Common Mistakes with ANSI Z359 Fall Protection in Film and TV Production

When it comes to fall protection on film and TV sets, the stakes are high. Mistakes can lead to serious injuries or worse, yet they're more common than you might think. Let's dive into the typical errors made with ANSI Z359 fall arrest and fall restraint systems in this dynamic industry.

Ignoring Proper Training

One of the biggest mistakes is assuming that crew members know how to use fall protection equipment correctly. In reality, without specific training on ANSI Z359 standards, even experienced professionals can misuse harnesses, lanyards, and anchorage points. I've seen cases where a lack of training led to crew members improperly connecting to anchor points, resulting in near-misses that could have been catastrophic.

Neglecting Equipment Inspections

Another frequent oversight is the failure to regularly inspect fall protection gear. Based on available research, equipment should be checked before each use, yet on many sets, this step is skipped. I recall a time when a worn lanyard, which hadn't been inspected, failed during a stunt, though fortunately, the performer was secured by a secondary system. Regular inspections are non-negotiable to ensure safety.

Using Inappropriate Equipment

Selecting the wrong type of fall protection equipment for the job is a common error. For instance, using a fall arrest system when a fall restraint system should be used can lead to unnecessary risks. Fall arrest systems are designed to stop a fall in progress, while fall restraint systems prevent reaching a fall hazard. Misunderstanding these differences can result in equipment misuse.

Overlooking Environmental Factors

Environmental conditions play a crucial role in fall protection. Yet, many productions fail to consider how weather or set conditions might affect equipment performance. For example, using a fall arrest system in wet conditions without checking for equipment compatibility can lead to failures. We must always assess the environment and adjust our safety measures accordingly.

Failing to Update Safety Plans

Safety plans must evolve with the production. A common mistake is sticking to an outdated plan that doesn't account for changes in set design or shooting locations. I've worked on projects where new scenes introduced different fall hazards, yet the safety plan remained unchanged, putting crew members at risk. Regular updates are essential to keep everyone safe.

Not Addressing Human Factors

Human factors like fatigue, stress, and rush can lead to mistakes with fall protection. On busy sets, crew members might bypass safety protocols to meet deadlines, which is a dangerous practice. I've seen firsthand how a rushed stunt setup led to improper harness fitting, nearly causing an accident. It's critical to prioritize safety over speed.

Understanding and avoiding these common mistakes can significantly enhance safety on film and TV sets. For those looking to deepen their knowledge, resources like the OSHA website provide detailed guidelines on fall protection standards and best practices.