Lighting: Safe Working Procedure

Owned by Steven Smith (Unlicensed)
Last updated: Dec 19, 2023 by Murray Basham

Safe Working Procedure: Step-by-Step

Read the Introduction to Lighting safety and follow this procedure for the safe use of location lights.

If you are using more than 3 Aputure LS60X lights on a Portable Power Block, you will need to calculate the total power consumed by lights and check it is with in the 2400 watt limits of the available mains power supply.

  • Set up the light stands with the legs as wide as possible for maximum stability.
  • Place a sand bag on one or more legs for added stability and safety.
  • Check each light for defects and check it has a current Curtin safety tag.
  • Attach the light to the stand, open barn doors.
  • Check the light is not upside down, as it can pivot on its bracket.
  • Check the light, Power Adaptor and barn doors are securely fitted with no risk of falling.
  • Familiarise yourself with the different Light, either by attending a Workshop on it or by looking at Curtin Wiki. Where you are now.
  • Please undo any plugs to do with its operation carefully. 
  • Check the light is safe distance from flammable objects such as ceiling, curtains or wall paper.  As a general guide allow 1 meter above the light and 2 meters in front.
  • Check the supplied Portable Power Block has a current Curtin safety tag.
  • Plug the Portable Power Block directly into a wall socket.
  • Check the test function of the Portable Power Block and reset the circuit breaker.
  • Untangle extension cables and check for current Curtin safety tag, lay the cable on floor from portable power block to light stand, leave excess cable under base of light stand.
  • Check cables for tripping risk and secure with tape or cable covers where required.
  • Avoid cables in walkways or in the way of opening doors.
  • Connect each extension cord to the Portable Power Block and to its light.
  • Check for correct set up before switching on power  at the Portable Power Block.
  • Switch on the power for each light and observe its correct function.

Be aware of possible electrical faults, smoke, arcing or flickering lights, this may be a sign of malfunction and possible danger, In case of any problems or suspected fault, switch off the power at the Portable Power Block.

  • If the Portable Power Block shuts down by its RCD cut out, this is a sign of a detected electrical fault, ask for technical support to identify the fault before using the equipment.
  • Do not use the light if you suspect there is a fault, remove the light from service and identify it as faulty and return it to the store for repair.

Adjust the lights as required for your particular shooting requirements

  • Switch off a light before moving the stand or adjusting the height.
  • Be aware when using any of the Lights from MCASI, use wooden pegs to attach the GEL coloured filters to the Barn Doors.
  • Do NOT USE any other form of Gel filters. Please see the MCASI Store staff for what you require.