Freelance safety advice cards

BECTU is producing a series of health and safety advice cards for freelances working in film and TV.

The cards provide basic advice on key safety issues and advise union members where to get further information.

BECTU National Official Martin Spence said: "Many people in the industry do not realise that in the eyes of the law most freelances are employees for the purposes of health and safety. This means that broadcasters, production companies, and facilities companies must take responsibility for freelance safety just as they would for permanent staff."

Each BECTU health and safety advice card folds neatly to fit into a pocket or wallet.

So far cards have been produced for camera units, carpenters, editors, first assistant directors, location safety, painters, plasterers, production/office workers, rigger/scaffolders and stagehands.

Union members should contact BECTU Head Office for copies of the cards.