Safety, Health and Security

General Safety Instructions and Procedures at Filming Locations:

• These guidelines are prepared to raise awareness among individuals working in the audiovisual sector, preparing them for potential health, safety, and security risks that may arise during production stages and/or related to their roles during production. To obtain filming permits, everyone is required to commit to a safe and healthy workplace environment. Since the Royal Film Commission of Jordan does not closely monitor the general safety practices at filming locations, everyone working in the film industry in Jordan is responsible for working safely. They should report any unsafe conditions or practices to the supervisor or person in charge. Most of these guidelines are based on common sense and practicality. Some of these guidelines are mandated by the government regulations. Failure to follow and comply with these guidelines may result in injuries, work delays, equipment damage, unnecessary expenses, and, in some cases, even fatalities.
• Please read these guidelines carefully and sign at the bottom of each page. (Please write the date along with your signature).
• It is recommended to always keep a copy of this document for reference when needed. The Royal Film Commission may provide you with an electronic or additional copy if necessary.
• All individuals working under the sponsorship of local production companies can obtain a copy of these guidelines.
• In addition to this document, please read and familiarize yourself with the guidelines for dealing with the Coronavirus (Covid-19) issued by the Royal Film Commission (Filming Guideline) and the guidelines related to sexual harassment.
• Furthermore, it is recommended to use the general safety bulletins issued by the Production Sound and Safety Committee for the motion picture and television industry, which adhere to the international standards. You can access these bulletins through the following link: https://www.csatf.org/production-affairs-safety/safety-bulletins/
• According to these guidelines, we recommend that production companies participating in high-risk activities, such as stunts, fireworks, and special effects, provide or appoint a qualified first aid responder or general safety coordinator. This individual should be present at all locations where hazardous work is being performed.
•  In the event of an accident on set, including but not limited to injuries requiring more than basic first aid, hospitalization (or death), significant damage to the location, negative interactions with the local public, or cases of harassment, the production company is responsible for coordinating and communicating with the relevant government authorities. The Royal Film Commission can assist in providing contact information for these authorities in emergency situations. They may also assist in coordinating with a private hospital that can provide ambulance and medical personnel, with all associated costs borne by the production company.
• If you have any questions, concerns, or need clarification regarding these guidelines, please do not hesitate to contact the Production Services department at the Royal Film Commission for further information.

 General Safety Meetings:

• Briefing sessions covering general safety topics must be held on the first day of work at a new location and on days when the production includes activities of medium to high risk, such as stunts, special effects, aircraft, animals, firearms, or other hazardous activities.
• All individuals required to attend these sessions must participate.
• All general safety meetings should be documented in the daily agenda.
•  Activities that may pose a risk to the daily agenda should be documented.

General Safety Guidelines for the Audiovisual Sector – Reference:

• You can find a complete list of general safety guidelines for the audiovisual sector on the following website: https://www.csatf.org/production-affairs-safety/safety-bulletins/. 
  Guidelines are issued by the Production Sound and Safety Committee for the audiovisual sector. It is recommended to download the latest version of these guidelines and include them in your daily agenda when conducting relevant activities.
•  Ensure that actors and crew members participating in potentially high-risk activities are fully aware of the activities covered by these guidelines.

General Safety Guidelines:

All productions must adhere to the following general safety guidelines. Most of these guidelines are based on common sense and practicality. Failure to follow and comply with these guidelines may result in injuries, work delays, equipment damage, production delays, site closures, or even fatalities. Working conditions can change from day to day, especially on location. To minimize the risk of accidents or injuries, always be aware of your work environment, the individuals involved, and the equipment being used. Attend all general safety meetings, understand the nature of the activities outlined in the daily agenda, and ask questions if you are unsure or concerned about certain activities being conducted. If you notice anything you believe could be hazardous, always bring the issue to the attention of the supervisor or the responsible person.

General Conduct:

• Attend any pre-production safety meetings and participate if you are working on that day.
• Report accidents, injuries, defective equipment, etc., to the supervisor or the responsible person, even if you consider them minor or unrelated.
•  Report any interference or disruption by employees, staff, or third-party contractors in production or safety operations.
• Report any missing or defective equipment that appears to be defective. Insist that defects (if found) be documented, or the equipment be replaced.
• Familiarize yourself with your emergency plan. If no plan is available, verify this with the supervisor or the person in charge.
• If your task requires you to work alone in dark or isolated areas, inform the supervisor of your location and activities. Inspect the area for hazards, identify an escape route, and ensure you have some form of communication (e.g., cell phone, radio).
• Ensure that visitors to the production site maintain a safe distance from hazards, construction operations, and equipment.
• Do not engage in noisy games, pranks, or disruptive behavior, in general.
• Do not use, modify, move, or remove any safety equipment unless it is necessary or authorized. If you are unsure how to properly use any equipment, stop and ask for assistance or delegate the task to someone capable of using the device.
•  Smoking is prohibited on soundstages and inside buildings. If a designated smoking area is identified, please use only that area for smoking. This applies to all products, including electronic cigarettes. Properly extinguish smoking products in appropriate containers/ashtrays.
• When lifting objects or machinery, it is recommended to lift them with your legs while squatting first. Do not lift objects with your back. Be cautious about bending your hips when carrying heavy loads. If you feel unable to lift a particular item - ask for assistance.
• Use ladders, work platforms, and ramps, etc., safely. Inspect ladders before using them. Pay attention to safety warnings from the manufacturer. Use ladders only on flat and stable surfaces. Do not place the ladder on an entrance, and do not stand on the top two steps of the ladder.
• When working above ground level (e.g., on a crane or forklift), ensure that the area below you is free of people, machinery, or equipment.
•  Understand, respect, and comply with the confidentiality agreements and guidelines for dealing with social media or public announcements provided to you by your organization, the Royal Film Commission, or others.

