Preparing Students for Safer Productions

The next generation of producers, directors, camera operators and production managers are sitting in lecture theatres right now. Theyโ€™re learning how to tell stories, operate equipment and run productions. But before they step on to their first professional set, thereโ€™s another skill they need to understand: production safety.

Thatโ€™s why weโ€™re proud to launch our new Introduction to Production Safety course, designed specifically for university students studying media, television, film and safety-related subjects. The course helps students prepare for the wonderfully fast-paced (and sometimes chaotic) world of production.

Why Start Safety Education Early?

Safety culture shouldnโ€™t begin on someoneโ€™s first day of employment.ย By introducing safety principles during education, we can help shape an industry where safe working practices are second nature from the very start of a career.

Investing in students means investing in the future of the industry. When young professionals enter production already understanding hazards, responsibilities and risk management, everyone benefits.ย And to support this goal, weโ€™re offering the course to universities completely free*.

What the Course Covers

The Introduction to Production Safety course delivers training at the equivalent of an X2 Production Safety level, giving students a strong foundation in safe working practices within film and television production.ย Students will learn:

  • Their personal responsibilities for safety on set
  • How to work safely within production environments
  • The purpose and importance of risk assessments
  • How to identify hazards and assess risks
  • Practical steps for maintaining a safe working environment

The course combines engaging teaching with real-world examples from film and television productions, helping students understand how safety works in practice rather than just in theory.

Participants will also have the opportunity to discuss real media safety scenarios with experienced TV and film safety professionals, providing valuable insight into the challenges faced on professional productions.

Helping Universities Prepare Students for Industry

If you work with universities, film schools or education providers, or know students who would benefit from this training, weโ€™d love to start a conversation. Together we can help ensure the next generation of media professionals enter the industry with the knowledge and mindset needed to keep productions safe.

*SMALL PRINT: the free course is limited to one course per institution per academic year. Trainer travel expenses apply!

Specialist: Chris McNally

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Chris has supported productions from all types of programmes during his career. He joined First Option in 2013 from the BBC where he was a safety adviser to drama, entertainment and factual productions from entertainment shows through to Sports OBs. He has been Deputy Head of Safety since 2018 and now manages a team of consultants as well as overseeing a number of high-profile shows. He is also a trainer, in particular the presentation of our Senior Managersโ€™ Briefing, and one of the approved trainers for our internal IOSH Production Safety course.

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Article last updated on Mar 9th, 2026

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