production checklist

Safety c h e c k l i s t SCREEN Film & Television production

Read through th is checkl ist before shoot ing.

Identify safety concerns relevant to your production.

Make sure any safety issues are addressed.

2

Safety in the f i lm and te levis ion industry

Duty of care

All personnel have a personal responsibility for the safety of themselves

and those working with them.

The law states that ignorance is no defence to a criminal charge.

How to use this publication

Recognise risks

This is a guide to important safety issues that will assist the student director-producer in recognising and taking appropriate

precautions before embarking on any film or video production. It

presents frequently encountered safety issues that should be

addressed before and during the shoot. Use it as checklist for matters that should be addressed to avoid putting actors, crew,

public and/or equipment at risk during your production.

This is NOT a totally exhaustive list but is intended as tool to help

you methodically identify and address safety issues in your

coming shoot.

Follow up

Where a safety analysis, audit or report has identified any scenes

or shots that might present risk to actors, crew, public, property and/or equipment, you should formulate strategies for how and

where you intend achieve those shots in consultation with your

lecturer or a professional safety consultant.

Communicate with your departments

Each department should review specific potential hazards

particularly relevant to them in the coming shoot.

Janis Lesinskis,

Film, Television and New Media educator and consultant.

3

Studio & interiors AIM : To create a safe working environment by ensuring the following checklist is addressed

by appropriate production personnel.

SCHEDULE : Assessment and planning can commence during location survey or at initial

studio inspection.

! entry & exit points -

� make them clearly visible,

� keep them free from obstructions,

! fire escapes -

� ensure they are adequate for cast and crew, � ensure they are clearly indicated on call sheets,

� make evacuation procedure made clear,

! fire detection -

� identify sprinkler &/or smoke detection systems,

� establish and take appropriate measures to avoid accidental triggering (eg: use of lights, smoke/fog machines),

! fire extinguishers -

� check type,

� check date,

� check need for additional types, see also : first aid and fire

! lighting -

� check film/video lighting does not pose fire hazards

� see section on lighting and safety

! human traffic -

� check cast and crew can safely move around the set/building/passages/stairways,

! ventilation -

� check it is adequate for number of people involved, � check it is adequate for heat generated,

� check it is adequate for smoke / special effects,

� check that power failure will not cause serious hazard to people,

! lifting & carrying -

� if heavy equipment is being moved, organise suitable equipment or lifting teams

set construction –

! check your set is assembled by personnel with appropriate carpentry skills

! ensure your set has been inspected by an appropriate School representative (lecturer /

supervising producer) before rehearsals take place.

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Studio & interiors continued

scaffolding -

! any form of scaffolding should only be erected, altered or dismantled by a person with

appropriate qualifications.

! check permit requirements for any major scaffolding.

! check that precautions are taken to prevent equipment, tools or debris from falling from

scaffolding.

! check that precautions are taken to prevent exposure to electrical cables occurring on

scaffolding.

! check adequate access exists throughout entire platforms and walkways.

location -

! check floors, ceiling, roof, steps and other key structural features are safe

! check for presence of hazardous materials (eg: asbestos, lead, excessive dust, chemicals,

etc)

! check old lifts are currently serviced and functioning,

! check for slippery or dangerous surfaces,

! check any construction in progress for hazards (eg: scaffolding, safety rails, holes and

gaps, building materials, power tools.)

plant & equipment -

! check it is in good working order,

! check it is placed out of traffic areas,

! check cables are placed out of traffic areas,

! check cables do not pose any electrical hazards,

! check appropriate signage is visible (eg: electrical hazard signs.)

! check electricity supply is adequate and safe,

vehicle access -

! check there is safe road access to your location,

! use signs where needed,

! check parking areas are safe and sign posted,

hygiene -

! check suitable toilets are available,

! check suitable hand washing facilities are available,

water -

! check drinking water is available,

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exteriors

AIM : To choose a suitable location and ensure safe working environment by addressing the following checklist.

SCHEDULE : Assessment and planning can commence during location survey.

location assessment and approval -

! specify your choice of location to your producer and safety consultant,

! confer with them to establish the suitability of the location,

! do not make changes to locations after approval.

