Stage Barrier 101: The Basics of Arena Stage Barrier
For set carpenters working arena tours, an extra job you might find yourself being involved in, is setting up and dismantling barrier. It requires precision, teamwork, and coordination with multiple departments. While the process might seem straightforward at first glance, there are plenty of nuances to consider.
This blog covers the essential components of a barrier system, tips for assembly and disassembly, and some of the common challenges you'll encounter.
Components of a Barrier System
Before you begin assembling barrier, it’s important to familiarize yourself with its various components.
Most barrier setups include:
Straight Sections: These are the standard pieces, usually about a meter wide, used to create the main structure of the barrier.
Curved Sections: These allow you to adjust the layout. They may be fixed at 45-degree angles or adjustable to create custom turns.
Specialized Sections: These include pieces with cable pass-throughs or other functions.
Gates: Both single and double gates are included for personnel access.
Floor Mats: Black rubber mats that go under the barrier to prevent sliding.
Bolts and Tools: Used to secure sections together and stored in dedicated cases when not in use.
Assembling the Barrier
Barrier assembly begins by unloading the necessary pieces and placing them roughly where they’ll go.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
Positioning: Place each section near its final location, but don’t secure anything until the layout is finalized.
Connecting Sections: Align the pins on the sections, ensuring they slot into the corresponding holes. Once aligned, gently push the sections together.
Bolting Together: Secure the sections with bolts. Most setups use two bolts (top and bottom), though you might see a third bolt hole at the back. While some suppliers back their barrier with a single bolt connection, it's always safer to use at least two.
Adjusting the Layout: If you’re unsure of the layout, hold off on bolting the sections until everything is in place. This allows for easier adjustments without dismantling sections.
Taping the Cracks: Once the barrier is bolted together, use small pieces of grey gaffer tape to cover the cracks between sections. This prevents fingers, objects, or debris from getting caught.
Working with Other Departments
Barrier setup isn’t just about following a stage plan—it involves collaboration with multiple departments to meet everyone’s needs.
Arena Representatives: Ensure the barrier doesn’t encroach too much on the audience’s standing area
Health and Safety Teams: Maintain a clear walkway between the stage and the barrier for emergency access.
Security Teams: Provide enough space for both tour and venue security to operate effectively.
To avoid delays, it’s a good idea to gather these representatives before starting the build. Jointly agreeing on the setup reduces the chances of having to make changes mid-build, saving time and effort.
Measuring the Barrier Distance
Some venues have strict requirements for the distance between the stage and the barrier. Always measure from the first obstacle on the venue floor—not the stage itself. For example, if there’s a camera mount, the distance must account for that. This ensures compliance with safety standards and avoids complications during inspections.
Dismantling and Packing Barrier
When the show ends, dismantling the barrier can be approached in different ways:
Piece-by-Piece Method: Take apart each section individually and load it into the carts immediately. This avoids revisiting the job later and ensures everything is packed securely.
Grouped Sections Method: Break the barrier into manageable sections and move them aside quickly. This method can expedite rolling the stage out but may require additional time to sort pieces later.
You can also organize the carts based on:
Type of Pieces: Group straight sections, curves, and specialized pieces together.
Build Order: If the barrier layout will remain consistent across venues, organize the carts so pieces are loaded in the order you’ll need them.
Tips and Tricks
Bolt Direction: Insert bolts in the same direction for easier removal during loadout.
Coordination: Communicate with other departments to avoid conflicts and delays.
Efficiency: Develop a system that works for your team and stick to it—it’ll save time and effort in the long run.
Setting up and dismantling barrier isn’t always an easy task. By understanding the components, coordinating with departments, and maintaining an organized system, you’ll ensure the process runs smoothly, show after show. Approach it with care and professionalism, and you’ll be one step closer to a seamless show day.
