Movie, TV Productions Continue COVID Safety Protocols

Oct. 1, 2022 — Movie, TV, and theatrical productions will proceed to observe COVID-19 security protocols as unions and studios negotiate a brand new return-to-work settlement, in line with the Directors Guild of America.

The present settlement, which was beforehand scheduled to run out on Friday, will probably be prolonged till the teams attain a brand new compromise. First adopted in September 2020, the settlement was initially set to run out in April 2021 however has been prolonged a number of occasions. 

The security protocols have allowed {industry} productions to maneuver ahead throughout the pandemic, taking into consideration the potential danger of an infection amongst actors and crew members based mostly on the manufacturing location and worker vaccination standing. During the previous two years, revised agreements have included guidelines for necessary vaccination, bodily distancing, COVID compliance officers, journey and transportation restrictions, and testing and masks necessities whereas filming or on stage.

Several weeks in the past, talks over a brand new model started between a number of unions — together with the Directors Guild of America (DGA), Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG-AFTRA), International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE), Hollywood Basic Crafts, and International Brotherhood of Teamsters — and the negotiating entity for studios, the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP).

Many producers and administrators have mentioned they plan on instructing productions to adjust to protocols within the present settlement, no matter whether or not the necessities are loosened, in accordance to The Hollywood Reporter

In latest weeks, SAG-AFTRA has had inner debates concerning the security protocols, the information outlet reported. An outspoken group within the group has opposed sure elements of the vaccine necessities for actors and crew members. Despite a board assembly in mid-September, nevertheless, the union determined to not modify any insurance policies concerning vaccine mandates.

When the industry-wide settlement underwent a renegotiation in July, unions and studios made two small adjustments to protocols round transportation and meals in areas the place COVID case numbers are excessive, the information outlet reported.

Now that the present an infection charges are low round Hollywood, Los Angeles County well being officers have ended a rule requiring masks on public transportation. However, a possible fall or winter surge in infections might change the precautions once more, the information outlet reported.