Here at Jim’s Test & Tag, we work with customers in a wide range of industries. A lot of our technicians are lucky enough to work with clients in the film and television industry. Test and tag requirements apply to all workplaces – film and television sets are no exception.
Film and television sets are exciting places, but they have to follow workplace safety rules just like every other business. To shed a bit of light on the work we do in this industry, we’ve put together a little guide to test and tag for film and television.
Lighting and Electrical Safety Guidelines
Lights, cameras, cables, and other equipment are an inevitable part of any production. As a standard rule, you need to make sure any mains powered electrical equipment is tested and inspected prior to use on your set.
Take a look at the following safety tips to help minimise risk during your production.
- Make sure all lights are connected to a safe electricity supply. This might mean using an extension cord with an in-built RCD.
- All lights and electrical boards need to be tested and tagged before “bumping in” to the venue. RCDs need to be tested and logs of all tests are required.
- All cabling needs electrical testing prior to use.
- If possible, make sure lights and other equipment are set up near the power supply. This will reduce the added risk of cables taking up floor space all over the set.
- If lengthy cables must be used, make sure they are secured and visible.
- Use cable ramps, fly cables, and rubber matting.
- Be aware that lights generate heat and can cause fires if they come into contact with flammable materials.
- If cast and crew members bring external electrical equipment, it must have electrical tagging and tests completed prior to use or be removed from the set. These items may include the following:
- hair dryers, straighteners, and other hair styling equipment
- portable cooking equipment
- phone chargers, laptop cords, and other personal electrical items
- heaters and fans
- any miscellaneous items that operate on the mains power supply
These test and tag for film and television guidelines apply to theatres and any other performance venues. Student productions are not exempt from these requirements and should refer to their university handbook for specific institutional requirements.
If you fail to meet these workplace safety requirements, you will be penalised. If you are a part of a professional production, your organisation, and possible individuals, will be liable. If you are completing a student production and you fail to meet university guidelines, in most cases, the individual in charge of the production is liable.
Always read through your organisation’s test and tag for film and television rules before commencing work. Every guide should refer to the AS/NZS 3760:2010 standard for the in-service safety inspection and testing of electrical equipment. If you suspect that the rules for your organisation are outdated or incorrect, contact us now.
We are experts in equipment and appliance testing. When you work with us, you can be sure that all the advice you receive is based on the current Australian standards for safety testing. We have access to a wealth of industry resources to ensure your production receives compliant testing services.
Production Office Safety
Test and tag for film and television isn’t limited to sets – production offices need attention too! If your production has an administrative base (and most do), they are subject to the same safety requirements of any office in Australia. Make sure the following items are inspected regularly, according to the AS/NZS 3760:2010 standard:
- computers, printers, photocopiers
- chargers, cables, power boards
- portable fans and heaters
- coffee machines, microwaves, and other portable cooking equipment
For more information about our services for offices, contact us today on 131 546 and get a free quote! Alternatively, you can fill out the online form.
