How Project Managers Can Implement Custom Safety Plans in Film and TV Production

Project managers in the film and TV industry face unique challenges when it comes to safety. From managing high-risk stunts to ensuring the well-being of large crews, the stakes are high. Implementing custom safety plans and program development is crucial for maintaining a safe and compliant production environment.

Understanding the Unique Safety Needs of Film and TV

Film and television productions are dynamic, with ever-changing sets, locations, and personnel. This fluidity demands a safety approach that's both flexible and robust. I've seen productions where a generic safety plan simply didn't cut it; the risks were too specific and varied.

Steps to Develop a Custom Safety Plan

Developing a custom safety plan starts with a thorough risk assessment. Here's how you can do it:

• Conduct a Site-Specific Hazard Analysis: Each location and set has its own set of hazards. From electrical setups to stunt choreography, understanding these risks is the first step.
• Engage with the Crew: Safety is a team effort. Involve key department heads and crew members in the planning process to ensure all perspectives are considered.
• Develop Tailored Procedures: Based on your hazard analysis, create procedures that address the specific risks identified. This might include custom lockout/tagout procedures for equipment or specialized training for handling pyrotechnics.
• Integrate with Existing Safety Protocols: Ensure your custom plan aligns with industry standards like those set by OSHA and the Screen Actors Guild (SAG-AFTRA).

Implementing the Safety Plan

Once your custom safety plan is developed, the next step is implementation. Here's what you need to do:

• Training: Conduct thorough training sessions for all crew members. Use SafetyNet Inc's Pro Shield platform to manage and track this training effectively.
• Regular Audits: Use the LOTO Procedure Management and Job Hazard Analysis tools within Pro Shield to perform regular safety audits and ensure compliance.
• Incident Reporting: Establish a clear incident reporting system using Pro Shield's incident reporting and tracking features to quickly address and learn from any safety issues that arise.

Benefits of Custom Safety Plans

Custom safety plans offer several benefits:

• Enhanced Safety: Tailored plans address specific risks, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
• Compliance: Custom plans help meet the unique regulatory requirements of the film and TV industry, such as those from OSHA and SAG-AFTRA.
• Efficiency: By addressing specific hazards, you can streamline operations and reduce downtime due to safety concerns.

Challenges and Considerations

While custom safety plans are beneficial, they come with their own set of challenges. The dynamic nature of film and TV production means plans need to be adaptable. Additionally, ensuring buy-in from all crew members can be difficult. Based on available research, individual results may vary, but with a proactive approach, these challenges can be managed effectively.

By following these steps and utilizing tools like Pro Shield, project managers in the film and TV industry can create and implement safety plans that not only meet regulatory requirements but also foster a culture of safety and efficiency on set.