Filmmaking / Directing : On Set Safety - Who is responsible? by Michael Neal

As many of you know there was a tragic accident in our industry last week with the death of 2nd camera assistant Sarah Jones and the injury of multiple crew when filming on a train trestle. This post is not to discuss this accident, it is to start a discussion on who is responsible for safety on a set and remind all to follow safety protocol when shooting. First I need to let everyone know that I am relatively new to industry. Couple of independent films, one major as department head, and some commercials. I am a member of IATSE 491. By my background and profession, Marine Coordinator/Water Safety, I look at safety on a set very carefully. As we all know above the line is supposed to provide a safe place to work...as we all know that doesn't always happen. My belief is it goes down the line...department heads need to look out for their and other crew, crew needs to look out for each other and we do need to look out for ourselves. Some us are older and that have seen more then others, need to be the voice of caution. On a union shoot there maybe more power behind the safety voice but lets look at other shooting going on. Shorts, Low budget Indie, Reality TV, Commercials My first real exposure to the business, I was part of reality show set in Costa Rica shooting for 2.5 months with no medic, no safety briefings,and this was a show that had 12 contestants and 16 crew off shore fishing. I have had reality shows come in town and shoot on and in the water with no real safety. I don't have any "real" answers but know we need to "Remember Sarah" while working on any type of project. I (you) maybe the only thing preventing another tragedy. mjn