CUASTA403
Operate flying systems


Application

This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to operate manual and automated flying systems that raise and lower soft hangings and flats, and 'fly' scenery items into and out of performance spaces.

Individuals who apply these skills work autonomously in a team environment as they take responsibility for ensuring the smooth operation of flying systems for productions in the entertainment and events industries.

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 flying operations

1.1 Clarify flying requirements in consultation with relevant personnel and with reference to production documentation

1.2 Plot and run through fly cues, ensuring correct speed and timing of each cue

1.3 Modify cues as required, in consultation with relevant personnel

1.4 Complete pre-show checks to ensure individual components of flying systems are ready for operation and comply with safety requirements

1.5 Execute pre-sets and document modifications as required

2. Fly set elements

2.1 Execute fly cues safely according to performance requirements

2.2 Use flying systems within their rated capacity and acceptable safety margins

2.3 Where counterweight systems are used, keep flown loads and counterweights in balance or under control

2.4 Use brake system, handbrake or other stopping devices safely and appropriately

2.5 Use control systems according to instructions

2.6 Promptly identify problems with flying system operation and rectify or refer to relevant personnel according to organisational procedures and safety regulations

2.7 Use communication systems and signals according to organisational procedures and safety requirements

3. Complete post-show tasks

3.1 Reset flying elements at completion of performances according to organisational procedures and safety regulations

3.2 Inform relevant personnel of aspects of system operation that require attention

3.3 Contribute to evaluations of productions and implement recommendations aimed at improving overall effectiveness of flying operations

Evidence of Performance

Evidence of the ability to:

operate flying systems for at least two productions

follow safety procedures

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:

describe issues and challenges that typically arise when operating flying systems, along with solutions to address them

explain the link between flying and other aspects of productions and the range of elements that are commonly flown

explain different ways in which flying systems can be operated

explain safety issues that impact on flying systems, including regulations about the scope of work that can be undertaken by unlicensed personnel and emergency procedures

explain sequencing, timing and speed requirements for flying systems in a range of productions

provide examples of communication systems and correct signals to use when operating flying systems

explain the following in relation to counterweight systems:

loading and unloading cradles

safe working loads

single and double purchase

spreading the load

swinging bars

where to hang lighting bars and masking.


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:

a venue in which a theatrical flying system is installed

a production that requires the operation of flying systems.

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

Reading

1.1, 2.5

Interprets production documentation in relation to own duties

Writing

1.3, 1.5

Completes workplace documentation

Oral communication

1.1, 1.3, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 3.2, 3.3

Obtains information by listening and questioning

Discusses ideas and solutions when operating flying systems

Numeracy

1.2, 1.3

Calculates timings when plotting and modifying cues

Navigate the world of work

1.1, 1.2, 1.4, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 3.1

Follows workplace protocols and safety procedures

Undertakes tasks in line with own level of responsibility

Interact with others

1.1, 1.3, 2.5, 2.6, 2.7, 3.2, 3.3

Works collaboratively to achieve shared goals

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, 3.1, 3.2, 3.3

Adopts a methodical and logical approach to operating flying systems

Uses control desks and manual systems to fly production elements

Recognises and takes responsibility for addressing predictable, and some less predictable, problems when operating flying systems

Applies a knowledge of staging and flying systems to work activities

Implements improvements based on outcome of evaluations of flying operations


Sectors

Media and entertainment production - staging