Lighting Cases & Storage¶
This SOP defines the standards and procedures for storing, packing, labeling, and maintaining lighting road cases and storage solutions used by Maryland Productions (MP) and Event Revolution (RV). Proper case management protects equipment, speeds up warehouse workflows, and reduces damage during transport.
This SOP applies to all cases, racks, trunks, and storage systems used for lighting equipment and accessories.
Purpose¶
Protect lighting equipment during storage and transport.
Standardize case packing and labeling.
Prevent damage caused by improper storage or overpacking.
Improve warehouse efficiency and load-in/load-out speed.
Ensure accurate tracking of case contents.
Scope¶
This SOP applies to:
Fixture cases (moving and static)
Console and control cases
Cable trunks
Accessory and clamp cases
Power and data distribution cases
Custom foam and specialty cases
Case Standards¶
Approved Case Types¶
ATA-rated road cases
Shock-mounted racks
Custom foam-insert cases
Trunks with dividers or bins
Cases must be: - Structurally sound - Properly latched - Free of exposed sharp edges - Rated for the weight of contents
Case Labeling¶
All cases must be labeled with:
Case name or type
Contents description
Quantity (where applicable)
Ownership prefix (MP or RV)
Barcode for scanning
Additional labels may include: - Weight warnings - Orientation arrows - Fragile notices
Labels must be legible and maintained.
Packing Standards¶
General Rules¶
Never force a case closed.
Do not exceed the case’s designed capacity.
Use foam or padding as designed.
Protect lenses, connectors, and displays.
Heavy items go low and secure.
Fixture Cases¶
Fixtures must be oriented correctly in foam.
Pan/tilt locks engaged if required.
Lenses protected.
Accessories stored in designated compartments only.
Accessory & Clamp Cases¶
Clamps sorted by type and size.
Safeties stored separately from clamps when possible.
No loose hardware.
Sharp edges protected.
Cable Trunks¶
Cables coiled properly by length and type.
Power and data separated.
No mixed damaged and good cables.
Trunks must not be overfilled.
Console & Control Cases¶
Consoles powered down fully before packing.
Screens protected.
Peripherals secured.
No loose items inside the case.
Sealing & Job Assignment¶
When cases are staged for a job:
Verify contents against the pull sheet.
Close and latch the case.
Apply a case seal (e.g., blue painter’s tape) indicating: - Job name - Date - Initials of the staff member
Scan the case out to the job in the system.
Sealed cases indicate verified contents.
Storage Standards¶
Warehouse Placement¶
Store cases on designated shelving or floor positions.
Heaviest cases on the bottom.
Do not block aisles, exits, or fire equipment.
Keep cases accessible without excessive stacking.
Environmental Conditions¶
Keep cases dry and clean.
Avoid extreme heat or cold where possible.
Protect from water leaks or condensation.
Outdoor-rated cases must still be stored indoors when possible.
Returns & Check-In¶
Upon return from a job:
Open all cases.
Scan all internal contents back into the system.
Verify quantities and condition.
Remove job seal after verification.
Route damaged cases or contents to repair.
Cases may not be re-sealed or shelved until contents are verified.
Case Maintenance¶
Inspect cases regularly for: - Broken latches - Worn casters - Loose hardware - Damaged foam
Repair or retire damaged cases.
Replace missing labels or barcodes.
Clean interior and exterior surfaces as needed.
A damaged case can damage otherwise good equipment.
Responsibilities¶
Warehouse Staff¶
Pack and store cases correctly.
Verify contents before sealing.
Report case damage.
Repair Technicians¶
Repair or retire damaged cases.
Replace foam or hardware as needed.
Technicians¶
Handle cases carefully on-site.
Do not repack cases incorrectly.
Report damaged or missing cases.
Quality Control¶
Cases must be packed consistently every time.
Contents must match labels.
Seals must indicate verified contents.
No unverified cases may be shelved.
Storage areas must remain organized.