Application
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to plot, record, modify and operate standard lighting cues on lighting consoles typically used in small-scale productions and events.
At this level, individuals are required to use some discretion and judgement and operate under broad supervision within an established framework of plans and procedures.
No licensing, legislative or certification requirements apply to this unit at the time of publication.
Elements and Performance Criteria
Elements Elements describe the essential outcomes. | Performance Criteria Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element. |
1. Prepare for lighting operations | 1.1 In consultation with relevant personnel, clarify scope of own role in lighting operations 1.2 Ensure that working area is clear and properly illuminated, that relevant documentation is easily accessible, and that communication equipment is ready for use 1.3 Power up dimmers, control desk and control desk peripherals using safe work practices 1.4 Perform lamp checks and test functionality and safety of venue lighting 1.5 Test lights and accessories and other lighting elements to ensure all items are in working order |
2. Plot and operate lighting cues | 2.1 Test line of sight needed for visual cues for feasibility during performance 2.2 Follow standard procedures to record cues in line with instructions and within agreed timeframes 2.3 Play and time groups and sub-groups of recorded cues in correct sequence 2.4 Document recorded lighting cues in an appropriate format and make a hard or electronic backup copy of recorded information 2.5 Modify cues according to instructions and update documentation 2.6 Establish suitable backup lighting states to be used if recorded cues fail to operate 2.7 Check channel inputs and outputs for continuity and patching 2.8 Action cues during shows in line with directions and production requirements |
3. Conduct basic troubleshooting | 3.1 Identify problems with equipment promptly and take appropriate action, or refer to relevant personnel as required 3.2 Assess the need for remedial action, taking into consideration safety issues and the need for minimal disruption to performances 3.3 Follow manufacturer’s diagnostic and remedial procedures as required 3.4 Liaise with relevant personnel to identify backup alternatives if faults cannot be rectified before next production deadline |
4. Complete post-show procedures | 4.1 Seek clearance to execute power down and disassemble equipment safely 4.2 Pack and store equipment and accessories according to safety regulations and production requirements 4.3 Check hired equipment against inventory before packing and report lost or damaged equipment to relevant personnel 4.4 Pack lighting equipment for transit as required 4.5 Clean work environment after use and restore environment to previous condition 4.6 Seek feedback from relevant personnel on own work performance and note areas for improvement |
Evidence of Performance
Evidence of the ability to:
set up a lighting desk for operation during live performances
record and operate standard lighting cues for at least two different shows
use industry terminology correctly and observe protocols relevant to lighting operations
work collaboratively.
Note: If a specific volume or frequency is not stated, then evidence must be provided for each of the above points at least once.
Evidence of Knowledge
To complete the unit requirements the individual must:
explain how a range of controls on standard lighting consoles function
describe the following features and operations (optical and mechanical) of the main types of lanterns used for theatrical lighting:
flood
fresnel
lantern accessories
parabolic aluminised reflector (PAR) lamps
pebble convex (PC) lanterns
profile
explain the difference between in and out times in the context of recording and operating standard lighting cues
describe digital multiplexing (DMX) distribution techniques, including allocation of channels on control desks
describe safe electrical work practices in the context of lighting operations
provide examples of variations in lighting terminology used for the same function on different control desks.
Assessment Conditions
Assessment must be conducted in a safe environment where evidence gathered demonstrates consistent performance of typical activities experienced in creative arts industry environments. The assessment environment must include access to performances where basic lighting equipment and accessories are used.
Assessors of this unit must satisfy the requirements for assessors in applicable vocational educational and training legislation, frameworks and/or standards.
Foundation Skills
This section describes language, literacy, numeracy and employment skills incorporated in the performance criteria that are required for competent performance.
Skill | Performance Criteria | Description |
Learning | 4.6 | Seeks the views of others to identify ways to improve own performance |
Reading | 3.3, 4.3 | Interprets service documentation and manuals |
Writing | 2.4, 2.5, 4.6 | Completes documentation in relation to plotting and operating lighting cues |
Oral communication | 1.1, 2.8, 3.1, 3.4, 4.3, 4.6 | Obtains information by listening and questioning |
Numeracy | 2.3 | Completes simple mathematical calculations and recalls numbers for channel selection on lighting desks |
Navigate the world of work | 1.2, 3.1, 4.1, 4.2, 4.5 | Follows workplace protocols and safety procedures Understands and completes main tasks and responsibilities, within the boundaries of own role |
Interact with others | 1.1, 2.8, 3.1, 3.4, 4.3, 4.6 | Works collaboratively with those involved in staging shows or events |
Get the work done | 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 2.8, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 4.1, 4.2, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5 | Adopts a methodical and logical approach to completing basic lighting tasks Meets work deadlines Operates basic digital lighting equipment Takes responsibility for addressing predictable, and some less predictable, problems in basic lighting operations |
Sectors
Media and entertainment production – lighting