The Most Common Violations of 1910.133 - Eye and Face Protection in Film and Television Production

In the dynamic world of film and television production, safety can often take a backseat to the rush of creativity and tight schedules. However, adherence to OSHA standard 1910.133, which outlines requirements for eye and face protection, is crucial for preventing workplace injuries. Let's dive into the most common violations of this standard on set and explore how to address them.

Non-Compliance with Protective Equipment

One of the most frequent violations we see is the failure to wear the appropriate eye and face protection. Whether it's during special effects work, handling chemicals, or even simple tasks like hammering nails, the lack of proper safety goggles or face shields can lead to serious injuries. From my experience on various production sets, I've noticed that workers often prioritize speed over safety, neglecting to wear the necessary gear.

Inadequate Training and Awareness

Another common issue is the lack of proper training and awareness about when and how to use protective equipment. Many crew members might not fully understand the risks associated with their tasks or the specific types of eye and face protection required. This gap in knowledge can be addressed through regular safety training sessions, which should be a staple on every production set.

Improper Maintenance and Inspection

Ensuring that protective equipment is in good condition is also critical. I've seen instances where safety goggles were scratched or damaged, rendering them ineffective. Regular inspection and maintenance of all safety gear can prevent these violations. It's essential to have a system in place for checking and replacing equipment as needed.

Ignoring Hazard Assessments

Conducting thorough hazard assessments is a requirement under 1910.133, yet it's often overlooked on film and TV sets. These assessments help identify potential risks and determine the appropriate level of protection needed. Ignoring this step can lead to violations and, more importantly, accidents. We need to make hazard assessments a routine part of the production process.

Addressing the Violations

To tackle these common violations, production companies should:

• Implement strict policies requiring the use of eye and face protection during all hazardous activities.
• Conduct regular safety training sessions to educate crew members on the importance of protective gear and how to use it correctly.
• Establish a routine for inspecting and maintaining safety equipment to ensure it's always in top condition.
• Perform comprehensive hazard assessments before and during production to identify and mitigate risks.

By following these steps, production companies can significantly reduce the risk of violations and enhance overall safety on set. Based on available research, individual results may vary, but the importance of adherence to 1910.133 cannot be overstated.