! investigate guides and/or appropriate support crew for difficult or remote locations,

terrain -

! establish potential hazards in the immediate locale (eg: gradients, surfaces),

! establish location drainage in the event of water effects, rain or flood,

! establish the safest route and mode of transport to and from the location,

! assess the suitability of your chosen route (eg: road, track)

weather -

! investigate likely weather conditions (eg: prevailing winds, rain, flood hazards),

! investigate likely temperature extremes and inform cast and crew if appropriate,

! recommend suitable clothes and gear where required (for cast, crew)

fire hazards -

! investigate possible fire hazards (eg: fire bans, bush fire areas),

flora -

! assess possible hazards involving falling branches, pine cones, coconuts, etc.

investigate possibility of sharp or poisonous foliage,

fauna -

! check for presence of dangerous or distracting creatures (eg: wild animals, crocodiles,

snakes, spiders, scorpions, wasps, etc.),

chemicals -

! check for presence of potentially harmful or irritating chemicals (eg: herbicides, fungicides,

bates, excessive dust, toxic smoke or exhaust).

first aid & medical facilities -

! establish the nearest medical centre or service,

! keep contact information on hand (eg: printed on call sheets),

! check there is a suitable first aid kit,

! check there is someone with some first aid training available,

emergency -

! investigate an evacuation plan in the event of an emergency,

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exteriors continued

communication -

! ensure there is at least one reliable means of communication, (eg: mobile or radio),

! inform police &/or appropriate authorities in the case of remote locations,

hygiene -

! locate or provide suitable toilet and clean water facilities,

scaffolding -

! any form of scaffolding should only be erected, altered or dismantled by a person with

appropriate qualifications.

! check permit requirements for any major scaffolding.

! check that precautions are taken to prevent equipment, tools or debris from falling from

scaffolding.

! check that precautions are taken to prevent exposure to electrical cables occurring on

scaffolding.

! check adequate access exists throughout entire platforms and walkways.

power -

! plan suitable power sources and back up,

lighting -

! assess any potential hazards specific to the locations

! see section on lighting and safety

permission -

! obtain permission to use locations where appropriate,

! notify the appropriate police unit where the shoot is public or likely to attract onlookers,

(V i c t o r i a P o l i c e F i l m & T e l e v i s i o n O f f i c e , MEDIA & CORP ORATE

COMM UNICAT IONS D IVISION Vicki Vassilopoulos, Manager, ph: 9247 5599 Fax: 9247 3489 email: [email protected] )

onlookers or crowds -

! clearly indicate to the public any area of filming that may pose a hazard,

! assign production personnel to marshal crowds where required,

! equip marshals with identification and communication (eg: safety vests, megaphones,

walkie-talkies, mobile phones, etc,),

traffic (cars and/or pedestrians) -

! use appropriate traffic signs (eg: slow / stop) to guide traffic after seeking School approval.

! wear safety vests to promote crew visibility.

signs -

! use signage to inform public of shoot in progress (eg: caution signs).

! ensure appropriate crew wear easily seen safety clothing (eg: reflective vests) particularly

near traffic and at night.

first aid & medical emergency -

! check a suitable first aid kit is available,

! establish the nearest medical centre in preparation for possible emergency,

! include medical centre contact information on call sheets for easy reference,

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first aid & emergencies AIM : To be able to respond to minor accidents on location or in the studio.

SCHEDULE : Equipment check out.

first aid & medical emergency -

! check a suitable first aid kit is available,

! establish the nearest medical centre in preparation for possible emergency,

! include medical centre contact information on call sheets for easy reference,

first aid kit -

! ensure at least one crew member familiarises themselves with the contents of the first aid

kit,

! delegate a crew member to check kit contents during equipment check out,

! report any items used on return of your first aid kit.

first aid -

! have at least one crew member familiarise themselves with the procedure for informing

paramedical personnel in the event of an emergency :

how to ca l l an ambulance :

1. quickly assess the situation (conscious/unconscious, bleeding, breathing, pulse, type of

incident-fall, collision, burns, electric shock, collapse, seizure, etc.) If conscious, ask the

patient to describe their symptoms.

2. Dial 000

3. Request ambulance service

4. Give location of incident : street name & number, suburb/town, nearest main road, any

other useful directions.

5. Give brief description of incident.

6. Total number of patients / people requiring attention

7. Give brief description of injuries

8. Answer any questions.

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first aid & emergencies continued

While waiting for the ambulance - D check for DANGER to yourself and others (eg: if electrical shock, safely switch off the

source of power).

