Health and safety on a video production set is a legal obligation under UK health and safety legislation, not a formality that can be skipped on smaller productions. Productions that treat safety as bureaucracy tend to discover its importance at the worst possible moment. A pre-shoot safety checklist is the practical tool that ensures every location has been assessed, every risk has been considered, and every crew member knows their responsibilities before cameras roll.
Risk assessment
A written risk assessment is required for any professional video production. It should cover: location-specific hazards (electrical, trip, structural), working at height (lighting rigs, drone operations, elevated camera positions), manual handling (heavy equipment, multiple trips up stairs), lone working where applicable, and any particular hazards specific to the brief (pyrotechnics, water, extreme weather). The risk assessment should be shared with all crew members and signed off before shoot day.
Electrical safety
Electrical hazards are among the most common on production sets. Check: all cables are in good condition (no exposed wiring, no damaged connectors), extension leads are rated for the total load of connected equipment, no cables are creating trip hazards (tape down or cover all cables in walkways), RCD protection is in use on any unfamiliar power supply, and no equipment is used near water without appropriate protection rating. A non-competent person should not be rewiring or modifying any electrical equipment on set.
Manual handling
Equipment cases, lighting stands, and camera rigs can be heavy. Brief crew on correct manual handling technique, especially for stairs or extended carry distances. Designate helpers for heavy lifts rather than expecting one person to manage alone. Mark heavy cases clearly. Ensure dollies or trolleys are available for locations where multiple heavy cases must be transported efficiently.
First aid provision
Every production should carry a basic first aid kit and have at least one crew member who knows how to use it. On larger productions, a trained first aider should be on set. Ensure first aid kit contents are checked and complete before the shoot. Know the nearest hospital to your location and have the address ready in case it is needed.
Fire safety and emergency procedures
On every location: identify all fire exits before the shoot begins, brief all crew and clients on the fire evacuation procedure, confirm that fire equipment in the space is current and accessible, and ensure no lighting or equipment is placed near flammable materials. If using hot lighting (tungsten or HMI), maintain safe distances from fabrics, foam, and any combustible staging.
Documentation and compliance
Maintain production safety documentation: the risk assessment, public liability insurance certificate, employer's liability insurance if crew are employees, and any location-specific permits or licences. On commercial productions, this documentation may be required by the location owner or broadcaster before the shoot is permitted to proceed. The video shoot day checklist on FileFeedback tools includes a safety and compliance section that prompts you through these requirements.
“A crew injury on set is a production disaster and a legal liability. Safety checklists exist because prevention is infinitely better than response.”
On-set safety minimum requirements
- Written risk assessment completed and shared with crew
- Electrical safety checked: cables, loads, RCD protection
- Manual handling plan in place for heavy equipment
- First aid kit packed and crew member knows contents
- Fire exit and evacuation route identified and communicated
- Insurance documentation available on request
- Location permits or licences in hand if required
Frequently asked questions
Do I need public liability insurance for a small corporate video shoot?
Yes. Most corporate locations and commercial clients require evidence of public liability insurance (typically minimum £5 million cover) before allowing production on their premises. It is also a professional standard, not just a legal technicality.
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