health and safety

Health and Safety

In the modern world health and safety is becoming increasingly important. When working on a photo shoot there are many factors to think about, you must be mindful of so many things, from a small trip to working with toxic chemicals.

There are certain responsibilities that must be upheld by certain people. It is the duty of the employer to ensure the health and welfare in the work place at all times. For employees to take responsibility for there own actions.

When on location you must consider the following

·      That all members of staff have current and valid insurance

·      You have done accurate risk assessments

·      Have had a discussion with the customer and agree on where you can take photographs safely

·      Make sure adequate fire precautions are in place in cause of a fire.

·      Make sure all equipment is maintained and not damaged in a way that can cause harm to you or others.

·      Make sure everybody is trained to use the equipment safely.

Risk assessments are important. They identify the possible risks and hazards of a certain location. There are a few things a photographer should be aware of when on location, such as fire precautions, heavy lifting and the use of chemical substances.

It is illegal for a location not to have in date safety checked fire extinguishers . they must be clearly labelled and visible. You will also find on the walls little notices, informing you on were things like fire extinguishers and fire blankets are.

A photographer will often lift heavy equipment. To make sure that you can do this safely with out damaging the human torso, you must undergo training so that you lift with your legs and not your back.

Electrical safety. It is hugely important to make sure that all equipment is safety tested. You must make sure that the wiring is correctly insulated. You must keep records and carry out safety tests.

When working somewhere a crowd will be, a concert for example, it is recommended that you notify the crowd, through the use of signs. This is so that people know they may be filmed and they give their consent to be filmed.