Safety Meetings

In “on-production” situations, safety meetings are required to make all involved aware of the apparent and potential hazards in the day’s work. Safety meetings should be conducted on the set by the First Assistant Director and should be attended by all affected cast and crew members.

When to Call Safety Meetings

Safety meetings should be held:

  1. as part of the morning meeting;
  2. when production moves to a new location;
  3. when there is a significant change in cast and/or crew;
  4. when stunts or special effects are scheduled or have changed;
  5. when fatigue may be of concern;
  6. when there are significant changes to the original plan for the day.

Protocol for Safety Meetings

Observe the following procedures for all safety meetings:

  1. Schedule safety meetings at the earliest time in which the majority of cast and/or crew can be assembled. Convey pertinent information to all personnel unable to attend.
  2. Document all safety meetings with a Safety Meeting Report.
  3. Identify potential hazards. Department Heads should discuss hazards and establish safe working zones.
  4. Discuss emergency procedures, including identifying the location of fire alarms, fire extinguishers, emergency exits, first aid kits and telephones for 911 emergency calls. Identify medical or special emergency protocols and personnel (e.g., paramedics, police, and fire personnel).
  5. Present an evacuation plan in the event of an emergency. Remind all departments to keep fire lanes, electrical panels and exits clear at all times.
  6. Advise the cast and/or crew to notify the First Assistant Director and/or Department Head of any safety concerns or hazards.
  7. Inform cast and/or crew that, in the event of an injury, the First Assistant Director and/or Department Head must be notified immediately. The First Assistant Director and/or Department Head will assess the situation and will notify the Producer, the Shop Steward, and the school’s Head of Production.

Off-Production Safety Meetings

In “off-production” situations, the Department Head should conduct safety meetings (toolbox talks, tailgate meetings, etc.) to address pertinent safety issues, use of specialized equipment, or unusual construction activities and/or rigging. The Construction Department is required to have a safety meeting at least once every ten days, or when new equipment is introduced, and/or when special situations require additional meetings.