At events, trip hazards are one of the most common forms of injury
. Luckily there have been few of the these type injuries at outdoor movie events but given the increasing popularity of outdoor movie events and the inflatable screen, it is a good time for the industry to look at its potential hazards and respond accordingly. Given the use of audio and power cabling at outdoor movie events, it is critical that this hazard be managed in order to reduce the risk of injury. It is one of the most basic things but often overlooked by outdoor movie operators. The bottom line is that no cabling should run through the area in which an audience is without being covered by a mat or placed in cable tray. In any case, exposure to the risk of injury and or liability should be minimized at every opportunity. It is best practice to cover anything that may be a trip hazard. Many companies online sell inexpensive outdoor rubber matting in 50' rolls. Look for heavier matting with grooves or a pattern in it. These rolls may be sliced lengthwise with a utility knife to yield 100' of cover at reasonable cost. These can be used to cover power lines coming from a generator or panel. Audio cables should be routed around the center of the audience where possible or covered. Bottom anchor tether lines coming from an AIRSCREEN inflatable movie screen (or a knockoff of the original AIRSCREEN design) should lie flat on the ground and not be tensioned in a way that they rise an inch or two off the ground. What are other trip hazards and how do we mitigate them? Comment on our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/#!/OutdoorMovies.InflatableScreens and share how you minimize trip hazards on your outdoor movie site.
These bits of advice may seem completely common sense but you would very surprised at how often they are not followed. Public safety is paramount, so act in a responsible and conservative manner. Staying uninjured and comfortable through the season is our wish for you and your audience from Outdoor Movies!