Slips and Trips

Updated: 22 March 2024

What Can Go Wrong?

Injury through falling, slipping, tripping or collision when following action or moving on location or, in studio.
Tripping over cables, equipment or any variety of obstacles.
Falling down steps.

The law requires that a duty of care is provided by the employer to the employee and members of the public; and that we protect and inform those less familiar with our work activity of the possibility of slips, trips, falls and bumps and ensure that the appropriate control measures are in place and understood by those concerned.

Effective on site location recces should always be carried out, spend a few minutes checking out the area you鈥檒l be working in.
When arriving at location, always spend a few minutes familiarising yourself with the area you will be working in. Check for rough ground, ice or slippery surfaces, obstructions etc before recording/filming on the move.
Wear shoes suitable for the local environment and weather conditions.
DO NOT wear flip flops or open toe shoes when working at festivals or in a broadcast compound. Metal track way can easily slice into unprotected toes.
Record/film from static positions where possible.
When moving to follow the action, consideration should be given to having a second person to guide camera operators (see Backwatching - Safety Short in Useful Documents)
Tracking backwards without a second person should only be carried out for very short distances, after a thorough check to ensure the ground is clear of obstacles and level. Ideally the move should also be rehearsed.
Avoid trailing cables, particularly across walkways and pedestrian routes.
Use mats to cover cables on the ground.
Use handhold / rail when getting in and out of technical/broadcast vehicles.
Wheel chair users and the those with sight impairment who may require special ramps and provisions for access and egress should be supported by a buddy.

Think about the different premises, structures, access and egress of buildings and temporary structures, at events equipment cables and final installation should take into account the possibility of anyone getting injured.