What they do?

Help set up and take down our marquee and stage for our big events

What skills are required and how to get them?

The main focus is on safety! We have to work as a team moving heavy things! So:

Marquee Wrangler Safety Basics

A quick guide for volunteers helping put up or take down our 6m x 12m marquee and 3m x 6m stage.

1. Lifting and Carrying

• Never lift alone. Poles, stage decks, and folded marquee sections are heavy and awkward — always use a two- or four-person lift for anything bulky.
• Plan before you lift. Agree who’s carrying, where it’s going, and clear the path first.
• Use good technique: feet shoulder-width apart, bend your knees (not your back), keep the load close to your body, and avoid twisting — turn your feet instead.
• Lift in stages for heavy or high items (e.g. stage sections onto trestles) — rest the load partway if needed rather than forcing it in one go.
• Know your limits. If it feels too heavy or unbalanced, stop and get more hands or a trolley/sack truck.
• Free official training: HSE – Good Manual Handling Technique

2. Gloves

• Wear gloves whenever handling poles, stakes, guy ropes, or stage frames — they protect against splinters, pinch points, and rope burn.
• Use grip-palm work gloves for general rigging; consider cut-resistant gloves if handling metal edges or cutting cord.
• Remove gloves (or use snug-fitting ones) around power tools such as drills, to avoid snagging.

3. Trip Hazards

• Stakes and pegs: flag with hi-vis tape or cones until guy ropes are tensioned and the layout is finished.
• Guy ropes and cables: keep walkways clear; route power cables away from foot traffic or cover them.
• Ground clutter: clear packaging, tools, and offcuts as you go — don’t wait until the end.
• Uneven ground: watch for holes, tent pegs, and cabling especially in low light — consider temporary lighting for early morning or evening builds.

4. General Reminders

• Wear sturdy, closed-toe boots — no sandals or trainers.
• Take regular breaks, especially in hot weather or during long build days.
• Report any near-misses or injuries to the Health & Safety lead straight away.

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How to set up the marquee

Here is the link to our ‘How to video‘ but please note the video is of a ‘similar’ marquee…

Questions? Contact the Health & Safety lead before your first build day.