Safety

Information about being safe on a film set.

On a film set, everyone needs to look out for each other's well being. The number one rule though is to make sure you protect yourself. Wearing the proper gear and following the rules is key to avoiding accidents and injuries.

These guidelines are in no particular order, all of them are important:

• Wear the proper Personal Protective Equipment - Steel toed boots, safety glasses, gloves, etc. could save you from injury. Safety glasses could save your eyes. If you are doing any work that needs PPE, especially with tools, wear it. 
  
  
• Do not touch other departments equipment. If it's not part of your department, do not touch it. If you do need to move a piece of equipment (let's say it's blocking an exit) talk to someone from the department first. Always get permission.
  
  
• Never touch electrical equipment, lighting or plug into an electrical box without permission. Electricity is no joke on a film set, it can be very dangerous if messed around with. Always treat it with respect and talk to the electrical department if you have a concern. NEVER plug something into an electrical box without first getting their permission.
  
  
• Never look at a film light when it's being turned on and never touch them. A film light being turned on is usually announced by shouting 'SPARKING.' The danger of this is the bright light can be disorienting and there is always a small chance of a bulb exploding. Film lights can get extremely hot and can cause serious burns, never touch them. This is left up to the lighting department. If there is a concern (like a damaged wire) bring it up to their department immediately.
  
  
• Don't run. Running on a film set looks unprofessional. It is also dangerous. Running into a person or equipment could cause injury.
  
  
• 'Watch your backs!' - If you are moving gear behind people, call this out and let them know you are behind them. Don't surprise people. It's better to make sure they are aware rather then have them turn around and injure themselves.
  
  
• When vehicles are being offloaded, give them their space. If you don't need to be around a vehicle that is removing gear, do not hang around it. Avoid standing close to their back ends and lift gates. If you are the one offloading the vehicle, make sure the area is clear before working on it. 
  
  
• If it's obvious garbage, throw it out. Now this is only if you are 100% sure it is garbage. Discarded catering packaging or coffee cups can become a tripping hazard easily. A plastic bag in the winter time, combined with a slick snow covered walkway becomes an instant slip hazard. Don't just wait around for someone else to do something, toss it out. Be aware that if the actual set has these elements and you are unsure, ask beforehand (such as scenes that are supposed to be run down and dirty.)
  
  
• Bogeys, bystanders who are unrelated to the film production, should be made aware of what's going on. Don't let bogeys into the film production area despite their curiosity. This is for their own safety. Be respectful and polite to them but try to get them out of the area as soon as possible.
  
  
• Allergies - Announcements of crew allergies tend to be made well known on a film set. Respect these rules as it is possible the allergies could be quite severe.
  
  
• Be well rested. Film work is long hours but the good news is there is catering and breaks. Even then, make sure you get plenty of sleep.
  
  
• Never go to a film set while intoxicated. If you are diabetic, let your production know. This is important because the low blood sugar symptoms can appear to be drunkenness at first.
  
  
• No horseplay - Do not play fight, goof around, throw things, etc. At best, you look incredibly unprofessional and might not be allowed on the film set. At worst, you could cause a serious accident. Throwing gear around is never a good idea, always carry it to the location.
  
  
• Dress for the weather. Wear layers of clothing. Keep in mind that even at anything below 0 degrees is uncomfortable over a long period of time. Always over-dress and over-prepare for cold weather. For hot, sunny weather make sure you have sunscreen. A sunburn is never fun. Stay hydrated as well.