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The Texas film industry has experienced major growth in recent years, with film, TV, and commercial production contributing nearly $2 billion to the state's economy in 2022 and supporting over 54,000 jobs. As cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston become sought-after filming destinations, several large studios are under construction across the state, including in San Marcos, Bastrop, Mansfield, and Fort Worth.
With this growth comes an increased need to maintain high safety standards in film production. Here are key guidelines to help keep film crews safe:
1 Plan for safety in pre-production.
Safety begins long before filming starts. Scout locations thoroughly to identify potential hazards. Hold planning meetings with key crew members to review safety concerns and to ensure everyone knows their responsibilities. Make sure call sheets include safety information, such as emergency contacts and nearby emergency facilities.
2 Follow on-set safety practices.
Conduct daily safety briefings to address any specific hazards for that day’s shoot, particularly if stunts or special effects are involved. Keep the crew informed about current weather and shooting conditions that could impact safety. Ensure fire lanes and emergency exits are always clear, and that work areas remain tidy to avoid tripping hazards. Secure cables with mats or gaffer’s tape to prevent accidents. Provide necessary personal protective equipment like helmets and gloves, ensuring they are accessible to the crew. Always inspect equipment, including ladders, before use to ensure safety.
3 Address special safety needs.
For any high-risk activities, such as stunts or pyrotechnics, hire qualified professionals with experience in handling these tasks safely. Treat all weapons on set, including props, as if they are real, and ensure they are always handled by trained personnel. Limit shooting days to no more than 12 hours to avoid fatigue, which can increase the likelihood of accidents. Have firefighting equipment readily available and ensure it is in working condition.
4 Hire and train safe crews.
When hiring crew, choose safety-conscious individuals, especially for key roles like the first assistant director and key grip. Ensure that crew members are trained in areas such as electrical safety, working at heights, and emergency procedures. Encourage crew members to pursue safety certifications and to stay updated on industry best practices. Cultivate an environment where safety concerns can be openly communicated and addressed.
5 Prepare for emergencies.
Have a clear emergency response plan in place for each shoot location and ensure all crew members are familiar with the procedures. Monitor crew for signs of heat exhaustion when in hot conditions and ensure anyone affected is given a chance to cool down and rest.
6 Have insurance protection.
Ensure that your production is covered by appropriate insurance to protect against accidents, injuries, or property damage, offering peace of mind for all involved.
7 Always keep safety a top priority.
Any hazards should be reported immediately. Union members can report to the IATSE Safety Hotline at 844-422-9273.
For more information on workplace safety, download or stream any of DWC’s free health and safety publications or videos. You can also contact a safety training specialist at 800-252-7031, option 2, or safetytraining@tdi.texas.gov.