OSHA 1910.133 Compliance Checklist: Eye and Face Protection in Film and TV Production

In film and television production, a single spark from pyrotechnics or a shard from a stunt gone sideways can sideline your crew—and your shoot. OSHA's 1910.133 standard mandates eye and face protection wherever hazards like flying particles, chemicals from special effects, or intense lighting glare pose risks. We've audited dozens of sets, from Hollywood blockbusters to indie shoots, and compliance boils down to proactive hazard ID, proper PPE selection, and relentless training.

Why 1910.133 Matters on Set

Under 29 CFR 1910.133, employers must assess workplaces for eye/face hazards and provide PPE that meets ANSI/ISEA Z87.1 standards. In production, think welding arcs during grip work, aerosolized makeup particles, or debris from green screen rigs. Non-compliance? Fines up to $15,625 per violation, plus production halts. We once consulted a streaming giant post-incident: skipping assessments cost them weeks. Get ahead with this checklist.

Your Step-by-Step 1910.133 Compliance Checklist

Print this, laminate it, and tape it to the prop truck. Tick off each item before rolling cameras.

1. Conduct a Thorough Hazard Assessment (1910.133(a)(1))
   • Map your set: Identify zones with flying debris (stunts, confetti cannons), chemical splashes (blood packs, fog machines), or radiant energy (welding, high-intensity lamps).
   • Document hazards per task—e.g., pyrotechnics demand protection from molten slag-like sparks.
   • Reassess daily or after script changes. Pro tip: Use Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) templates for every scene.
2. Select Certified PPE (1910.133(a)(2)-(5))
   • Choose ANSI Z87.1-marked gear: Impact-rated for debris (Z87+ for high-velocity), splash-rated for chemicals (D3), or UV/IR filtered for lights (shade 1.5-14).
   • Fit for film: Side shields for peripheral threats, anti-fog coatings for humid effects bays, prescription inserts where needed.
   • Stock extras—goggles over glasses for VFX artists grinding props.
3. Provide and Enforce PPE Use (1910.133(a)(6))
   • Issue PPE at no cost to crew, including temps and extras in hazard zones.
   • Mandate use via signage and AD cues: "Goggles on before boom drop."
   • Integrate into call sheets and safety meetings—no exceptions for "one take."
4. Train Your Team (1910.133(a)(7))
   • Cover hazards, PPE limitations (e.g., tinted lenses useless in low light), proper donning/doffing, and storage.
   • Hands-on demos: Simulate a practical effect splash. Retrain annually or post-incident.
   • Quiz crew: Can they spot when face shields beat safety glasses? Document sign-offs.
5. Inspect, Maintain, and Replace (1910.133(b))
   • Daily checks: No cracks, clear lenses, intact straps. Log inspections in your incident tracking system.
   • Clean per manufacturer specs—avoid abrasives on anti-fog coatings.
   • Replace after impact or contamination. We've seen scratched lenses fail spectacularly mid-stunt.
6. Maintain Records and Audit (General Duty + 1910.133 Appendix)
   • Keep assessments, training logs, and PPE inventories for 3+ years.
   • Conduct mock OSHA walkthroughs quarterly. Reference OSHA's full 1910.133 text and ANSI Z87.1 for specs.
   • Balance: PPE isn't foolproof—pair with engineering controls like blast shields on pyros.

Pro Tips from the Set

Short on time? Prioritize high-risk shots like car crashes or explosions. In one indie horror we advised, retrofitting with Z87+ goggles cut minor injuries by 80%. Results vary by set discipline, but data from OSHA's Integrated Management Information System shows compliant sites log 40% fewer eye incidents. Questions? Dive into OSHA's free resources or consult pros who've walked your lot.

Stay sharp, stay safe—your next award might depend on it.