Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE: Assisted Listening Device

This is topic Assisted Listening Device in forum Film Handlers' Forum at Film-Tech Forum ARCHIVE.

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Posted by Raymond Christie (Member # 4080) on 02-04-2007, 07:06 PM:

Is it required by law to have assisted listening devices installed at theatres?

Posted by Louis Bornwasser (Member # 3063) on 02-04-2007, 07:12 PM:

Yes, 100% coverage with 4% headsets. Louis

Posted by Raymond Christie (Member # 4080) on 02-04-2007, 07:20 PM:

quote: Louis Bornwasser
Yes, 100% coverage with 4% headsets. Louis

So what does this mean? I am just an assistant and I am learning these things as I go. Does this mean I have to install a device in every theatre or have a unit I can hook up when needed?

Posted by Gordon McLeod (Member # 33) on 02-04-2007, 07:34 PM:

To the best of my knowledge the US is similar to here
any disabled person must have 100% access with out calling undue attention to themself to a place of public occupancy
that means 100% coverage of the theatres with HI

Posted by Frank Angel (Member # 248) on 02-05-2007, 10:21 AM:

We are in the midst of this problem as we speak in our 2500 seat theatre. Seems the construction crew trashed the infrared "exciters" during our reconstruction and didn't replace them. So we are now in a scramble to get something in place, even if it's just renting units that can be stuck in the front of the auditorum on tripod stands. We are in violation, have been for the year that we have been reopened. Two other places where I free-lance are not in compliance either.

Thing is, unless someone asks for a headset, management in all three places seem to have their heads in the sand and don't comprehend how expensive it will be if someone lodges a complaint. I believe the fines are pretty hefty. Funny thing is, a month ago I ran THE BIRDS and someone did demand a headset. Headsets we have; they just don't work. She was very sweet and didn't make a big deal that we couldn't comply, but she just as easily could have made it an issue and we would have been screwed. Then again, who knows if we still won't get that summons by certified mail sometime in the near future.

Posted by Martin McCaffery (Member # 37) on 02-05-2007, 01:43 PM:

We have the headsets, it is getting the little old broads to use them that's the problem. We just had a two week run of The Queen. The mean age of the audience was about 90. I think only one person used a headset. They'd rather just "whisper" to their friends trying to catch what they missed.