BC COVID-19 Pandemic Production Guide
This information comes from UBCP (Union of BC Performers) with a focus on performers. The full pandemic production guide contains more broad information and is linked within this post.
PURPOSE
The BC Motion Picture Industry Covid-19 Best Practices Coalition (the “Coalition”) developed this COVID-19 Pandemic Production Guide in collaboration with representatives from across BC’s Motion Picture Industry . This guide is intended to support the assessment and management of COVID-19 risk in all types of production, and to assist employers in developing their own COVID-19 safety plans.
Employers in BC are required by regulation to develop a COVID-19 Safety Plan that outlines the policies, guidelines, and procedures they have put in place to reduce the risk of COVID-19 transmission. This plan should follow the six steps outlined in WorkSafeBC’s COVID-19 and returning to safe operation guidance.
Everyone working in the film and television industry needs to consider how to prevent the spread of COVID-19 at work.
HERE ARE SOME HIGHLIGHTS THAT PERTAIN TO PERFORMERS:
Interactions with performers
Consider requiring any individuals who interact in close proximity with a performer to wear a mask and face shield and to wash/sanitize hands. Any such interactions, especially if the performer is not able to wear a mask, should be kept as brief as possible.
Close proximity and intimacy
Consider alternative methods to achieve film sequences such as shooting scenes at angle such that physical distancing can be maintained. Consider scheduling those scenes strategically and seek the advice of trained specialists (i.e. for stunt and/or intimacy) to discuss protocols and reduced risk options for the preparation and performance of such scenes. The performer has the right to refuse close contact with other performers, such as hugging, kissing, and stunts requiring close contact
Background
Consider Providing background holding and change areas that allow for at least 5 square metres/person, including arranging for background holding to be outdoors, if possible, and weather permitting.
Stunts
Areas dedicated and isolated for training and rehearsals should be large enough to allow for ample physical distancing and ventilation.
Minors
Consideration should be given to extra time, planning, and diligence that may be required when child performers will be on set (for e.g. for young children who may find physical distancing difficult).
Voice over
Consider avoiding group recording sessions that require more than one person to be in the recording booth at a time, especially when singing or vocal projections are required.
Hair and Makeup
Disinfecting all hair and makeup products, tools and equipment with appropriate disinfecting solutions or equipment (e.g. UVCs) after each use.
Additional measures to limit instances in which multiple individuals will be required to use or interact with the same equipment or materials for hair and makeup, may include:
Providing makeup application tools and supplies for each performer and use only on that individual. Keep in individually labeled bags.
Mixing makeup on disposable palettes, as possible. Use only one “Reel Hair Colour Palette” per performer, or, depot “Reel Colour” refill into a smaller container.
De-potting hair and makeup products, artificial blood, etc. where possible.
Casting
Performers should be advised in advance of audition if close contact or intimacy is a requirement of the script. Those performers engaged without an audition, such as stunt performers, stand-ins, photo-doubles and background performers should be advised in advance of booking.
HOW TO USE THIS DOCUMENT
This guide contains general considerations applicable to all productions, departments and workplaces as well as guidance specific to various departments.
This guide is a living document. Guidance is based on the most current public health information and government orders with respect to COVID-19 restrictions and will be revised and updated as appropriate. Up-to-date information may be found by following the links throughout the guide and in the resources section at the end of this document.
This guide is intended to be neither an all-encompassing safety program, nor legal or medical advice. Due to the evolving COVID-19 situation, these guidelines should be used only in conjunction with a regular review of applicable legislation and up-to-date guidance from government and public health authorities.
