Use of A-frames involves several safety risks: falls, the A-frame can be unstable on uneven surfaces or if not set up correctly increasing the chance of tipping over, and overloading can lead to structural failure.
Using cranes and jibs carry a number of safety implications that need careful management to ensure the safety of the crew and the equipment.
Mounting or handling the camera improperly can lead to accidents or injury, particularly in active or high-risk environments. Using the camera while performing other tasks can lead to distractions and potential accidents, especially in dynamic or hazardous settings.
Risks include musculoskeletal issues, slips, trips and falls, and collisions.
Equipment can lead to vehicle operation or driver view being obstructed. Use of eye-pieces can result in eye injury if the vehicle brakes or turns aggressively. Airbag deployment can result in impact injury from equipment striking the operator. Handling equipment in a restricted space can lead to musculoskeletal issues.
Incorrect set up can lead to equipment or operators falling from the vehicle. Poor communication between vehicles can result in safety issues not being addressed as quickly as possible.
A poor or badly managed route may lead to driver distraction or traffic disruption resulting in collision.
This operation should only be carried out by experienced, trained personnel (normally from a dedicated action vehicle company) who, together with the production Grip must ensure those travelling on the towing vehicle (and/or on the low loader itself) are safely harnessed where necessary, and equipment is secured.
The camera system’s cables and rigging can pose a risk of collision with people, equipment, or structures if not properly managed.
The rigging system must be securely installed and maintained to avoid potential failures that could cause the camera to fall or become dislodged.
Incorrect placement of equipment can lead to difficulty in operating the vehicle. Distraction can lead to collision with other road users, pedestrians or road furniture, and crew may be occupying the crumple zone of the vehicle making them more vulnerable if there is an impact.
The various steadicam mounting systems now available enable smooth tracking shots to be achieved in circumstances where a track and dolly would be either impossible or impractical - but never assume a steadicam can go anywhere
Crew members and actors can be injured by tracks or dollies if not properly secured or if safety protocols are ignored.
