These professionals have specific knowledge of the risks, regulations and technical knowledge required for circus acts. In recent years, the circus has increased the level of spectacularity and complexity of its shows, which has led to the need to incorporate more knowledge into circus acts in order to guarantee their safety. In this sense, both the calculation of safety in the structures and the training of circus performers in basic safety notions become relevant. Circus shows and performers -especially in the acrobatic specialities- increasingly require specialised people who are able to design, install and operate the various safety devices and equipment.

Thus, these professionals are responsible for installing, testing, supervising and, if necessary, training in the different techniques for tying knots, in techniques for belaying and fall protection, in access at height (vertical progression on rope), suspension and reinforcement of structures and devices, etc. They also have technical knowledge of the balance of forces, compression, traction, bending, torsion or buckling devices; fixing angles, pulley effects, factors associated with falls and shock absorption, among other notions about the specific circus equipment.

• Install circus devices and secure structures (trapezes, ropes, fabrics, aerial straps).
• Install the installation accessories (ropes, cables, etc.) and secure the acrobatic apparatus, as well as straps, turnbuckles, pulleys, carabiners, etc.
• Use protection techniques to prevent falls from heights.
• Know the physical phenomena related to these apparatus, balance of forces, angles of traction, dynamic actions and absorption of falls.
• Assemble and dismantle safety structures in the various spaces hosting shows.
• Manage safety equipment (harnesses against falls, footwear, helmets, etc.).
  

Regulated training and graduates

• Minimum compulsory education

Complementary training

• Specific training recognised by the circus sector through AERISC (European Association for the Research, Innovation and Safety of the Circus Arts).
  

Self-confidence: Level 3

Initiative: Level 2

Analytical thought: Level 2

Planning and organisation: Level 2

Concern for order and quality: Level 3

Safety

Those who prefer to work in the field of security enjoy carrying out duties of protection, security and surveillance of individuals, goods, data or information. Activities such as protecting people who work with an entity and their staff in order to prevent offences and crimes, as well participating in processes that investigate criminal activity are examples of the professional tasks that comprise this field. Knowing the laws that are applicable in the field or professional context within which this task takes place is key when carrying out these kinds of activities.

Technician

People who show an interest in the technical field find fulfilment in carrying out activities related to the design and manufacture of objects, machines, vehicles and/or infrastructures. These activities require the application of scientific and technical knowledge (laws of physics, calculations and mathematical formulas, properties of the materials, etc). Creativity is also necessary when coming up with optimal solutions for the functional requirements of the products to be designed. Therefore, the pragmatic application of scientific knowledge in order to develop solutions for the benefit of human beings is the main function of occupations in the technical field.

Building restoration technician

Occupational health and safety specialist at construction projects

Prototyping engineer

Road safety officer

Assembler for special technical fabrics

• Work hours

  In the field of creation and the performing arts, working hours are linked to the needs of the show, in the moments of assembly, rehearsal, performance and dismantling. Therefore, these professionals must be willing to work irregular working hours, depending on the schedules established in each case and respecting the applicable labour regulations.
  
  

• Salary

  Remuneration depends on the annual volume of shows and productions in which they have collaborated, and usually varies from year to year.
  
  

• Other features

  It is essential that during the creative process of developing their shows, circus artists incorporate the figure of these professionals in order to jointly understand the possible risks and ensure that maximum confidence and safety is generated.
  
  

• Professional category

  Technician