We have a large Marquee measuring 6m x 12m and this can be placed on our village green outside the hall. The Marquee has side panels but does not have a floor.
The Marquee is available for hire where the hirer commits to set up and take down the Marquee.
- Setting up and taking down the Marquee requires a team of 10 people for 2-3 hours
- The video below steps through the process for a similar marquee.
Marquee set up 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.
