Health and Safety Legislation and Regulations
Expert-defined terms from the Certificate in Safety in Film and Television Industry course at London School of International Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a globally recognised certification pathway.
Accident #
An unplanned, unwanted event that results in injury or damage. In the context of health and safety legislation and regulations in the film and television industry, accidents must be reported to the relevant authorities and investigated to prevent future occurrences.
Asbestos #
A group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in building materials until the 1970s due to their fire-resistant and insulating properties. Asbestos is now known to be highly carcinogenic and its removal and management are strictly regulated.
Control Measures #
Steps taken to reduce or eliminate risks associated with hazards in the workplace. Control measures can include engineering controls (e.g., ventilation), administrative controls (e.g., training), and personal protective equipment (e.g., hard hats).
Duty of Care #
The legal obligation of employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of their employees. This includes providing a safe working environment, adequate training, and proper equipment.
Electrical Safety #
The practices and procedures used to prevent electrical hazards and injuries. This includes regular inspections and testing of electrical equipment, proper grounding and bonding, and the use of personal protective equipment.
Emergency Planning #
The process of developing and implementing plans for responding to emergencies, such as fires, chemical spills, or natural disasters. Emergency plans should include evacuation procedures, emergency contact information, and designated emergency response teams.
Fire Safety #
The practices and procedures used to prevent and respond to fires in the workplace. This includes regular inspections and maintenance of fire safety equipment, proper storage and handling of flammable materials, and the development and implementation of fire evacuation plans.
Hazard #
A source of potential harm or adverse health effect. In the context of health and safety legislation and regulations in the film and television industry, hazards can include chemical exposure, electrical hazards, and physical hazards (e.g., falling objects).
Hazardous Substances #
Chemicals or materials that pose a risk to health and safety. These substances must be properly labeled, stored, and handled in accordance with regulations to minimize the risk of exposure.
Incident Report #
A written record of an accident, near miss, or other safety-related event. Incident reports should include details of the event, the individuals involved, and any actions taken to prevent future occurrences.
Manual Handling #
The process of manually lifting, carrying, or moving objects. Manual handling tasks can pose a risk of injury, and proper techniques and equipment must be used to minimize this risk.
Noise #
Sound that is above a certain level and can cause harm to hearing. In the film and television industry, noise can come from a variety of sources, including machinery, generators, and special effects. Noise levels must be monitored and controlled to protect workers' hearing.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) #
Equipment worn by workers to protect them from hazards. PPE can include hard hats, gloves, safety glasses, and respirators.
Risk Assessment #
The process of identifying and evaluating the risks associated with a particular task or activity. Risk assessments should be conducted regularly and whenever new hazards are introduced into the workplace.
Safe Working Practices #
Procedures and guidelines for working safely in the film and television industry. These practices should be followed to minimize the risk of injury or illness.
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) #
Documents that provide information about the hazards and safe handling procedures for hazardous substances. SDSs must be readily available to workers and should be consulted before handling any hazardous substances.
Slips, Trips, and Falls #
Common types of accidents that can result in injury. Slips, trips, and falls can be caused by a variety of factors, including wet or uneven surfaces, poor lighting, and inadequate footwear.
Work at Height #
Any work that is carried out at a height where a person could be injured if they fell. In the film and television industry, work at height can include rigging, lighting, and camera operations. Special precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of workers at height.
Workplace Inspections #
Regular checks of the workplace to identify and address any hazards or unsafe conditions. Workplace inspections should be conducted by qualified personnel and should be documented.
Young Persons #
Individuals who are under the age of 18 and are employed in the film and television industry. Special regulations apply to the employment of young persons, including restrictions on working hours, and requirements for supervision and training.