In the November 1987 issue of GEM, we included an article on the
safety guidelines followed by the Port Phillip Historical Society
in Australia. In that article we requested our readers’
contributions regarding show safety. This response was
submitted by Ken Robison, 20531 Black Rd., Los Gatos, CA
95030.
DISPLAY ASPECTS
REQUIRED:
A. Double rope stanchions separating engines from public by
a minimum of four (4) feet. B. Fire extinguisher close at
hand. C. Flammables stored at least six (6) feet away from
engines in closed containers. D. NO RUNNING ENGINES SHALL BE
LEFT UNATTENDED. E. Person attending engines must be in
control at all times. F. At least three (3) feet clear space
between individual engines. G. No consumption of any alcoholic
beverage while inside any roped-off display area or while operating
any equipment.
DESIRED:
A. Clutter-free exhibit space. B. Exhaust directed up
or away from viewing public. C. Watchful eyes – constant
awareness. D. No belts in line with viewing area.
E. FIRST AID KIT.
SETUP ASPECTS
Establishing requirements for this aspect of our activity is
nearly impossible, yet this is where some of the greatest danger
lies in terms of injury to ourselves and to our friends. A few
requirements are established below- extreme caution is urged-take
nothing for granted.
REQUIRED:
A. Only live owners or authorized operators will operate fork
lifts. B. Operator is King-follow his instructions.
DESIRED:
A. Stay well away from lift-to side always. B. Look
in direction of movement. C. Be sure equipment is securely on
forks. D. Do nothing to require fork operator to have to stop
suddenly. E. Do everything gently, in slow motion.
F. Concentrate-don’t talk with friends while loading or
unloading- it will only take a few minutes.
No set of rules, regulations, or cautions can prevent disaster.
Our individual awareness and following both required and desired
guidelines and taking the hazards seriously will do the most for
our safety and the safety of the public.
DISPLAY REQUIREMENTS MINIMUM STANDARDS
NOTES:
1. Side and rear barriers not required unless there is
public access. 2. Easy in/out barrier gate between two
adjacent displays-ropes crossed loosely over adjacent display.
3. Not required to separate individual adjoining
displays.