestrian flows in crowded places during all phases of an event.

ABOUT THE CROWD SAFETY SYMPOSIUM

Festivals, concerts, conferences, graduations, and athletic events all share one common characteristic – they all feature crowds. If your work involves planning to accommodate large groups of people, you need to know how to plan to mitigate these risks and keep your crowds safe. The course aims to provide an understanding of the four aspects of basic crowd safety and to provide techniques to plan and manage safe pedestrian flows in crowded places during all phases of an event including emergencies.

WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES

By the end of the workshop you should be able to:

• Understand the main risks in managing crowds.
• Understand the differences between crowd management and crowd control.
• Describe the phases of crowds and their psychology.
• Conduct calculations for flow rates and density for people in crowded places.
• Identify crowd behaviors in emergency situations and how to manage them.
• Understand how to use non-computer models to plan for crowds.
• Understand human behaviors that affect crowds: Route modeling, Normalcy Bias, Dread Theory, De-individuation and the RAS.

WORKSHOP FEE

Registration for each workshop is $235 for ESA members/$260 for non-members. Capacity for each training is extremely limited to ensure an optimal learning experience, so interested persons are encouraged to register early.

Attendees who have registered for the in-person Event Safety Summit will receive a 15% discount off the cost of their registration. You must be registered for the Summit prior to signing up for this course to receive the discount.

COVID SAFETY

Attendees of this training will be asked to provide proof of full vaccination before entering the event. Additional safety measures may be enacted based on conditions and/or local requirements.

COURSE REVIEWS

“Eric went above and beyond with the information. With all the Special Events we approve in the City of Los Angeles his teaching will certainly be used where needed during the approval process.”
Chief John Benn, Los Angeles Fire Department

“This was a fantastic event. I’m taking a lot of what I learned and applying it immediately to my future events. I only hope you all keep doing this so more people can benefit.”
Mike Hanley, Festival Director

“I have been a road security guy since 1992. I started like most as personal protection and moved into security management , and quite frankly have all but given up on the industry . I feel rejuvenated . Eric and this Symposium was amazing.”
Steve 'Sully' Sullivan, Security Director

The job of the entertainment rigger has become increasingly complicated as the live event industry has grown exponentially over the last three decades. As the loads have become larger, the margin of error has become smaller. Experience alone cannot prepare today’s riggers for the ever expanding challenges faced in the theatres, arenas, studios, festivals, and ballrooms used to produce live entertainment events. Through Entertainment Rigging Sessions you can obtain that necessary education to partner with YOUR experience, allowing you to pursue increased work volume and safer rigging practices.

Delivered by Entertainment Rigging Services’ Ethan Gilson and supported by Columbus McKinnon Entertainment Technology, this two-day course will cover topics ranging from the basics to advanced practices of entertainment rigging. From proper hardware selection and inspection to load calculations and proper workplace safety, the session aims to increase your value within the professional rigging marketplace by helping you to work safer and more efficiently.

This course counts toward 16 renewal credits for ETCP Certified Electricians and ETCP Certified Riggers.

Preparing to take either ETCP rigging exam? Our sessions cover topics that are listed in the content outlines for the ETCP Rigger–Arena and Rigger–Theatre certification exams and may be helpful when studying for a certification examination.

Note: There is an 8 person minimum to conduct this course. Should this number not be met, your registration fee will be refunded in full. This course is not an ESA-delivered program and is not eligible for education credit redemption.

About the Instructor — Ethan Gilson

Ethan Gilson, a graduate of Emerson College (1998, BFA, Design Technology – Lighting), has 25+ years of experience working in the entertainment rigging and lighting industry.  He began his career as an equipment specialist/technician, and, upon completing his degree, took on the role of lighting designer at Advanced Lighting and Production Services, Inc. (ALPS).  As his career developed, Gilson distinguished himself as a rigging specialist—designing rigging systems for portable and permanent installations.  Today, he is the owner of Entertainment Rigging Services LLC, a company that specializes in entertainment rigging inspections, training, & design. Gilson has worked in venues of diverse size and function including, but not limited to: hotel ballrooms, Las Vegas convention centers and arenas, New York theatres, and outdoor festivals.

Gilson has been inspecting theaters and arenas of all sizes throughout the United States since 2006.  In 2005, he received one of the first certificates granted by the ETCP in Arena and Theatre Rigging  (Cert. # 0048).  Gilson has established himself as an authority in the field, and since 2014, has served as an ETCP Rigging Certification Subject Matter Expert, a position which includes designing questions for certification exams.  Gilson’s national reputation has lead him to serve as chair to several ESTA (Entertainment Services and Technology Association) task groups, whose goals are to establish ANSI standards for safety in the industry in the areas of fall arrest and suspended rigging. Gilson is OSHA 10 certified (Cert. # 002371128). He continues his own education through trainings such as: ETC factory trained installation/technician of Prodigy Hoists, Tomcat U, Mountain Productions Hoist School. 

