Rigging Truss
*************

This SOP defines the standards and procedures for inspecting, handling, assembling, deploying, and
striking **truss systems** used by Maryland Productions (MP) and Event Revolution (RV). Truss is a
primary structural component in entertainment rigging and must be treated as **load-bearing,
safety-critical equipment**.

Improper truss use can result in structural failure, injury, or catastrophic equipment loss.


Purpose
=======

- Ensure safe and correct use of truss systems.
- Standardize truss inspection, assembly, and deployment.
- Prevent failures caused by damaged components or improper connections.
- Protect personnel, performers, venues, and equipment.
- Establish clear expectations for truss handling and load limits.


Who This SOP Is For
===================

- Rigging technicians  
- Lead riggers and Technical Directors  
- Warehouse staff prepping truss  
- Project Managers overseeing rigging scope  
- Authorized freelancers assembling or working on truss  

Only trained and authorized personnel may assemble or modify truss systems.


Scope
=====

This SOP applies to:

- Box truss
- Triangle truss
- Spigoted and bolted truss systems
- Truss corners, tees, and specialty sections
- Truss baseplates and top plates
- Truss used for ground-supported or flown systems

Lighting clamps and motors are covered in separate SOPs.


Truss Safety Rules
==================

- Never exceed manufacturer load ratings.
- Never mix incompatible truss systems.
- Inspect every piece before use.
- Never modify truss components.
- Do not load truss until fully assembled and secured.
- Stop immediately if truss behavior seems abnormal.

Structural integrity is non-negotiable.


Truss Identification & Compatibility
====================================

- Verify:
  - Manufacturer and model  
  - Truss type and size  
  - Connection system (spigot, bolt, etc.)  
- Never mix:
  - Different manufacturers  
  - Different series  
  - Different connection types  

If compatibility is uncertain, do not assemble.


Warehouse Prep & Inspection
===========================

Before deployment:

- Inspect truss chords for:
  - Cracks  
  - Dents  
  - Bends  
- Inspect welds for:
  - Cracking  
  - Separation  
- Inspect connection points for:
  - Deformation  
  - Excessive wear  
- Verify all required hardware is present.
- Remove damaged truss from service immediately.

Truss must be inspected before every use.


Truss Assembly
==============

Assembly Standards
------------------

- Assemble truss on level ground.
- Use proper pins, bolts, and safety clips.
- Fully seat all connections.
- Engage all safety devices.
- Confirm alignment before loading.

Incomplete connections are unsafe.


Orientation & Alignment
-----------------------

- Verify correct orientation of chords and diagonals.
- Align truss straight before lifting.
- Avoid twisting or racking during assembly.

Misalignment weakens truss.


Ground-Supported Truss
======================

- Use rated baseplates or towers.
- Verify ground conditions and level surfaces.
- Install ballast or outriggers as required.
- Confirm vertical alignment.
- Apply secondary stabilization where required.

Ground support requires careful planning.


Flown Truss
===========

- Verify pick points and spacing.
- Use rated hardware only.
- Coordinate lifts with motor operators.
- Keep personnel clear during movement.
- Inspect after final trim.

Flown truss requires heightened safety.


Load Considerations
===================

- Account for:
  - Static loads  
  - Dynamic loads  
  - Wind (outdoor shows)  
- Distribute loads evenly.
- Avoid point loads unless engineered.
- Confirm total load is within ratings.

Load planning is mandatory.


Operational Monitoring
======================

During operation:

- Monitor for:
  - Movement  
  - Sagging  
  - Unusual noises  
- Re-check critical connections if conditions change.
- Stop work if instability is observed.

Conditions can change over time.


Strike & Reset
==============

- Remove loads before disassembly.
- Lower flown truss in a controlled manner.
- Disassemble carefully.
- Inspect components during strike.
- Flag damaged pieces immediately.
- Scan truss back into inventory.

Strike is a key inspection opportunity.


Handling & Storage
==================

- Handle truss with team lifts when required.
- Protect connection points during transport.
- Store truss on proper racks.
- Keep different truss types segregated.
- Maintain organized storage areas.

Proper storage preserves structural integrity.


Roles & Responsibilities
========================

Rigging Technicians
-------------------

- Assemble and handle truss safely.
- Follow approved rigging plans.
- Report damage or concerns immediately.

Lead Riggers / Technical Directors
----------------------------------

- Approve truss configurations.
- Verify load calculations.
- Enforce safety standards.

Warehouse Staff
---------------

- Inspect, prep, and reset truss.
- Remove damaged truss from service.

Project Managers
----------------

- Ensure proper rigging scope and staffing.
- Support safety-driven decisions.


Quality Control
===============

- Truss inspected before every use.
- Compatible systems only.
- Loads within rated limits.
- Issues documented and addressed.

Truss safety protects everyone below.