In an emergency situation, what is the rigger's FIRST priority?

The focus in an emergency situation should always be on preventing injury or loss of life, as the safety of personnel is the highest priority. In the context of rigging, this means that the rigger must immediately assess the situation to ensure that all individuals in the vicinity are safe and to take necessary actions to protect them from harm.

While it is also important to consider the integrity of equipment and to manage media properly, these concerns take a backseat to human safety. Damage to equipment can be addressed later, and determining the responsible party is a matter that can occur once the situation is stabilized. In emergencies, quick action focused on human life is paramount, reinforcing the principle that safety is the primary concern in any rigging operation.