What a roller coaster these past couple months have been! As we emerge out of the COVID-19 fog, film production companies need to be proactive when it comes to mitigating risks. Here are a couple of key points to keep in mind when planning your next project:
Keep your distance! – As a collaborative community, we’re used to being close. Be mindful of your crew’s health by emailing each other when possible to maintain social distancing. Keep everyone at least 6 ft away from each other by connecting laptops or computers onto larger screens. Make sure everyone on set has a mask and is using it when in close quarters.
Sanitize, sanitize, sanitize! – Make sure you have disinfectant on set at all times. If your crew is going off set, make sure they have a handheld bottle of sanitizer on them. Set up a PPE station and make sure everyone on set knows the location. Rental houses are doing everything to make sure their clients are safe but it’s good practice to sanitize a 2nd or 3rd time once equipment is on set to ensure everyone’s safety.
Think ahead! – Different counties are starting to re-open. When the film permits start flowing, so will the applicants. Prepare yourself by pre-filling applications, scheduling your crew and getting the correct insurance in place. Then… hold onto your butts! You want to account for slower processing times by giving yourself (and others) ample time before your shoot.
Cover yourself! – Many insurance companies are excluding coverage for COVID-19. You’re better off erring on the side of caution by making sure those who are higher contact risks by providing resources so they feel comfortable or having them work remotely. Most insurers are requiring a temperature screening or a questionnaire be completed before permitting entrance to the location.
What about Worker’s Comp for Film Production?
If you need Worker’s Compensation, insurers are more stringent on providing coverage. Outline a plan that answers the following questions:
- Will masks, gloves, disinfectants, thermometers be provided?
- Are there procedures in place to evaluate locations for safety procedures?
- Are there procedures to address situations where proper PPE is not provided or unavailable?
- Has a film permit been issued?
- Are the locations being used closed off to public access?
- Is equipment shared among crew or cast? If so, is there a method for cleaning? How often is the equipment cleaned?
- Are all entering the workplace screened prior to entering via temperature check or symptoms questionnaire?
- Is social distancing followed (at least 6 ft)? If not, are their other physical barriers?
- Is there safety education to promote safe work practices?
American Entertainment Insurance (AEI) understands the difficulties that the entertainment industry has faced in the past few months and want to do everything we can to support you! If you’re a current client, reach out to your agent to see if there is anything possible to help with costs. If you’re planning a new film production, we can guide you in keeping your insurance costs minimal so you can focus on the big picture.
We can’t wait to see what you have created during quarantine! Keep rollin’, America!
Written by Jessica Hewitt on Wednesday, June 10th. Looking for a quote on your new project? Call us Monday – Friday, 8 am – 5PM PST: 800-980-1950 or email us anytime!