Health and safety considerations - AQAPuppet design

As with set design, tools and equipment can require supervision and training. It may also be necessary to use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as goggles, ear protectors and gloves. It is important to adhere to this and wear sensible clothing and shoes, beware of loose clothing and tie long hair back if operating any equipment. Consider where tools will be safely stored during construction and rehearsals.

Materials need to be fireproofed and non-toxic, but also durable without being too heavy, so that puppeteers can operate the puppets safely. Many puppets are worn using a harness, and the puppet’s weight needs to be distributed evenly to prevent falls and injury. Puppets should not restrict the puppeteer’s breathing, sightlines or movement.

The audience’s health and safety needs to be considered, particularly if puppets move through the aisles or interact with children. All materials need to be securely fixed and the risk of any parts catching on seats or people assessed.

As with costume design, some materials, such as latex and nickel (found in a lot of jewellery), can cause allergic reactions, so puppeteers should be consulted on this.