Is your production ready for extreme heat?

Protecting cast and crew during summer shoots

Dear Production Team,

Extreme heat can have a significant impact on the health, safety and performance of cast and crew, particularly during outdoor shoots, location filming, set construction and other physically demanding production activities.

Long working hours, direct sun exposure, heavy costumes, personal protective equipment, limited shade and physically demanding tasks can increase the risk of heat stress.

Production companies should therefore assess heat-related risks in advance, monitor weather conditions and introduce appropriate preventive and organisational measures throughout every stage of production.

Can your crew recognise the warning signs?

Heat-related illness may initially cause:

headaches and dizziness;
dehydration;
excessive sweating;
muscle cramps;
nausea and weakness;
confusion or general discomfort.

Without prompt action, these symptoms may develop into heat exhaustion or, in the most serious cases, heat stroke.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency and may involve a body temperature above 40°C, confusion, altered consciousness or loss of consciousness.

Particular attention should be paid to crew members carrying out strenuous activities, wearing heavy costumes or PPE, working in direct sunlight or returning to work after a period away from hot conditions.

Five key measures for safer summer productions

1. Keep cast and crew hydrated

Drinking water should be readily available across all working areas, including the set, unit base, workshops and technical areas.

Cast and crew should be encouraged to drink regularly throughout the day, before feeling thirsty.

Alcohol, energy drinks and drinks with a high sugar content should be avoided during periods of heat exposure.

2. Provide shade and suitable rest areas

Productions should provide shaded, ventilated or air-conditioned areas where workers can take regular breaks.

Where possible, holding areas, costume areas, make-up stations and catering facilities should be protected from direct sunlight and excessive heat.

The frequency and duration of breaks should be increased according to temperature, humidity, workload and exposure conditions.

3. Review costumes, clothing and PPE

Lightweight, breathable and light-coloured clothing should be worn whenever compatible with the role and the required safety equipment.

Productions should also provide or encourage the use of:

suitable head protection;
sunglasses;
high-factor sunscreen;
breathable helmet liners;
additional shading for fixed workstations.

Particular attention should be given to performers wearing heavy costumes, prosthetics or make-up that may affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature.

4. Adapt the shooting schedule

Where operationally possible, the most demanding activities should be scheduled during the cooler hours of the day.

Productions should consider:

avoiding prolonged outdoor work between 11:00 and 17:00;
rotating crew members carrying out strenuous tasks;
reducing unnecessary waiting time in direct sunlight;
rescheduling non-essential activities;
allowing workers to acclimatise gradually;
reviewing call times and shooting schedules during heat alerts.

Weather and heat-risk forecasts should be checked before and throughout the shooting day.

5. Prepare for heat-related emergencies

If a crew member develops heat cramps, dizziness, nausea or weakness, they should immediately stop working and move to a cool or shaded area.

In the event of suspected heat stroke:

call 112 or contact the production’s designated first aid personnel immediately;
move the person to a shaded or cool area;
remove unnecessary clothing;
cool the person using water and ventilation;
provide small sips of water only if the person is fully conscious.

Do not administer fever-reducing medication or alcohol.

Prevention begins during pre-production

Heat-related risks can be anticipated and effectively managed through proper planning, clear communication and appropriate on-set procedures.

Framinia Services supports film, television, advertising and audiovisual productions with:

heat-risk assessments;
production-specific Health & Safety procedures;
weather and heat-risk monitoring;
cast and crew information;
emergency planning;
on-set Health & Safety assistance.

Is your production prepared for the next heatwave?

Contact Framinia Services to review your preventive measures and protect your cast and crew throughout the summer production season.