Safety Alert - Operation Safe Hands

Dear Showies,

The SHS Joint Safety Committee has recently completed a thorough review of past safety committee minutes and identified the main types of injuries affecting Show Support Crew Members. These tend to fall into two key categories:

⦁ Back strains and other back injuries

⦁ Crushing injuries to fingers and hands

A few years back, we had several cutting injuries from the careless and inappropriate use of knives. That changed in December 2022 when we launched the “Use Klever Kutters Instead of Knives” campaign. Since then—and without wanting to tempt fate—we’re stoked to report not a single cutting incident.

More recently, we rolled out the “Don’t Try to Be a Hero When Lifting” campaign to tackle back injuries. This included a quiz to check understanding on important points: don’t underestimate back strains, rest and switch to light duties after any “twinge” or “tweak,” never lift heavy items alone, and always lift correctly and within safe limits. We’re pleased to see the message taking hold—Crew Members are now quoting it to each other in trucks and on gigs across Australia.

Now, it’s time to focus on the next big one: hand and finger injuries. To address this, we’re launching “Operation Safe Hands.”

Always Ask Yourself: “Where Are Your Hands?”

This is about thinking ahead—knowing exactly where your hands will be before you lift an item.

For example:

⦁ Carrying something through a doorway with two people? Position your hands end-to-end so they’ll clear the doorframe.

⦁ Hands on the sides? You risk jamming them between the gear and the frame.

This logic applies to every lift—consider the path you’ll take and how you’ll set the item down. Never grab and go, only to find you can’t remove your hands safely when it’s time to set the item down.

If Your Hand Is About to Get Caught:

1. Speak up immediately—let your lifting partner(s) know.

2. Be ready to drop the item as close to the ground as safely possible.

3. Drop it before your hand gets trapped.

4. Count down loudly so everyone can release together: “Three, two, one, drop!”

Your Safety Comes First

Equipment can be repaired or replaced—you can’t be. We want zero injuries onsite. That means staying alert and ready to pull your hands clear at a moment’s notice.

Senior crew should discuss safe techniques with junior crew, and juniors should ask questions. Nearly all hand and finger injuries can be avoided with awareness, planning and proper communication.

The same goes for all body parts—feet, hands, anything—keep them clear when lifting, carrying or setting down equipment. In tricky situations, coordinate with your team and be prepared to safely drop the load if that is the only way to prevent an injury.

The good news? You absolutely can work long-term in crewing without ever injuring your fingers or hands—provided you follow these practices every time.

Regards,

SHS Joint Safety Committee

Safety Alert – Operation Safe Hands

Always Ask Yourself: “Where Are Your Hands?”

If Your Hand Is About to Get Caught:

Your Safety Comes First

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