Profession pyrotechnician

Pyrotechnicians control the pyrotechnical elements of a performance based on the artistic or creative concept, in interaction with the performers. Their work is influenced by and influences the results of other operators. Therefore, the operators work closely together with the designers, operators and performers. Pyrotechnicians prepare the pyrotechnics, supervise the setup, steer the technical crew, program the equipment and operate the pyro system. The use of explosive and combustible material close to performers and audience makes this a high risk occupation.  

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Personality Type

Skills

  • Operate pyrotechnical control

    Take the necessary steps to operate pyrotechnical effects during a performance.

  • Work ergonomically

    Apply ergonomy principles in the organisation of the workplace while manually handling equipment and materials.

  • Store pyrotechnical materials

    Safely store materials used for pyrotechnical stage effects.

  • Provide first aid

    Administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation or first aid in order to provide help to a sick or injured person until they receive more complete medical treatment.

  • Plan pyrotechnical effects

    Plan the pyrotechnical effects for a performance. Develop an artistic vision into a plan, taking safety into account.

  • Build pyrotechnical devices

    Build devices needed for the pyrotechnical effects in a performance.

  • React to emergency situations in a live performance environment

    Assess and react to an emergency (fire, threat, accident or another calamity), alerting emergency services and taking appropriate measures to safeguard or evacuate workers, participants, visitors or audience according to the established procedures.

  • Work safely with mobile electrical systems under supervision

    Take the necessary precautions while providing temporary power distribution for performance and art facility purposes under supervision.

  • Instruct on set up of equipment

    Instruct others on how to properly and safely set up equipment according to specifications and regulations.

  • Work safely with pyrotechnical materials in a performance environment

    Take necessary precautions while preparing, transporting, storing, installing and operating pyrotechnical materials and explosives of class T1 and T2.

  • Promote health and safety

    Promote the importance of a safe working environment. Coach and support staff to participate actively in the continuous development of a safe working environment.

  • Set up pyrotechnical equipment

    Make sure the pyrotechnic equipment for a performance is set up and ready for operation.

  • Manage consumables stock

    Manage and monitor consumables stock to ensure that the production demands and deadlines can be met at all times.

  • Write risk assessment on performing arts production

    Assess risks, propose improvements and describe measures to be taken on a production level in performing arts.

  • Test pyrotechnical effects

    Test pyrotechnical effects before a performance to make sure they work smoothly and safely.

  • Prevent fire in a performance environment

    Take steps to prevent fire in a performance environment. Make sure the space complies with fire safety rules, with sprinklers and fire extinguishers installed where necessary. Make sure staff are aware of fire prevention measures.

  • Use personal protection equipment

    Make use of protection equipment according to training, instruction and manuals. Inspect the equipment and use it consistently.

  • Follow safety procedures when working at heights

    Take necessary precautions and follow a set of measures that assess, prevent and tackle risks when working at a high distance from the ground. Prevent endangering people working under these structures and avoid falls from ladders, mobile scaffolding, fixed working bridges, single person lifts etc. since they may cause fatalities or major injuries.

  • Work safely with chemicals

    Take the necessary precautions for storing, using and disposing chemical products.

  • Perform first fire intervention

    Intervene in the case of a fire in order to extinguish the fire or limit the effects pending the arrival of emergency services according to training and procedures.

  • Work with respect for own safety

    Apply the safety rules according to training and instruction and based on a solid understanding of the prevention measures and risks to your own personal health and safety.

  • Obtain pyrotechnic permits

    Obtain the appropriate administrative permits and licences for use and transport of pyrotechnics and weapons.

  • Manage technical resources stock

    Manage and monitor technical resources stock to ensure that production demands and deadlines can be met at all times.

Optional knowledge and skills

de-rig electronic equipment pack electronic equipment keep up with trends translate artistic concepts to technical designs coordinate purchasing activities adapt existing designs to changed circumstances adapt artistic plan to location support a designer in the developing process ensure safety of mobile electrical systems document safety actions interpret artistic intentions adapt to artists' creative demands

Source: Sisyphus ODB