Just like many other public places, theatres are required to meet basic safety guidelines regarding the number of people allowed inside at one time, as well as the number of exits. These are generally fire code ordinances and are required to be clearly posted outside the theatre. Exit signs must glow in the dark and must be easily accessible. Other audience safety ordinances like aisle width and the distance between rows of seats are all designed to make sure that, in the event of an emergency, everyone can get out easily.
There are perhaps the largest number of standards involving safety requirements for backstage workers. Every aspect of technical theatre has different rules to which it must abide, from carpentry to electronics. National electrical standards specify how many watts can be directed through a single circuit; it is important that every aspect of wiring and electricity meet building and safety codes. Carpenters must meet requirements about weight limits and building materials to make sure that all sets are capable of holding the actor's weight; for example, the width and number of supporting beams increases with the number of people who will be using the piece. Within a stage crew, the leader is responsible for knowing and conforming to these standards, and making sure that those working under him do as well.
Any for-profit theatre is subject to the same hiring and firing guidelines as any other employer. They must compensate for overtime, holiday pay and other extra shifts worked. Workers must be legally licensed to work in the United States, which includes bringing at least two different documents of identification, such as birth certificates and social security cards. International theatre troupes often deal with labor concerns, such as work visas, and must make sure that all actors' papers are up to date and in order.
Another labor issue often dealt with by theatres is child labor, because many play casts call for actors under the legal age. In situations such as this, theatre companies must be careful to obtain the necessary legal permission from the child's parents. A guardian must be present at all times. The company must also be aware of how many hours a day the child has worked, as national standards place restrictions on the hours that those under 18 can work.
Theatre productions, while protected under the freedom of speech, can be subject to decency standards in some situations. This includes most prominently private and educational settings like school plays. Profanity, violence, sexuality and other issues are reviewed by administrators to determine if the play needs to be censored. On the national level, decency standards are limited to those receiving federal performance grants. For these individuals, the government has the right to pull funding if the play is determined to be indecent. Any theatre performance broadcast on television must censor all profanity and cut any inappropriate scenes.