Before you arrive
Confirm the start time, the site address and a phone number for your crew chief. Ask what is supplied and what you bring. Boots, hi-vis and gloves are the usual minimum, and the crew kit list covers the rest. Eat and fill a water bottle before you arrive. Allow time for the site gate and a vehicle check.
Sign in and the briefing
On arrival you sign in, and a site briefing or induction follows. This covers the site rules, vehicle routes, first aid points, who to report to and what to do in an emergency. Listen to it. It is also where you learn the layout, so you know where to find water, toilets and the crew chief.
How a bell tent build runs
The pitch positions are marked out first. The groundsheet goes down, then the canvas is laid out and pegged, and the centre pole is raised, usually by two or more people together. Guy lines are tensioned and pegs knocked in with a mallet. The tent is then dressed with beds, bedding and furnishings. The work is repetitive and physical. A crew chief will show you the method once, and your job is to repeat it consistently.
How a marquee build runs
A marquee goes up in stages: marking out, laying the frame parts, assembling the frame, lifting the roof on, then fitting the sides, flooring and any lining. Frames and roof sections are heavy and are lifted by teams on the crew chief's call. Wait for instructions rather than guessing, and never stand under a load being lifted.
Staying safe
Lift with the team, not alone, and use proper technique. The HSE has guidance on manual handling and covers work at height. Do not work above ground without being shown how and given the equipment. Say so if you are unsure.
Breaks, pay and the end of the day
Agree the hours and breaks in advance. Workers are generally entitled to a 20-minute break after six hours, see GOV.UK on rest breaks. Self-employed crew agree their own terms with the hirer. Confirm how and when you will be paid. After the build, ask the crew chief for a reference. A good one is the quickest route to more work. See what festival build crew do for the wider picture.
Get started
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