The programme, ‘’A Test Is Worth A Thousand Words,’ gives theatres in the US the information and support they need to monitor and test all types of fog, including glycol/glycerin, mineral oil, dry ice/liquid CO2 and liquid nitrogen fogs. Venues can then compare results to accepted standards and guidelines and advise performers and crew members that the theatre monitors and tests its fog, making available the test results. "Theatres are in a difficult position because audiences want special effects, but performers and crew sometimes express concerns about theatrical fog," explains Lori Rubinstein, ESTA executive director. "There are a number of industry standards and guidelines - including OSHA standards and guidelines from the Actors’ Equity Association/League of American Theatres and Producers study - that set limits on the amount of smoke and fog that can be used on stages. We expect that if theatres demonstrate that they are using fog according to these standards and guidelines for each individual production, it will address any remaining concerns about these effects."
Exposure limits and usage guidelines set forth in the Actors’ Equity/League study now are written into all Equity contracts for Broadway and First Class Touring productions. In releasing the study’s results, Equity noted: "It is expected that the new exposure limits and usage guidelines will become the universal standard for the use of theatrical smoke on all stages presenting live theatre in the United States and internationally."
"Now that there are acceptable limits, and we can test to them and say that we meet them, this can be very reassuring," says Eddie Kramer, an electrician at Radio City Music Hall. "It makes sense to test for any chemical products our employees are exposed to," adds Tom Briggs, director of safety, Madison Square Garden. "From what I’ve seen, Local 1 stagehands are very familiar with the Actors’ Equity guidelines. In fact, they gave them to me."
Theatres or theatrical organizations interested in participating in the programme or learning more should contact Lori Rubinstein or Karl G. Ruling at the e-mail address below.
(Lee Baldock)