In 2012, Gilson became an ETCP Recognized Trainer and launched Entertainment Rigging Sessions to prepare today’s riggers for the industry’s explosive growth and to promote safety standards throughout it. These sessions are recognized by the ETCP as qualifying instruction for certification/re-certification. Gilson is a member of the Event Safety Alliance and its Safety Summit Core Development Committee, whose goal is to coordinate with the ETCP to promote safety, training, and certification throughout the industry.  Gilson has partnered with manufacturers such as Total Structures, the annual LDI trade show, the Event Safety Alliance, various colleges/universities, unions, and local manufacturers to provide educational rigging sessions, tailoring sessions to meet the needs of each class.  Gilson continues to stay abreast of the latest technology and advances in the industry, sharing this knowledge with his students. Recently, Vectorworks has requested Gilson’s services to speak, as a user, with distributors about their new Braceworks software.

Lodging

Hotel Rock Lititz is the preferred hotel of the Event Safety Summit program. Click here for details and booking information.

Road Ready: Preparing For Your First Tour is a free, two-day educational program designed to prepare early-stage & transitioning professionals for a successful career in live event touring. Presented by ESA, Show Makers, and Touring Career Workshop these sessions deliver practical insights on how to land and thrive in your first road job; starting from the initial interest through the final night of the tour. 

Guided by a diverse collection of experienced touring professionals, attendees will get a unique view of what life on the road is truly like, how to prepare for it, and how to excel while on the job. Participants will also learn practical skills to keep themselves and others safe, healthy, and financially secure for life on and off the road. 

CONFERENCE SESSIONS (All times CDT)

Thursday, July 15

• So You Want To Be A Roadie? [10:00 AM - 10:45 AM] Our first session is an intro into the expectations vs. reality of touring, the ups & downs of the lifestyle, and an overview of roles + responsibilities on a typical road crew.

• Getting the Gig [11:00 AM - 11:45 AM] Learn where to find job opportunities, how to make the transition into life on the road, & how to understand the skills required. This explores both psychological & physical preparation for your first gig.

• Money Talks [12:30 PM - 1:15 PM] Discover the financial life of a touring professional, including practice in rate negotiation, saving, investment, insurance needs, and how these skills secure a strong financial future for anyone on the road.

• Lobby Call [1:30 PM - 2:15 PM] It’s time to prepare to head out on tour. Learn how to get your personal, mental, practical, & financial house in order as well as discover new tips, tricks, and indispensable kit for on the road.

Friday, July 16

• Rolling Out [10:00 AM - 10:45 AM] Dive into the strengths of being a team player & how to manage different personalities in your crew. This is a practical session on navigating cultural differences as well as the do’s and don’t’s of working as part of a tour.

• Stayin’ Alive. [11:00 AM - 11:45 AM] Discover your role in safety culture at events as well as your legal duty of care. This session covers core event safety hazards & controls, recommended training, and prepares you for situational awareness & assessing personal risk at any gig.

• Check Your Head [12:30 PM - 1:15 PM] Get industry advice for how to mentally prepare to go out on the road while maintaining balance in unfamiliar situations. This will explore the warning signs of stress and addiction, as well as how to successfully transition back to home life after the tour.

• Until Next Time [1:30 PM - 2:15 PM] Our final session focuses on how to mentally cope with being off the road after a tour as well as addressing financial preparedness for down time at home.

REGISTRATION

Pre-registration for ROAD READY is now closed. Walk-ups are welcome.

(Interested in attending Summer NAMM? Learn how receive complimentary access to the show courtesy of our friends at NAMM).

Note: This is an in-person event. Streaming is not available at this time.

Registration is now open for the Event Safety Alliance’s annual Event Safety Summit, taking place Wednesday, November 20 – Friday, November 22, 2019 at Rock Lititz in Lititz, Pennsylvania.

“Looking Deeper”

All reasonable event professionals want their shows to be safe.  But the meaning of “safe” varies with one’s role, level of experience, and insight about the event’s ultimate goals.  This year’s Event Safety Summit looks deeper at the unique challenges faced by event technicians, managers, and organizers and explores how their individual safety responsibilities influence the overall event environment.

Featuring nearly 30 presentations, workshops, and networking opportunities this year’s Summit makes it easier than ever for attendees to curate a program that fits their individual interests and needs.

The job of the entertainment rigger has become increasingly complicated as the live event industry has grown exponentially over the last three decades. As the loads have become larger, the margin of error has become smaller. Experience alone cannot prepare today’s riggers for the ever expanding challenges faced in the theatres, arenas, studios, festivals, and ballrooms used to produce live entertainment events. Through Entertainment Rigging Sessions you can obtain that necessary education to partner with YOUR experience, allowing you to pursue increased work volume and safer rigging practices.

Delivered by Entertainment Rigging Services’ Ethan Gilson and supported by Columbus McKinnon Entertainment Technology, this two-day course will cover topics ranging from the basics to advanced practices of entertainment rigging. From proper hardware selection and inspection to load calculations and proper workplace safety, the session aims to increase your value within the professional rigging marketplace by helping you to work safer and more efficiently.

This course counts toward 16 renewal credits for ETCP Certified Electricians and ETCP Certified Riggers.

Preparing to take either ETCP rigging exam? Our sessions cover topics that are listed in the content outlines for the ETCP Rigger–Arena and Rigger–Theatre certification exams and may be helpful when studying for a certification examination.

