Understanding Risk Assessment in Film and Television Production

What is a Risk Assessment?

A Risk Assessment is a thorough examination of potential hazards that could cause injury, damage, or loss in the workplace. This assessment covers all areas of production, including activities, tasks, equipment, and locations. It should be conducted by individuals who are familiar with the production process and capable of identifying potential hazards. Additionally, those responsible for making decisions and controlling the production should be involved.

Purpose and Process of Risk Assessment

The findings and recommendations from the Risk Assessment are compiled into a report, which is circulated in advance of the shoot day and included on the call sheet. The assessment may address a range of issues, from serving hot drinks during night shoots to filming with animals, stunts, or dealing with location risks.

Risk Assessments help ensure that you work safely within your role and during your activities. On the day, it is crucial to familiarise yourself with your surroundings and remain vigilant. Continuously check that both your work and the work of others do not create hazardous situations.

Understanding Hazards and Risks

Officially, a hazard is anything with the potential to cause harm. Risk is the likelihood of this harm being realised, based on its severity and likelihood. The consequences of harm can range from minor injuries or work absences to serious injuries or even project shutdowns.

Categories of Hazards

• Materials: Paints, chemicals, vapours, glues, dust, sand, sawdust, etc.
• Environment: Low light levels, derelict buildings, asbestos, high volume (e.g., during rock videos), excessive temperatures, humidity, etc.
• Equipment: Must be fit for purpose, regularly maintained, and not obstruct escape routes or fire exits.
• People: Tasks should be performed by trained, qualified, and competent individuals who are alert and not overly tired. Be honest about your own training and experience.

Managing Identified Hazards

Once a hazard is identified, a list of controls should be agreed upon and noted in the Risk Assessment. A risk rating, typically classified as High, Medium, or Low, is then applied. Work should not proceed if a hazard is deemed high risk. Solutions must be found to eliminate or neutralise hazards before the shoot.

Common Risks and Safety Controls

One common cause of accidents is falling from height, which can occur from scaffolding, ladders, scissor lifts, cherry pickers, or false staircases. Always ensure that appropriate safety controls are in place when working with such equipment. Remember, the higher the elevation, the greater the risk. Risk management principles include:

• Eliminate hazards wherever possible.
• Reduce the risk by implementing safety measures.
• Isolate the hazard from people.
• Control the hazard using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as a last resort.

Legal Regulations and Reporting

Ensure you are familiar with the legal regulations relevant to your work, such as Working at Height, Electricity at Work, or Construction Design Management. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) website is a valuable resource for information on the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974) and related regulations.

If you notice something dangerous or out of place, do not attempt to fix it yourself if it falls outside your scope of work. Instead, promptly inform the responsible person so that they can address the issue.