Motion picture handbook; a guide for managers and operators of motion picture theatres ([c1916])

FOR MANAGERS AND OPERATORS 73 Stage Switchboard. — The stage switchboard should be located on the proscenium wall. It is common practice to place it to the right of the stage as one looks toward the audience. It should be protected by a substantially constructed iron railing, not less than 48 inches high and located not less than 36 inches from the face of the board, and to be securely fastened to the floor in such manner as to withstand a heavy shock, as, for instance, a person falling violently against it, or scenery falling on it. All fuses on a stage switchboard must be approved cartridge or plug type. It is absolutely forbidden, under any circumstances, to use a link or open fuse on the stage. The stage switchboard should carry (a) main fuses and main switch supplying all stage circuits; (b) service fuses and switches for each individual circuit, plainly labeled with name of circuit it controls, thus: "White Foots," "Red Foots," "First Borders, White," "First Borders, Green," etc. Stage switchboards need not be equipped with a cabinet and door, but every precaution must be observed to render accidental contact with scenery impossible. The utmost care must be exercised that all switch contacts and wire contacts and fuse contacts be kept tight .and in perfect electrical and mechanical condition, to prevent any possibility of heating. The wires should be thoroughly examined at regular intervals to see that the installation is in perfect condition. In fact, inasmuch as there is always more or less (usually more, and sometimes a great deal more) inflammable material constantly exposed on the stage, it is impossible to be too care jigure 20.