Note: There is an 8 person minimum to conduct this course. Should this number not be met, your registration fee will be refunded in full.

Registration

ESA Members – $450
Non-Members – $475

Lunch will be provided both days.

Note: While ESA is hosting this training as part of our Event Safety Summit programing, this is not an ESA training and is therefore not eligible for education credit redemption.

About the Instructor — Ethan Gilson

Ethan Gilson, a graduate of Emerson College (1998, BFA, Design Technology – Lighting), has 25+ years of experience working in the entertainment rigging and lighting industry.  He began his career as an equipment specialist/technician, and, upon completing his degree, took on the role of lighting designer at Advanced Lighting and Production Services, Inc. (ALPS).  As his career developed, Gilson distinguished himself as a rigging specialist—designing rigging systems for portable and permanent installations.  Today, he is the owner of Entertainment Rigging Services LLC, a company that specializes in entertainment rigging inspections, training, & design. Gilson has worked in venues of diverse size and function including, but not limited to: hotel ballrooms, Las Vegas convention centers and arenas, New York theatres, and outdoor festivals.

Gilson has been inspecting theaters and arenas of all sizes throughout the United States since 2006.  In 2005, he received one of the first certificates granted by the ETCP in Arena and Theatre Rigging  (Cert. # 0048).  Gilson has established himself as an authority in the field, and since 2014, has served as an ETCP Rigging Certification Subject Matter Expert, a position which includes designing questions for certification exams.  Gilson’s national reputation has lead him to serve as chair to several ESTA (Entertainment Services and Technology Association) task groups, whose goals are to establish ANSI standards for safety in the industry in the areas of fall arrest and suspended rigging. Gilson is OSHA 10 certified (Cert. # 002371128). He continues his own education through trainings such as: ETC factory trained installation/technician of Prodigy Hoists, Tomcat U, Mountain Productions Hoist School. 

In 2012, Gilson became an ETCP Recognized Trainer and launched Entertainment Rigging Sessions to prepare today’s riggers for the industry’s explosive growth and to promote safety standards throughout it. These sessions are recognized by the ETCP as qualifying instruction for certification/re-certification. Gilson is a member of the Event Safety Alliance and its Safety Summit Core Development Committee, whose goal is to coordinate with the ETCP to promote safety, training, and certification throughout the industry.  Gilson has partnered with manufacturers such as Total Structures, the annual LDI trade show, the Event Safety Alliance, various colleges/universities, unions, and local manufacturers to provide educational rigging sessions, tailoring sessions to meet the needs of each class.  Gilson continues to stay abreast of the latest technology and advances in the industry, sharing this knowledge with his students. Recently, Vectorworks has requested Gilson’s services to speak, as a user, with distributors about their new Braceworks software.

Lodging

Hotel Rock Lititz is the preferred hotel of the Event Safety Summit program. Click here for details and booking information.

Event Safety Alliance announces the return of the Crowd Safety Symposium, taking place November 18-19, 2019 at Rock Lititz in Lititz, Pennsylvania. This two-day workshop aims to provide an understanding of the four aspects of basic crowd safety and to provide techniques to plan and manage safe pedestrian flows in crowded places during all phases of an event. It is the first of several supplementary paid learning opportunities to be offered prior to this year’s Event Safety Summit.

ABOUT THE CROWD SAFETY SYMPOSIUM

Festivals, concerts, conferences, graduations, and athletic events all share one common characteristic – they all feature crowds. If your work involves planning to accommodate large groups of people, you need to know how to plan to mitigate these risks and keep your crowds safe. The course aims to provide an understanding of the four aspects of basic crowd safety and to provide techniques to plan and manage safe pedestrian flows in crowded places during all phases of an event including emergencies.

WORKSHOP OBJECTIVES

By the end of the workshop you should be able to:

• Understand the main risks in managing crowds.
• Understand the differences between crowd management and crowd control.
• Describe the phases of crowds and their psychology.
• Conduct calculations for flow rates and density for people in crowded places.
• Identify crowd behaviors in emergency situations and how to manage them.
• Understand how to use non-computer models to plan for crowds.
• Understand human behaviors that affect crowds: Route modeling, Normalcy Bias, Dread Theory, De-individuation and the RAS.

WORKSHOP FEE

Registration for each workshop is $235 for ESA members/$260 for non-members. Capacity for each training is extremely limited to ensure an optimal learning experience, so interested persons are encouraged to register early.

COURSE REVIEWS

“Eric went above and beyond with the information. With all the Special Events we approve in the City of Los Angeles his teaching will certainly be used where needed during the approval process.”
Chief John Benn, Los Angeles Fire Department

“This was a fantastic event. I’m taking a lot of what I learned and applying it immediately to my future events. I only hope you all keep doing this so more people can benefit.”
Mike Hanley, Festival Director

“I have been a road security guy since 1992. I started like most as personal protection and moved into security management , and quite frankly have all but given up on the industry . I feel rejuvenated . Eric and this Symposium was amazing.”
Steve 'Sully' Sullivan, Security Director