R check if casualty RESPONDS (gently shake them and speak to them loudly)

A check casualty’s AIRWAYS (remove any obstructions to breathing, eg: vomit, broken

teeth).

B check breathing (if not breathing, check if someone with first aid training is present and able to carry out resuscitation).

Bleeding - If there is serious bleeding apply direct pressure to the wound and surrounding skin using a

sterile pad. If this is not available improvise with a clean cloth (eg: handkerchief or tea towel)

if it appears the casualty is in danger of bleeding to death. If possible elevate the bleeding

part.

Minor wounds -

Clean these with a diluted antiseptic solution and apply a sterile dressing. Don’t try to remove any objects impaled in the wound (eg: splinters, shards).

Fractures and dislocations – Control bleeding if necessary, cover the wounds, if possible support, elevate with soft

padding. Seek qualified medical personnel as soon as possible.

Sprains and strains – R - REST the limb in the most comfortable position

I - ICE PACK covered in cloth can be applied to to the limb

C - COMPRESSION can be applied with firm bandaging E - ELEVATE the affected limb

Seek qualified medical personnel as soon as possible.

Burns – Remove danger or remove casualty and put out burning clothing (smother with blanket or

use cold water). Remove hot clothing if possible. Cool the injured area with gently running

cold water until burned area returns to normal body temperature (up to ten minutes). Cover injured area with sterile (non adherent) dressing.

Do not apply lotions or ointments. Do not prick blisters.

Seek qualified medical personnel as soon as possible.

Head injury –

Any person with a head injury should be checked by a doctor, particularly if they have been

unconscious for any length of time.

Spinal injury –

Do not move the casualty unless in serious danger. If it is absolutely imperative to move the casualty, careful support head and neck. Seek medical aid urgently.

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first aid & emergencies continued

Eye injury –

If there has been a severe blow, rest the casualty on their back keeping their head still. Seek

medical aid. If there has been chemical in their eye gently flush it with tap water. Do not attempt to remove embedded foreign bodies or foreign bodies from the coloured part of the

eye. Seek medical aid.

first aid personnel -

! seek safety consultant’s advice on need for a nurse or qualified medical practitioner to

be present during any special effects or stunts.

! clearly indicate and distribute information on nearest available medical practitioner or

facility (eg: on all call sheets).

Incident and injury reports AIM : To officially record any incident and / or accidents on location or in the studio to the

Victorian College of the Arts.

SCHEDULE : On day of incident occurrence..

injury report -

! make sure any injury that occurs is reported via the appropriate VCA form on the day of

the injury. (Forms available via School equipment store).

incident report -

! make sure any incident that does not culminate in actual physical injury is also reported

on the appropriate VCA form on the day of the incident.

(Forms available via School equipment store).

Fires Procedure –

1. Rescue any person in danger if safe to do so. Keep low (heat and smoke rises). 2. Close off fire behind door if possible.

3. Call the Fire Brigade.

4. Attack the fire if safe to do so. 5. Evacuate to an assembly point.

6. Ensure everyone is accounted for.

Extinguishers –

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If using an extinguisher check it is the right type for situation. There are a variety of types for

different purposes: ie: electrical, chemical, wood/paper, etc.

Crew

AIM : To prevent crew from being exposed, or exposing others to hazards in the course of

the shoot.

SCHEDULE : Planning the shoot technical rehearsals and on the set.

briefing -

! crew should be briefed on any stunt, special effects or special rigs they will encounter (eg:

low loaders, cranes, scaffolding).

! crew should be informed of the names of any safety supervisors, stunt coordinators

and/or assistants involved with the shoot.

! crew should be aware of the location of medical facilities.

! crew should be aware of specific back up services such as Police, Fire Brigade

! crew should be informed of accident and emergency procedures.

! encourage crew members to inform you of any medical conditions that may become an

issue during the shoot.

lifting & carrying -

! crew should be encouraged to lift and carry relevant items with proper lifting techniques.

! crew should be encouraged to assess loads and share the load of difficult items.

! crew should be provided with lifting and carrying devices where necessary.

breaks & rests -

! crew should not be expected to work beyond or through normal industry breaks and

hours.

vehicles -

! establish crew members’ ability to drive production vehicles.

! ensure all production vehicles are roadworthy and suitably equipped.

! take appropriate road signs out and use at location if their use has been approved.

(if there will be any sort of interaction with traffic and safety supervisor is present).

