PLASA NELC

National Event Lifting Certificate

Rigging is often seen as an activity that takes place at height. In actual fact, working at height is only a very small part of a rigging operation.  Many people carry out rigging without ever working at height. The risk that can be created by carrying out this work requires that these persons are competent. In addition, the law requires that lifting operations must be planned and supervised by a competent person.

The PLASA National Event Lifting Certificate (NELC) is an industry standard qualification for persons carrying out rigging work who do not work at height. The NELC will enable employers to measure their employees’ level of competence.

The NELC is aimed at the following people:

• Those who work in the industry in disciplines such as lighting, sound, video or scenery, who are often called upon to carry out various rigging tasks.
• Individuals who would like to be assessed for their skills within rigging, but who do not undertake working at height.
• Candidates on a rigging trainee programme who have no intention to work at height.

PLASA NELC

The NELC is a one day exam.

Candidates must sit a written examination.

This is followed by a practical rigging assessment.

The NELC assessment does not involve any working at height.

How to Take the NELC

To take the NELC, applicants must register with PLASA (£199 + VAT). A pack including a handbook is posted out. The handbook is like a detailed syllabus of the exam and can be used as a revision guide and to ensure readiness to book the exam.

The pack will contain information about the different centres that offer the NELC and details of what you need to do to take your assessment when you are ready. Once you have registered, you have two years to complete your NELC.