How do you ensure that all members of the production team are aware of safety protocols on set?

1 Assign a safety officer

One of the first steps to ensure safety on set is to assign a safety officer who is responsible for overseeing and implementing the safety protocols. This person should be knowledgeable, experienced, and certified in first aid, fire safety, and other relevant skills. The safety officer should also have the authority to stop the production if they deem it unsafe or risky. The safety officer should be in constant communication with the director, the producer, and the department heads to coordinate and monitor the safety measures.

2 Conduct a risk assessment

Before you start shooting, you should conduct a risk assessment to identify and evaluate the potential hazards on your location or studio. This includes checking the weather, the terrain, the equipment, the stunts, the special effects, and the health conditions of the cast and crew. You should document the risks and the mitigation strategies in a written report that is shared with the production team. You should also update the report as the production progresses and new risks emerge.

3 Provide safety training and briefing

Another way to ensure safety on set is to provide safety training and briefing to the production team. This can be done in various ways, such as online courses, workshops, manuals, videos, or meetings. The safety training and briefing should cover the general safety rules, the specific safety procedures for each department, the emergency plan, and the contact details of the safety officer and the medical personnel. You should also make sure that everyone signs a safety agreement that confirms their understanding and compliance.

4 Use proper equipment and gear

Using proper equipment and gear is essential for safety on set. You should always inspect, test, and maintain your equipment and gear before and after each use. You should also label, store, and transport them safely and securely. You should also provide and require the use of appropriate protective gear, such as helmets, gloves, goggles, earplugs, masks, or harnesses. You should also avoid using faulty, damaged, or unauthorized equipment and gear.

5 Encourage feedback and reporting

Finally, you should encourage feedback and reporting from the production team regarding safety on set. You should create a culture of openness, trust, and respect where everyone feels comfortable to voice their concerns, questions, or suggestions. You should also establish a clear and easy reporting system where anyone can report an incident, an injury, a near miss, or a violation. You should also follow up on the reports and take corrective actions if needed.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?