Cranes and dollies -

! ensure a competent and experienced key grip oversees set up and operation of cranes

and dollies.

lights -

! see” lighting” and “electricity” sections

tracking vehicles -

! any vehicle used for tracking should be in good working order.

! only necessary staff should allowed on tracking vehicles.

! walk throughs and dry runs should be carried out before actual shooting.

work hours & fatigue -

! make sure crew do not work more than the maximum 12 hours on any day.

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! avoid situations where crew must drive after a long, exhausting shoot (the ‘drive home’

after a wrap can pose additional risks of road accident if any driver is tired, driving at unusual hours, not totally familiar with the vehicle &/or required to drive a long distance.)

Cast

AIM : To prevent cast from being exposed, or exposing others to hazards in the course of the shoot. To recognise any cast member’s right to refuse to carry out an action they reasonably

consider to put them at risk.

SCHEDULE : Planning the shoot, rehearsals and on the set.

stunts -

! brief actors well in advance regarding any actions that may require a specialised skill or

stunt (eg: trips, falls, horse riding.)

! establish any need for stunt actors in consultation with a safety consultant.

! see section on ‘stunts’.

driving vehicles or riding motor bikes or scooters-

! check actors are able, willing and licensed to drive vehicles (cars, trucks, bikes, scooters).

! establish whether the specific driving task constitutes a stunt, in consultation with a safety

supervisor.

! establish actor’s confidence in the proposed task.

! do not ask actors to carry out actions that might prevent them from driving safely.

! do not ask actors to drive over the speed limit or a maximum of 60km per hour.

! do not ask actors to drive on unsealed or slippery roads.

! allow actors to acquaint themselves with relevant vehicles.

! establish any need for a low loader or stand-in.

! ensure vehicles are registered or have appropriate interim permits and are roadworthy.

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cast continued

children -

! note that it is an offence to put at risk or neglect a child’s physical or emotional wellbeing.

! check that children are not prone to any specific medical conditions that might be

encountered while shooting (eg: smoke, fog chemicals, dust, asthma, epilepsy, diabetes,

etc.)

! establish suitable adult supervision on set during and between takes.

! set reasonable performance demands on child actors.

! take adequate precautions to avoid overexposure to sun, extreme temperatures.

babies -

! babies under twelve months should be supervised by a nurse.

work hours & fatigue -

! make sure cast do not work more than the maximum 12 hours on any day.

! avoid situations where cast must drive after a long, exhausting shoot (the ‘drive home’

after a wrap can pose additional risks of road accident if any driver is tired, driving at unusual

hours, not totally familiar with the vehicle, required to drive a long distance.)

wardrobe -

! check any items of costume do not present hazards in relation to situations involving fire,

explosives, extreme heat, machinery, vehicles, water, etc. (eg: long scarves & motorbikes,

flammable fabrics near flames)

! check no wardrobe items obstruct any bodily function that will pose a serious hazard to

actors. (eg: costumes or wigs obstructing actor’s vision, wardrobe items hindering movement of limbs).

props -

! check props do not present hazards to actors (eg: weapons, sharp objects, mechanical

devices).

! allow actors to familiarise themselves with any prop that presents an element of risk (eg:

special training, coaching or rehearsals)

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Electricity AIM : To take reasonable precautions against exposing cast, crew and public to electrical

hazards in the course of the shoot.

SCHEDULE : Location survey, studio inspection, planning and on the set.

available power -

! check location of circuit breakers or fuse box.

! establish how many and which power outlets belong to which circuits.

! establish what is the maximum current you can safely draw from your intended power

source (eg: 10 amp fuse means a maximum of 2400watts should be drawn from that entire

circuit).

! check if you will be using lights that will have a power requirement of more than 20 amps.

! establish if the power available is single phase (general purpose outlet) or three phase.

fuses -

! do not replace blown fuses with larger fuses to prevent further blown fuses.

three phase power -

! three phase power sources should be operated under the supervision of qualified and

experienced personnel.

emergencies -

! establish procedure (eg: in the case of electric shock).

cables -

! electrical cables should not be exposed to traffic, weights or mechanical damage. (eg:

stands or ladders directly placed on them, doors or windows closing on them).

liquids -

! place any liquids away from electrical appliances or fittings.

gaffer -

! if the gaffer (head of lighting and electric departments) judges climatic conditions(eg: rain,

water) to pose risk of shock s/he should advise the first AD or other person empowered to disconnect power until the situation is rectified.

