Elements and Performance Criteria

Element

Performance Criteria

1

Record, modify and replay lighting cues.

1.1

Correctly identify the functions of controls on the console, including function of the unit displaying data and controls to produce text.

1.2

Correctly undertake channel selection and intensity setting, identify on display unit and make appropriate modifications using all relevant controls.

1.3

Accurately record cue number and fade/wait times identify on display unit and make appropriate modifications using all relevant controls.

1.4

Play recorded cues in correct sequence and time using all relevant controls correctly, and identify on display unit.

1.5

Create, modify and replay group and sub-groups in correct sequence and time using all relevant controls correctly and identify on display unit.

2

Carry out procedures prior to plotting or operating lighting cues.

2.1

Ensure that working area is clear, tidy, properly illuminated, and relevant written instructions are to hand.

2.2

Check communications equipment and ensure that it is in working order.

2.3

Power up dimmers, control desk and peripherals using safe working practices and check that operating environment is within manufacturer parameters.

2.4

Test lighting instruments, accessories and other lighting elements to ensure all items are in correct working order.

2.5

Test venue audience, decorative, safety, and working lighting to ensure all items are in correct working order.

2.6

Identify problems with equipment promptly and take appropriate action, or refer to appropriate personnel as required.

3

Plot and operate lighting cues.

3.1

Check instructions to verify practicality before plotting and repeat once plotted.

3.2

Test line of sight needed for visual cues for feasibility during performance.

3.3

Action cues without delay in accordance with directions and production requirements.

3.4

Complete cue modifications in accordance with instruction and accurately update appropriate documentation.

3.5

Establish suitable back-up lighting states in the event of the failure of those recorded.

3.6

Store recorded lighting cues and other data electronically on device external to main lighting console.

3.7

Identify and rectify problems safely and in accordance with venue procedures, or refer to appropriate personnel.

4

Carry out basic troubleshooting procedures.

4.1

Correctly identify the nature of faults and locate promptly.

4.2

Assess the need for remedial action taking consideration of safety issues and the need for uninterrupted performance.

4.3

Correctly follow manufacturer diagnostic and remedial procedures in accordance with organisational policy.

4.4

Report fault to appropriate personnel if fault cannot be immediately rectified, providing all relevant information.

4.5

Liaise with appropriate personnel to identify back-up alternatives if fault cannot be rectified before next production deadline.

5

Carry out post-performance procedures.

5.1

Correctly power down equipment or set to standby between performances as required.

5.2

Store and/or cover control in accordance with organisational procedures.

5.3

Make accurate changes to documentation and file in accordance with organisation procedures.

Required skills:

communication skills to allow for effective collaboration with other technicians and designers

numeracy skills sufficient to complete simple mathematical calculations and recall numbers for channel selection

literacy skills sufficient to interpret production documentation.

Required knowledge:

knowledge of general lighting terms, including how terms may vary between different systems or how different terms can refer to the same functions on different systems

knowledge of lighting control concepts used in various lighting systems

industry terminology and protocols particularly in relation to the operation of lighting

knowledge of the main types of lanterns, including profile, Fresnel, PC, flood, and PAR lamps, their uses and operations (optical and mechanical) and accessories

understanding of the basic elements of lighting design

problem-solving techniques particularly in relation to lighting console operation

documentation and back-up systems used in conjunction with lighting control

colour recognition in display equipment.

The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the performance criteria, required skills and knowledge, range statement and the Assessment Guidelines for the Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate competency in this unit

The following evidence is critical to the judgement of competence in this unit:

ability to accurately record and reproduce lighting cues to instruction in a given timeframe

knowledge of lighting terminology.

Context of and specific resources for assessment

The assessment context must provide for:

practical demonstration of skills through the use of a lighting console on multiple occasions for multiple productions

use of industry-current equipment.

Method of assessment

Assessment may incorporate a range of methods to assess performance and the application of essential underpinning knowledge, and might include:

direct observation of the candidate operating a lighting console during production

direct observation of the lighting effects produced by the candidate during a production

oral or written questioning to assess knowledge of console features and functions

review of portfolios of evidence and third party workplace reports on on-the-job performance by the candidate.

Assessment methods should closely reflect workplace demands and the needs of particular groups (eg people with disabilities, and people who may have literacy or numeracy difficulties such as speakers of languages other than English, remote communities and those with interrupted schooling).

Assessment of this unit requires access to:

a range of lighting equipment as identified in the Range Statement

a production and production venue.

The range statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Bold italicised wording, if used in the performance criteria, is detailed below. Essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment (depending on the work situation needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts) may also be included.

Venue lights may include:

aisle lights

blue light

cleaners lights

display/advertising lights

general lights

house lights

orchestra lights

panic lights

task light

work lights.

Lighting instruments must include:

theatre-based units.

Lighting instruments may include:

special effects units

digital moving lights.

Other lighting elements may include:

electrical/electronic props

pracs

special effects such as:

chasers

effects projectors

fog machines

haze machines

mirrorballs and motors

smoke machines

strobes

ultraviolet light.

Control desks must include:

manual desks

manual/memory desks.

Control desks may include:

controlled lighting effects.

Control desk peripherals must include:

desk lamps

control cables.

Control desk peripherals may include:

backup units

effects units

monitors

printers

riggers controls.

Dimmers may include:

analogue dimmers

multiplexed analogue dimmers

multiplexed digital dimmers

single unit (follow spot) dimmers, eg Model 1 or Monopak

small self-contained dimmable controllers, eg. Fourpack, Quadpak.

Appropriate personnel may include:

designer

director

head of department

stage manager

supervisor

other specialist staff.

Testing the control system must include ensuring that:

all dimmer channels are functioning properly

all operational controls on the lighting board function properly

all peripherals are functioning properly

any riggers or designer controls are functioning properly

there is a valid DMX line/signal.