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Operate a radio and audio studio

URN: SKSRACC11
Business Sectors (Suites): Radio and Audio Content Creation
Developed by: ScreenSkills
Approved on: 2024

Overview

This standard is about using self-operated (self-op) studios and technical operative (tech-op) driven studios and being aware of their range of equipment and production techniques.
 
It is not only about being able to use individual pieces of equipment but also being able to co-ordinate their use under pressure.
 
This standard is for those who operate a studio in the radio and audio industries.

Performance criteria

You must be able to:

  1. operate studio equipment to meet radio or audio production requirements
  2. select sound sources and operate studio controls, mixing desk and playout system concurrently to meet radio or audio  production requirements
  3. work collaboratively with others in the studio production team
  4. develop viable contingencies to minimise risks to effective operation
  5. deal with information or direction given via headphones and talkback without interrupting the flow of a live production
  6. assess information to diagnose the likely source of technical transmission problems or equipment failure during the broadcast or delivery process
  7. remedy equipment failure or technical transmission problems that are within your area of expertise
  8. seek assistance when technical transmission problems are beyond your own expertise
  9. comply with relevant health and safety procedures to minimise risk to yourself and others

Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

  1. the differences between self-op and tech-op driven studios
  2. the roles, responsibilities and hierarchy of studio production teams
  3. the differences between studio operations for live or recorded radio or audio production
  4. the different technical formats and technologies used to link studios
  5. the basic principles of operating a mixing desk, its peripheral equipment, hardware and software
  6. the range of potential remote sound sources
  7. the characteristics and limitations of different playout systems and how to use them
  8. the correct and safe use of headphones and talkback, microphone positions and line of sight
  9. the layout, available equipment and technology, and configuration of any particular studio to be used
  10. the importance of good studio discipline
  11. the various stages of the radio and audio broadcast process
  12. how to identify technical problems when they arise
  13. how to handle problems during live production without distracting the audience
  14. who to contact for help with technical problems which are beyond your expertise
  15. the health and safety regulations and procedures applying to the use of all studio equipment

Scope/range

Scope Performance

Scope Knowledge

Values

Behaviours

Skills

Glossary

Links To Other NOS

External Links

Version Number

3

Indicative Review Date

2027

Validity

Current

Status

Original

Originating Organisation

ScreenSkills

Original URN

SKSRAC13

Relevant Occupations

Station Manager, Production Coordinator, Studio Manager, Radio Presenter, Technical Producer, Broadcast Assistant, Assistant Producer, Producer, Executive Producer, Drama Producer, Comedy Producer, Documentary Producer, Podcast Producer, Audio Producer

SOC Code

Keywords

studio; radio; audio; operate; mixing; sound; equipment; technical; health and safety;