Generators –

! If using 5Kva or smaller generator, ensure crew receive operating instruction from supplier

(hire service).

! If larger generator is to be used it must be operated by a qualified gaffer or electrician.

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Lighting AIM : To take reasonable precautions against exposing cast, crew and public to electrical

hazards in the course of the shoot.

SCHEDULE : Location survey, studio inspection, safety report and consultation, scheduling of pre-light and practice on the set.

location requirements -

! investigate specific location features and requirements (eg: sprinkler systems, smoke

detectors, power outlets, circuits).

equipment checks -

! check no damaged or unsafe lights, stands or cables are taken out on your shoot.

! use power boards with safety trip switches (available from School equipment store.)

setting up -

! ensure adequate time is scheduled for lighting set ups.

! do not set up lights near liquids, puddles, rain.

! where moisture is present, cover plugs and powerboards with plastic.

! where ground or floor might become wet, rest cables safely above ground.

! tape down cables that may present a tripping hazard.

! ensure cables do not make contact with hot parts of lights (lamp housings).

! use suitable protective wear (eg: gloves, safety glasses) when handling hot lights.

! avoid placing cables across walkways.

! avoid placing polystyrene reflectors too close to hot lights.

! do not place cables under flammable mats.

! do not use power cables while they are coiled up (causing them to overheat).

! do not pass cables through doors or windows that can slam or damage them.

! check light stands are stabilised with shot bags.

! avoid placing lights near sprinkler systems.

sprinkler systems -

! it is most important to investigate possible need to fully or partially deactivate sprinkler

systems during your shoot. Make sure you understand the details of this procedure as they

apply to your specific location. Accidental triggering of sprinkler systems with hot film lights is a very dangerous and costly mistake.

rain or flooding -

! where sudden or unexpected water occurs, switch off at power supply point and allow

equipment to dry before use.

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Lighting continued

heat -

! keep lamps away from combustible / flammable materials (eg: chemicals, plastics, fabrics,

paper).

! do not stick gaffer or other tape anywhere on lamp housings (eg: to attach gels, etc.)

! do not place lights where air space and flow is extremely restricted and overheating may

occur.

moving or repositioning lights -

! allow lights to cool sufficiently before moving them - eg: a couple of minutes.

! do not adjust light by standing in front of it while it is on.

replacing blown lamps -

! disconnect from power before changing lamps / bulbs.

! use suitable protective wear (eg: gloves, safety glasses).

HMI lighting -

! all personnel should avoid prolonged exposure to HMI lamps due to their emission of UV

radiation.

! assess need for appropriate UV filters if spending prolonged periods in close proximity to

these lights.

generators -

! all connections to a generator should be made by a competent person.

extinguishers -

! ensure suitable fire extinguishers accompany generators. (ie : water should not be used.)

equipment damage and faults -

! report any specific damage or faults occurring when returning equipment

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Weapons AIM : To handle guns or other weapons legally, responsibly and safely on the set.

SCHEDULE : Preproduction consultation with professional armourer, rehearsals and supervision during film shoot..

guns / firearms -

! a licensed armourer must be engaged regardless of whether the gun used is a plastic

replica incapable of firing or a real gun.

! hearing protection should be supplied to crew in the case of blanks or explosions.

! encourage relevant cast members to acquaint themselves with basic gun safety:

ie -

always treat a gun as if it is loaded.

never point a gun at other people or yourself.

seek instruction for handling the specific gun involved. loading and unloading should be carried out or supervised by a licensed armourer.

do not pass gun around to other people.

do not carry gun with hammer cocked. be aware blanks can cause serious injury.

never bring live ammunition on to the set.

guns as wardrobe items -

! if guns are to only appear holstered, holsters with gun handles only might be available

(thus reducing hazards and perhaps the amount of supervision required).

police -

! police must be informed of any intention to fire blanks. (Victorian Police Film Liaison Unit,

ph: 9247 5276, m: 0407 049 146.)

training and rehearsals -

! make sure actors get adequate training in the use of relevant weapons (eg: guns, knives,

swords, sticks, bows, slingshots, blowdarts, etc.) before the actual shoot. schedule accordingly.

other weapons -

! consult a professional safety consultant to determine any need for a stunt coordinator or

fight choreographer.

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Special effects AIM : To carry out special effects legally, responsibly and safely on the set.

