Safety on film and TV sets

A new study has revealed serious concerns about safety standards on UK film and TV sets, including a dangerous long-hours culture.

The research was issued by the Bectu entertainment section of the Prospect specialists’ union and the Mark Milsome Foundation. It was released on the sixth anniversary of the death of camera operator Mark Milsome who died during a stunt that went wrong.

The study produced survey findings showing that nearly three-quarters of respondents said their own safety or that of a colleague has been compromised at work.

But crew fear that voicing their concerns would jeopardise their future employment.

The findings revealed “an overwhelming consensus” for improved safety training and protocols.

Almost all respondents had a 10-plus hour day as their most recent experience of a normal working day, not including travel, overtime or other unpaid working time.

Bectu national secretary Spencer MacDonald said people routinely worked “many months where scheduled working days last more than 12 hours”.