Stagehands and OSHA - no hardhats?

[morosco]

Posted: 8/20/12 at 9:37am

I've always been puzzled as to why OSHA doesn't require stagehands to wear hardhats at most venues. I'm not suggesting that one be worn during performances, I mean during load in and load out where there is a high level of danger looming overhead.

[ArtMan]

Posted: 8/20/12 at 10:10am

My field is risk management, primarily in construction. I teach companies how to have a safe work place, among other things. You would be suprised of the many out there who don't wear hardhats or other protective gear, in environments that it is even Osha required. If the Union wanted their people to wear hardhats, they could require it, even without OSHA's input. I would suspect, unfortunately, many would not wear it. But you are correct, a hardhat is generally required if work is being done overhead.