SCHEDULE : Preproduction consultation with special effects crew.

explosives and pyrotechnics -

! must be carried out under the supervision of licensed operators.

! must be cleared by local fire brigade.

! must be cleared through the police film liaison office .

(Victorian Police Film Liaison Unit, ph: 9247 5276, m: 0407 049 146.)

! require notifying local residents, industry, hospitals, etc.

! require notifying civil aviation bodies if an effect rise 150 metres or more into the air.

! require clear notification regarding precisely when blasts are to take place.

explosives licences -

! operators should hold a current ‘Licence to use Blasting Explosives in Victoria’.

rain and snow effects -

! seek advice of professional safety consultant.

! do not use polystyrene flakes to simulate snow.

smoke and fog effects -

! should be supervised by a professional safety consultant.

! investigate low toxicity, low irritant, water based products.

! avoid coloured smokes that may contain dyes which discolour property.

! personnel should be evacuated from the smoke area as directed by the safety supervisor.

flares and sparks -


fire -


hazardous chemicals and substances -

! avoid using :

solvents (petroleum distillates) - they are flammable, hexachloroethane, cyclohexylamine,

ethylene glycol, diethlyne glycol, Sal ammoniac, zinc chloride, titanium tetrachloride, car

tyres, smouldering sawdust, industrial paraffin, diesel, freons.

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Stunts AIM : To recognise and assess potential hazards and engage professional stunt personnel where appropriate.

SCHEDULE : Preproduction consultation with supervising producer and safety report

procedure two weeks prior to shoot.

safety report -

! outline and discuss all potential hazards present in the script with the supervising

producer.

! submit your script to a professional safety consultant.

! discuss any potential hazards in relation to how the script is to be shot.

locations -

! nominate and disclose to supervising producer and safety consultant the actual locations

where you intend shooting any potentially hazardous scenes.

! do not make changes to locations after approval.

footfalls -

! assess your actors’ physical ability to carry out a fall (eg: age, fitness, specific medical

conditions).

falls that occur on one single level (no drop involved) may be referred to a stunt double by you or the actor concerned.

! see “rehearsals” - below

! assess the need for padding and provide opportunity to wear padding in consultation with

wardrobe department.

high falls -

! appropriate landing areas must be prepared under the supervision of a safety supervisor

where a fall is from one elevation down to another.

falls into water -

! assess your actors’ physical ability to carry out the proposed fall (eg: age, fitness, specific

medical conditions) in consultation with the safety supervisor.

! assess the need for stunt performers and personnel and equipment in consultation with

the safety consultant (eg : divers).

! seek necessary permissions such as police and other concerned authorities.

falls from horses or moving vehicles -

! consult with professional safety consultant.

! notify police and organise the diversion of all traffic away from location.

! take appropriate road signs out and use at location if their use has been approved.

! any animals involved should be adequately trained and rehearsed for the stunt.

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Stunts continued

driving -

! assess dangers associated with specific shots requiring specific actions with specific

actors that involve driving. (see also “driving vehicles” under “cast” section.

! assess individual actors’ ability to carry out required actions.

! investigate and observe road and traffic laws relevant to proposed action and shots.

complicated actions -

! assess potential dangers where actors might be asked to carry out multiple or difficult

tasks (eg: dialogue while driving, dialogue or action involving machinery, weapons and/or hazardous locations, horse riding and shooting, falls, fights, etc.)

! engage the services of stunt performers and or coordinators where required.

rehearsals -

! schedule rehearsals for any actions requiring higher than normal dexterity, physical skills

or abilities.

! mats should be provided for rehearsal of falls.

medical supervision -

! establish and organise appropriate qualified medical personnel equipped to deal with the

proposed stunts.

! assess need for standby paramedic and ambulance for any stunt and organise

accordingly.

first assistant director -

! first AD and safety supervisor should ascertain the presence of appropriate fire

extinguishers, equipment and personnel that can use them.

director of photography -

! the DOP should set camera positions in consultation with safety consultant for stunts.

fire brigade -

! should be notified and possibly present on set where fire is involved.

clothing -

! appropriate clothing and other protective wear should be used in the presence of fire

dangers.

rescue -

! assess the need and engage appropriate rescue personnel and equipment (eg: for car

stunts, climbing, diving, etc.)

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Vehicles & transport

AIM : To recognise and assess potential hazards and engage professional stunt personnel

where appropriate in connection with use of cars, trucks, motorbikes, scooters, boats,

aircraft.

