Under the Health & Safety At Work Act, it is a general duty on all employees to take reasonable care for the health and safety of themselves and of others who may be affected by their acts or omissions. There are a number of health and safety issues particular to the film and television industry, and it is important that all parties involved in any given production abide by the same procedures and precautions.
Responsibilities
The filmmaker/production company retains overall responsibility for their activities and is therefore responsible for ensuring appropriate co-ordination and control of the event.
The production should ensure that:
- All crew are competent for the work in question
- All crew are provided with adequate information regarding the event
- Adequate time and resources are allowed for the event
- Sufficient time is provided within the schedule for reccies, changes of plan, adequate rehearsals for stunts etc
- The production gives serious consideration to any risk posed to the public as a consequence of the event
- An overall risk assessment for the production is drawn up
Risk assessment
The production should ensure that there is an overall risk assessment for the production and that the arrangements for communicating the risks and safety arrangements are adequate. The production should ensure that the control measures are in place.
Newham Film Office can help you draw up a risk assessment; we have template forms and are experienced in putting them together.
Newham Film Office will advise you on all matters surrounding health and safety during the planning stages of your filming. We work closely with local Police and consult them on all matters concerning public safety.
Health & Safety Commission
The Health and Safety Commission is responsible for health and safety regulation in
Downloadable from the site is their guide entitled “Health & Safety in Audio-Visual Production”. This guide has practical tips to help filmmakers comply with various health and safety duties, such as carrying out risk assessments and proper testing of props before they are used. The guide also outlines the health and safety obligations and responsibilities for different crew members.
The HSE have produced a series of information sheets in consultation with the Joint Advisory Committee for Entertainment. You can get these information sheets from our pages dedicated to stunts, weapons & firearms, vehicles, and buildings.
More information on health and safety in buildings used for locations & temporary studios.
More information on stunts & other potentially hazardous production activities.
More information on safe filming & recording involving vehicles.
More information on the management of firearms & weapons.
Enquiries
If you can’t find it, call us. We offer
specialist help and personal support
to all filmmakers.
Email us
T. +44 (0)20 8430 2261
F. +44 (0)20 8430 1255
Contact David Fearn
David Fearn
david.fearn@newham.gov.uk
M. +44 (0)7967 302364