UK - The much-anticipated James Eade Rigging Power Systems training course, in partnership with EXE Technology, returned mid-October, leaving participants inspired and empowered with new skills to tackle rigging challenges in today’s demanding live entertainment sector. The event drew rigging and technical professionals from across the country, all eager to deepen their expertise and experience of rigging electrical systems using the latest technology.
The 2024 Rigging Power Systems course, hosted at Rigging Team’s HQ in Stevenage on 10-11 October, boasted a sell-out event attracting delegates from various sectors of the industry and as far afield as Tahiti.
Running for the second year, the course was developed by Matt Millward, head of automation at Area Four Direct UK and chartered engineer James Eade, who has a wealth of industry knowledge in electrical, mechanical and control system engineering. Having identified a gap in the market for the rigging sector, the duo developed the programme to provide more education, understanding and insight around the important topic of electrical safety within the rigging industry, which has seen the course grow year on year.
For many working in this sector, power is a necessary sideline, but the safe and effective operation of motors, winches, and similar devices relies on effective power distribution and circuit protection. The course explored these topics in more detail and covered a balance of theory, practical examples, and demos, allowing delegates to get hands-on with EXE kit while understanding the principles combined with operational practice.
The training, which spanned over two days, brought together a diverse group of attendees, ranging from seasoned professionals, technicians, business owners and those new to the rigging industry. Alongside freelancers, delegates attended from the National Theatre, Trans-Sport TV, Push the Button, Seal Ltd and Rigging Team.
It offered a combination of hands-on demonstrations, practical workshops, and insightful discussions, making it a holistic learning experience for all who took part.
Participants had the opportunity to work directly with EXE’s latest equipment, including a range of chain hoists from 350kg to 2000kg units, advanced hoist controllers, and precision rigging systems. This hands-on experience with EXE technology was a major draw, as attendees praised the ease of use, effective electrical protection and innovative features of the equipment. This also included the opportunity to get familiar with EXE Realtime load monitoring and understand more about the critical importance of load-bearing and monitoring.
James Eade and Matt Millward from EXE Technology led several technical sessions, offering deep insights into modern rigging practices. Topics covered included advanced electrical load calculations, system integration, and best practices for maximising both safety and efficiency on the job.
Delegates also explored the subjects of ‘PAT’ testing kit, RCDs on variable speed drives, electrical safety compliance and the application of BS 7909 to rigging systems. While there was a strong emphasis on safety and compliance, protection and effective electrical design to mitigate equipment damage remained the pivotal focal point and cornerstone of the entire training program.
James Eade said: “I was more than happy to help Matt develop this course as it is an area where there are growing problems with RCD tripping, burnt out equipment and other issues, often stemming from the actual electrical design of the system. Not only was it great to discuss topics with those who attended, it was also an ideal opportunity to get real, live electrical measurements of everything from motor start-up currents to variable speed drive leakage currents and harmonics. The aim is that attendees will leave with a better understanding of what impact cables and circuit protection has on the effective operation of a typical rigging electrical system.”
Matt Millward concludes: “Working with James to deliver this training has been a fantastic experience, his passion for furthering the education around electrical compliance in the entertainment sector aligns with our core values of customer support and training. The course continues to evolve, this year to include theory and practice with variable speed systems used in automation. We look forward to working with James and his team to provide this training into the new year and beyond.”
James Eade and EXE Technology have already begun planning the next iteration of the Rigging Power Systems training, aiming to build on the success of this event by expanding the curriculum and introducing new technology advancements. Dates for future sessions will be announced soon, with increased capacity to meet the high demand for 2025.
