In October 2021, on the movie set Rust, a prop gun fired and caused thedeath of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins. The terrible incident highlighted the urgent need for film safety.
It drew attention to the danger of handling props in a high-pressure environment. Such an event reminds us of the importance of security on a production set.
With that in mind, the info below details how to avoid getting injured in film production and keep all on-set workers safe.
Here's How To Not Get Injured In Film Production
1. Preparation and Risk Assessment
Every production should have a genuine riskassessment. It must consider all potential dangers in every department and work scenario.
An AP investigation foundthat, from 1990 to 2016, at least 43 died and over 150 were injured on U.S. film and TV sets. This adds to the importance of structured safety planning in preventing accidents.
The consequences of not planning can be seenin reality. A 1982 helicopter crash during the filming of Twilight Zone: The Movie killed three people. The helicopter plummeted because it was hovering very close to a mortar effect.
This shows that good preproduction work is needed to prevent such disasters. This is especially true for stunts involving heavy machinery in complex settings.
How To Have A Safer Production Set:
- Create a safety checklist specific to your production and tackle each potential risk.
- Assign a seasoned safety professional to oversee and enforce on-site safety protocols.
- Make it clear that everyone must be aware of risks and take responsibility for their own safety.
2. Set Safety Protocols and Training
The cast and crew should be made aware of the need forhands-on safety training. Thus, every crew member must know how to use the equipment, the emergency procedures, and the best practices for their roles.
This knowledge helps everyone work safely and effectively together! Interestingly, California requires employers to have a written "illness and injury prevention plan."
They must ensure workers can access it. Also, federal law protects workers who report health and safety issues. Their identities must remain confidential.
The 1993 tragedy involving Bruce Lee'sson, Brandon Lee, while filming The Crow partly stemmed from a lack ofsafety protocols for firearms.
This event led to major changes in prop handling, emphasizing the need for more awareness and training. Proper training and responsibility can prevent such mistakes.
They can develop a cautious mindset where every crew member focuses on safety.
How To Set Safety Protocols And Training:
- For tasks with high risks, work in pairs to protect everyone on the crew.
- Post clear signs on set to point out hazards and exits, and label safety gear clearly.
- Regularly practice emergency procedures, like fire drills and evacuation.
3. Safe Handling of Equipment and Stunts
In a film production, huge machinery like cranes would undoubtedly be required. But they can be very risky if not supervised.
For 100% safe and effective operation, such equipment must only be given to certified operators and be subject to frequent checks.
OSHA recommends that film shoots have written safety plans. They should focus more on identifying and fixing hazards.
The deathof Sarah Jones on the set of Midnight Rider in 2014 serves as aneerie reminder of the risks involved with location-based equipment.
Her being run over by a train reminds everyone that with proper planning and safety checks, it could have been avoided. It shows the urgent need to follow protocols.
It also highlights the need for thorough inspections before shooting with equipment. Essentially, it reminds everyone to be cautious in all aspects of filming.
How To Safe Handling Equipment And Stunts:
- Inspect and maintain your equipment regularly. This is very important for large machines and special effects equipment.
- Get permits for high-risk activities, like complicated stunts and special effects.
- Train crew members to safely operate equipment, respond to emergencies, and use safety gear.
4. Addressing Environmental and Location-Based Hazards
Filming in rough conditions, be it remote forests or high-rise buildings in an urban metropolis, has plenty of risks to safety.
Each location will have its own unique dangers. This may require equipment, like slip-resistant shoes, or more people on set.
Filming in diverse environments presents unique challenges. Each location demands tailored safety measures.
California OSHA requires a written safety plan and worker access to it. This endorses a proactive safety method of operation.
In 1984, during the filming of Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Harrison Ford was hurt by hazards and the rough terrain.
Productions can protect their teams and reduce injuries on demanding sets. They can do this by assessing each environment and equipping crew members.
How To Take Control of Environmental And Location-Based Hazards:
- Check locations for potential risks before filming. Watch for hazards like rough terrain, bad weather, or hazardous materials. Then, figure out how to handle them.
- Give your crew the gear they need for the job, like protective clothes or sunscreen.
- Contact local authorities and emergency services. This way, you can reach them quickly if something goes wrong.
5. Prioritizing Mental and Physical Well-Being
Now this may not seem that important but long hours and hard labor can cause a state of fatigue, which is a known precursor to on-set accidents.
Regular breaks, manageable hours, and rest periods are vital, as they ensure crew members are mentally and physically fresh. This is key to maintaining safety.
Long working hours and exhaustion are well-known contributors to on-set accidents. Regular breaks and reasonable work hours are critical to crew safety.
Federal law allows workers to report health and safety concerns anonymously, promoting a culture of safety.
How To Prioritize Mental and Physical Well-Being:
- Introduce a wellness program to reduce stress, promote healthy eating, and encourage activity. It will create a relaxing atmosphere.
- Provide support for the physical and mental well-being of your crew. If they're facing tough scenes, offer counseling to help them cope.
Key Takeaway
The tragic cases on the sets of Rust, The Crow, and Midnight Rider expose the pressing urgency to provide safety at each level of film production.
To ensure all personnel are safe, we must avoid mishaps. Full prep, extensive training, and following procedures will do this.
At ORWO Studios, we know how to avoid injuries on film sets. Our experience and commitment to safety ensure this.
By having high standards and a vigilant culture, we raise the bar for secure, productive productions.