On-Set Safety

Note: All students must complete the SCA Production Training and sign the SCA Student General Release Form before reserving equipment or using SCA facilities.

SCA Production Training SCA Student General Release Form

SAFETY ROLES ON SET

Every crew member is responsible for set safety and the safety of others. Film equipment can be dangerous—follow all rules.

1st AD (First Assistant Director) – Primary Safety Officer

• Run Safety Meetings: Start each day reviewing emergency plans (fire exits, extinguishers, first aid, nearest hospital). Hold updates if plans change.

• Submit Daily Production Reports: Record date, location, crew/talent hours, meals, costs, incidents, and Safety Meeting notes. One report per shoot day.

• Lead Responsibility: On small crews, the Producer may take this role, but the lead filmmaker is ultimately responsible for safety.

Production Report Template: is available on SCA Central or under Filmmaking Paperwork tab.

NEGLIGENCE

Failure to comply with proper safety protocols outlined on this website, or failure to report any injuries or damages on set, and/or failure to take responsible precautions regarding safety on set may result in:

• Removal from a set or crew

• Loss of access to SCA equipment or facilities

• Or further disciplinary action from SCA.

Responsibility

• These acts are not covered by insurance.

• In which case the student who submitted the proposal for the shoot to the Production Office may be held responsible.

Student Fines

In addition to such action, the failure to take responsible precautions to prevent loss or damage as outlined throughout the Safety section of this Guide, may result in Student Fines.

• For example, lost equipment or equipment stolen from an unattended vehicle will be considered negligence.

SET SAFETY

These are standard practices to keep everyone safe on production sets.

Length of Shooting Day

• Exhaustion is a major cause of accidents. Please respect your team.

• Maximum workday: 12 hours from call to wrap.

• Includes all pre-production and production time.

Meals and Breaks

• Provide meals no later than 6 hours after crew call.

• Meals should be nutritious and enough for cast and crew.

• Provide a separate area where everyone can sit for at least 30 minutes.

• Craft Services supports snacks, drinks, and cleanup, considering allergies.

• Drinking water must be available on every set.

Holding Areas

• Provide a safe, comfortable space for inactive cast and crew near the set.

• Must offer protection from elements (heat, cold, rain, wind).

WEATHER CONCERNS

Cover Set: A “Plan B” location ready on short notice in case of bad weather during an exterior shoot.

Responsibility: The Producer ensures the crew is aware of expected weather, working with the Location Manager on contingency plans.

Monitoring: Begin tracking weather at least one week before the shoot to prepare a cover set, adjust schedules, or reschedule if needed.

Severe Weather: For hazards like flash flooding, high winds, or lightning, have an action plan shared with cast and crew during the Safety Meeting, following standard set safety guidelines.

ELECTRICAL SAFETY

Handling Electrical Equipment

• Electricity can be dangerous. Handle all electrical gear with extreme caution.

• Do not attempt repairs or modifications; leave these to qualified electricians.

• Ask staff or faculty for help with unfamiliar or troubleshooting tasks.

Inspection & Damage

• Visually inspect plugs, cables, and equipment regularly for damage.

• Do not use damaged equipment. Report any damage immediately to the equipment center.

Water Precautions

• Extra caution around water or rainy conditions.

• Use GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters) for any equipment near or contacting water.

• Evaluate GFCI use when crew, actors, wardrobe, props, set dressing, or equipment are wet.

Communication

• The Producer and 1st AD must be informed of all electrical safety matters on set.

GENERAL SAFETY - MANAGING RISK

• When planning your shoot, take steps to reduce risks for cast, crew, and the public:

• Scout & assess: Research filming locations, tour with key crew, and check crime reports.

• Spot hazards: Watch for risks like water, heat, poor ventilation, uneven flooring, or unsafe pavement.

• Share info: List safety concerns, precautions, and the nearest hospital on the Call Sheet.

• Protect equipment: Transport and store gear securely & never leave it in vehicles or unlocked spaces overnight.

• Crew safety: Never ask cast/crew to perform unsafe tasks.

• Public safety: Keep equipment (like cables) clear of walkways and safe for everyone on site.

• Camera safety: Operators should be trained on their rigs, aware of surroundings, and use a spotter for Steadicam or moving shots.

• Working with minors: A legal guardian must be present and informed of all filming activities (see “Working with Minors” section)