Can your film production rise from the ashes?
With blazing fires wreaking destruction across the Cape Peninsula, businesses and individuals have more or less familiarised themselves with the inherent risks that fire poses. This risk is however pronounced when venturing into the film production industry due to the extent of filming on various differing locations whether it be in the forest or in the house on the hill.
“In the film industry, special effects often pose a significant fire hazard and can include car explosions, simulated bullet hits, burning buildings, flames, flash pots, in addition to computer and model simulations and a multitude of other situations. The most dangerous types of special effects involve the use of fire, pyrotechnics and firearms, which are often conducted by stunt doubles due to the inherent risk posed to the actors,” says Romy Nomis of Aon South Africa.
Leading up to a film shoot, pre-production hazards such as the construction and painting of sets, which may use combustible materials to save on budget, can involve a wide variety of health and safety hazards. The risk of unique fire perils is further amplified due to filming and other activities taking place in temporary and varying locations.
Examples include blocked exits and emergency routes, electrical and lighting hazards, accumulation of combustible materials, smoking, welding and cutting operations, hot surfaces, combustible tents and make-shift refuelling facilities.
The consequential costs of fire for a film studio or producer are more complex, and underestimated. “Damage to the structure of the building is one thing, but on a film set it could also impact sets, video and lighting equipment, editing suites and completed material awaiting editing – all of which represents a hefty financial quantum. It disrupts the entire production and has far reaching consequences. Delays could potentially also incur production penalties and lost contracts, due to rebuilding of sets, actors being unavailable and having to source specialised equipment to name a few,” adds Nomis.
As risk advisors and specialist insurance brokers, with the added expertise of an experienced Risk Management team, Aon assists clients with practical knowledge of building codes, fire codes as promoted by various specialist bodies, as well as knowledge of construction materials, manufacturing processes, storage practices and the relevant dangers unique to specific industries – from assets to the business interruption implications. By linking this to an aligned insurance programme that covers virtually all the ‘what if’ scenarios of not only physical damage but the knock-on implications for business continuity, clients get to experience the real value of a comprehensive fire risk analysis.
Consulting with the local fire brigade as well as a fire and safety expert on a regular basis is a must in planning, as is the hire of fire and safety equipment for specific scenes.
Some ways to prevent fire related incidents are:
- An initial risk assessment, is crucial
- Identification of hazardous materials and the safe storage thereof
- Instruct/train crew members on proper use of materials and all safety measures
- Drafting an appropriate emergency response and evacuation plan
- Evacuation of non-essential crew and cast prior to high risk filming
Fire risk in the film production industry is not that different to that of commercial businesses, and according to Clayton Ellary, a senior account executive at Aon South Africa, fire is a hugely underrated risk.
“Failure to comply with statutory requirements and codes of practice applicable to fire protection and health and safety can leave business stakeholders in severe financial crisis with potential legal implications. The costs arising out of the loss of life, assets and business interruption can amount to millions of rands in damages and liability claims. Despite the risk to business continuity, financial security and brand reputation, many business owners remain indifferent to the domino effect that a fire poses to their business sustainability,” he explains.
A comprehensive fire prevention strategy linked to an insurance programme that fully addresses the needs of a business is critical. “A clear description of a business and its operational environment is central to the drafting of a well-conceived insurance policy as the type of materials that are kept on site greatly affect the associated fire risks. A comprehensive fire risk assessment will help to identify fire hazards and reduce the risk, in addition to determining what physical precautions and management processes should be in place. It’s also very important to have an accurate assessment of the replacement costs of buildings, contents, vehicles, IT, props and other assets, particularly in the event of a catastrophic loss,” Clayton adds.
The services of a professional broker could well prove to be invaluable in evaluating your exposure to a catastrophic event, such as a fire. “A broker can ensure that you are in good hands in the event of a catastrophe and that there are no surprises waiting for you when you claim,” Clayton concludes.
By Aon South Africa
