Safety Policy

 

APPROACH TO SAFETY

  • Safety is the number one priority of Aerial Dance Chicago (ADC).

  • Safety is the responsibility of everyone taking part in any activity at ADC.

  • All participants must comply with this safety policy.

  • UNDERSTAND OUR VISION AND MISSION  - ADC is a dance company and does not exist to promote or highlight the element of danger or dare-devil approach to aerial work.

  • ADC conducts rig and equipment safety checks once per month.

  • ADC provides safety training for staff and artists.

MAXIMUM LOADS

  • A maximum of 2 individuals are allowed on any one apparatus at a time.

  • A maximum of 2 individuals are allowed on any one rig bar at a time.

  • A maximum of 1 individual per rig bar is allowed while practicing dynamic movements.

EQUIPMENT AND USE OF AERIAL APPARATUS

  • All staff must follow the standard rigging procedures.

  • Thick mats are required beneath aerial equipment in all classes.

 

RESTRICTIONS

  • ADC does not work at extreme heights without safety harnesses (above 18’).

  • Due to increased risk, aerial work involving height or speed are for advanced and professional level students/dancers only.

  • Due to increased risk, aerial work involving dynamic or descending motions are for advanced and professional level classes only.

  • Dynamic and descending movements must be approved by the Artistic Director prior to teaching these movements in classes or rehearsals.

RIGGING FOR CLASS

  • Students must remain behind the red lines until ALL rigging set up or rigging strike is complete.

  • Check that all four points of the ladder are securely on the floor before climbing.

  • Do not allow students to hold any part of the apparatus during rig set up or strike.

  • Check each Figure 8 and do not rig if it shows any sign of damage.

  • Never drop rigging hardware. If you drop it, replace immediately and inform ADC.

 

PARTICIPANT APPROACH & LESSON PLANNING

  • Practice confidently while still appreciating the inherent risks of aerial dance work.

  • Approach all lessons methodically, and encourage a focused atmosphere during class/rehearsals.

  • Lessons and curriculum should follow progressions and break down movements into short tasks.

  • Focus on the mastery of good body control and fluid motions that are gentle on the body.

  • Be aware and respect current individual ability level of each of your students/dancers.

  • Teach all skills at a low level and assure students/dancers have mastered the skill before adding more height.

  • Give students strategies for practicing safely and educate them about safest use of the aerial apparatus you are teaching.

  • Do not allow participants to perform skills in which they appear to be out of control.

 

ACCIDENT MANAGEMENT & INJURIES

  • Injured or ill students/dancers are NOT ALLOWED to participate in class/rehearsals.

  • Be aware of how to access emergency contact numbers in case of an accident or illness.

  • Be prepared to administer first aid in the case of an accident.

  • Notify an ADC Director immediately if an accident or injury occurs during class or rehearsal.

  • All accidents/injuries must be reported using the ADC Incident Report Form.