HOLLYWOOD UNIONS REACH AGREEMENT FOR STUDIO PRODUCTION SAFETY PROTOCOLS

Hollywood unions announced the deal they have reached with major studios regarding safety measures to help prevent the spread of Covid-19 as the industry allows production to restart amid the ongoing pandemic. “SAG-AFTRA members, along with their peers in other entertainment unions, are anxious to get back to work, but safety has to be the highest priority," said Gabrielle Carteris, president of the Screen Actors Guild-American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (SAG/AFTRA).

The agreement was made on the basis and accordance of the report, “Safe Way Forward,” issued by the union in June detailing the developments of guidelines from epidemiologists and other experts. "This agreement establishes sensible, science-based protocols that allow members to return to doing the work they love while managing risk. I am grateful to our sister unions, who pulled together during this extended crisis, as well as to the studios for collaborating on this important issue.”

Some of the new protocols include testing regimes and use of PPE. According to the report, each cast and crew member will be tested on the first day of work, then periodically throughout the production. Some form of the lab-based test will be required. Antigen and antibody tests will not be accepted. Cast members will be tested more frequently since social distancing won't always be possible.

The new rules provide for the implementation of a specialized “Zone” system, laying out barriers within where the individuals on set can flow based on proximity to cast, level of testing, PPE, and the extent to which physical distancing can be observed in the performance of their work.

The deal also includes COVID-19-related sick leave and quarantine pay, which could be used for testing positive, exhibiting symptoms, taking care of a sick household member, isolation, or quarantine. There are exceptions, but, generally, employees will receive quarantine pay.