SCHEDULE : Preproduction.

driving vehicles or riding motor bikes or scooters-

! consult with a professional safety officer in regard to specific requirements.

! check actors and relevant crew are able, willing and licensed to drive relevant production

vehicles (cars, trucks, bikes, scooters).

! establish whether the specific driving task constitutes a stunt, in consultation with a

safety supervisor.

! establish production personnels’ confidence in the proposed task.

! do not ask actors to carry out actions that might prevent them from driving safely.

! do not ask actors to drive over the speed limit or a maximum of 60km per hour.

! do not ask actors to drive on unsealed or slippery roads.

! allow actors and relevant production personnel to acquaint themselves with relevant

vehicles.

! establish any need for a low loader or stand-in.

! ensure vehicles are registered or have appropriate interim permits and are roadworthy.

cameras, lights and rigs -

! attachment of equipment to any vehicle should be carried out or supervised by a

suitably experienced person.

! if necessary, tests and rehearsals should be conducted prior to shoot.

boats / water -

! consult with a safety supervisor (re: safety harnesses, extinguishers, navigational

practice and equipment, signals and flares, etc.)

! establish whether the specific task constitutes a stunt, in consultation with a safety

supervisor.

! establish actor’s confidence in the proposed task.

! ensure suitable life saving equipment is present.

! investigate boat’s terms of licence and registration ( re: speed, load, conditions of use,

etc.)

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Vehicles & transport continued

boats / water -

! consult with a safety supervisor (re: safety harnesses, extinguishers, navigational

practice and equipment, signals and flares, communication equipment, specialist

safety and rescue personnel, etc.)

! establish whether the specific task constitutes a stunt, in consultation with a safety

supervisor.

! establish actors’ and production personnels’ suitability and confidence in the proposed

task. (eg: motion sickness, drowsiness induced by medication, physical fitness,

swimming ability, etc.)

! ensure suitable clothing is brought to the location (eg: wet weather gear, warm

clothing)

! ensure suitable life saving equipment is present.

! investigate boat’s terms of licence and registration ( re: speed, load, conditions of use,

etc.)

! ‘person overboard’ procedure should be demonstrated by safety supervisor.

! monitor weather conditions constantly.

! seek local knowledge re: prevailing conditions (eg: tides, currents, rips, sharks, jellyfish,

lice, etc.)

! seek approval and advice from local authorities.

! notify local authorities or emergency services of your movements.

! avoid any actions that will pollute waterways.

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Computer workstations

AIM : To encourage your own awareness of occupational health and safety issues in a

computer based work environment (eg: production office practice, computer animation practice, computer programming or coding, logging, post production, graphic design.)

To encourage you to develop your own individual work strategies.

SCHEDULE : Preproduction, production, post production.

repetitive work - data input or manipulation, whether it is part of production management tasks, the non-linear

editing process, animation procedure, etc., may involve highly repetitive hand and arm

movements ( key boarding, mouse handling, etc.). If you are experiencing difficulty in any of these work practices you might seek medical

advice from a general practitioner or physiotherapist regarding a suitable work tools strategy

for yourself. For example you might investigate or explore different keyboard sizes or

shapes, or track ball versus mouse versus pen and tablet devices where possible.

hours of work -

assess your work hours in terms of industry norms and your own individual rate of fatigue. avoid extremes tests of your stamina.

respect your colleagues physical and mental needs.

try to recognise when your efficiency and productivity start to decline rapidly.

posture -

investigate your own posture requirements.

try to monitor any undesirable posture habits you might have (slouching or hunching forward).

investigate suitable stretches and exercises and optimum break periods for yourself.

adjust your chair to an appropriate height.

eyestrain -

establish a comfortable working distance between yourself and any screen that you will work at for prolonged periods.

avoid positioning yourself too close to the screen.

investigate screen display options if necessary (eg: screen display sizes, font sizes).

investigate suitable eye exercises and optimum break periods for yourself.

screen emissions -

recent research seems to suggest there is not a major threat posed by electromagnetic radiation from current computer screens but also that the safest position in relation to

electromagnetic radiation is in front of the screen / VDU (rather close next to or behind the

screen). Liquid Crystal Displays or LCD ‘flat screens’ do not use a cathode ray tube and may

produce even smaller amounts of radiation.

production checklist

Documents