Pod Use on the Stages

Follow procedures governing the use of overhead grip and lighting pods on the sound stage.

Overview

The sound stages are equipped with motorized lighting and grip pods that may be used to rig overhead equipment during production. Use of the pods must be requested and approved by the Head of Set Operations, and all pod operations must follow established safety procedures and operational guidelines.

Because the pods involve suspended equipment, moving overhead systems, electrical infrastructure, and motorized operation, improper use can create serious risks for both personnel and facilities. Clear operating procedures help ensure that equipment is rigged safely, pod movements are communicated properly, and productions maintain safe working conditions whenever overhead systems are in use.

Policies

Use of the pods must be requested and approved in advance by the Head of Set Operations. If approved, the following protocols must be observed:

  • Proper hardware must be used for the installation of grip and lighting equipment. All cables and gels must be safely and solidly affixed prior to raising a pod.
  • Nobody may stand under a moving pod.
  • If the operator cannot see the pod or something it might hit, another student must stand where they can see the pod, the possible obstruction, and the operator, in order to assist and guide the operator.
  • The operator must let everyone on stage know of pod movements by speaking loudly enough to be heard by all on the stage, for example: “Pod #1 coming down!”
  • The operator or assisting student must make sure the cables are feeding in or out of the baskets properly, and that the winch cables are moving smoothly into the winch drum groove. If there is any suspicion that a pod may not be moving in a level fashion, or is laboring the motor as it moves, the operator must stop the pod immediately and summon the stage supervisor or set operations manager.
  • The pods are designed to stop 3 feet from the floor and 6 feet from the grid (ceiling). If a pod moves beyond these stops, notify the Head of Set Operations immediately.

Use of the pods for purposes other than hanging grip and lighting equipment requires approval of the Head of Set Operations at the initial stage reservation.