Visitors to Jordan:

•  Ensure that you have an easy and comfortable route to your shooting location, especially if it is in a remote area. If you are unsure how to reach your destination or the environment in which you will be working, or if you encounter any problems, do not hesitate to contact one of the employees of the Production Services department at the Royal Film Commission for the best guidance, general safety guidelines, or specific site behavior. Local facilities may be provided at your own expense if you desire. When going to unfamiliar areas, it is recommended to use a local guide.
• When driving to a distant location, prepare yourself in advance. Look for directions or the best routes. Ensure that your car is well-maintained and has enough fuel. Drive only in areas with designated roads or well-lit streets. Always wear a seatbelt and adhere to the speed limits on the roads. Make sure that all other passengers also wear seatbelts, and that the car does not exceed the maximum allowable number of passengers.
• Ensure that you are authorized to drive in Jordan. Check with your employer or car rental service provider for details regarding the rules applicable to international employees.
•  It is recommended to keep water, a light meal, and an extra set of clothes in your car.
• In emergency situations, call 911 or the relevant authorities first, and inform the Royal Film Commission of the emergency mentioned.

Clothing and Personal Protective Equipment:

• Always wear clothing and footwear appropriate for the job you are performing.
• Wear appropriate clothing according to the specific guidelines of your institution. Be aware that loose or oversized clothing, long hair, jewelry, and the like can get caught in certain machinery or equipment and should not be worn.
• Wear gloves if you are exposed to potential injuries, burns, or chemical substances. If you are unsure about the composition of a particular solution or substance, it is recommended to wear gloves.
• Use a face or eye protector when working in places where there is a risk of eye injury, such as slip hazards, hazardous materials, flying particles, bright lights, and the like.
• Use protective goggles when cutting, grinding, or welding if it falls within your responsibilities. Wear a hard hat if you will be exposed to potential falling objects.

Weather Conditions:

• From June to September, the weather in Jordan can be extremely hot, especially in the desert areas. Make sure you have an adequate supply of water. It is recommended to carry a bottle of water with you. It is advised to drink 2 to 2.6 liters of water daily while working in remote areas.
• It is recommended to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when working outdoors, especially in the desert areas.
• Be alert for symptoms of heat-related illnesses. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, high body temperature, profuse sweating, and muscle cramps.
• Contact the emergency team and move to a cool area. Use a towel soaked in cold water on your body if you feel you may be suffering from a heat-related illness.
• Winter can sometimes bring heavy rain leading to increased risks of flash floods. Make sure you are aware of exit routes from your location if rain is heavy and does not appear to be subsiding. Stay informed about expected weather conditions in advance.

Lifting Objects & Movement:

• Trying to lift heavy loads improperly or without the required strength can lead to injury. Ask for assistance if an object is too heavy for you to move by yourself. Whenever possible, use hand trucks, dollies, and the like to move items. Using proper lifting techniques will help prevent back injuries, strained muscles, or stress. If you must lift something by yourself, lift it with your legs - not your back.

Fall Hazards (from walkways, ramps, floor openings, guardrails, ladders, and sloping surfaces):

• Be constantly aware of your surroundings when walking on or around the site. Ensure proper lighting and warning signs are in place where needed. Use safety belts or other fall protection equipment when necessary. It is particularly important to use fall protection equipment when working above ground level or in areas without guardrails.

Hazardous Materials:

• Hazardous materials can be categorized as fuels, explosives, paint products, solvents, acids, compressed gas cylinders, aerosol cans, adhesives, dyes, cosmetics, lubricants, and more. These substances can pose health risks if not handled safely or properly.
• Store the mentioned materials in appropriate containers and do not allow them to accumulate in work areas. Avoid consuming food, drinks, or smoking in areas where hazardous materials are present. Additionally, dispose of hazardous materials properly in accordance with applicable laws and under direct supervision. Whenever possible, obtain Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) from the manufacturers.

Tools:

• Always use the appropriate tool for the job you are performing. Ensure that the equipment used is in good condition and functioning properly. Report any damaged, defective, or malfunctioning tools. Store tools and equipment in the proper place and in a suitable manner.
• Avoid areas where power tools are being used unless you are required to be there.
• Unless authorized by the supervisor, do not attempt to repair tools or machinery.
• Do not use the top two steps of any ladder. Ensure that ladders are in good working condition and that the base is always secure when in use. Store ladders properly when not in use.

Transportation (Trains, Helicopters, Drones, etc.):

• Exercise caution and be alert when walking or driving in crowded areas. Proceed slowly and be aware of sudden movements. Always turn on your headlights when working after sunset or before sunrise.

Helicopters:

• If there is a helicopter present or near the production site, proceed with caution. Do not approach to a distance less than 100 feet (30.4 meters) unless authorized. If the pilot or safety crew allows you to be close to the helicopter, approach and move away from it from the front, whether its rotor blades are spinning or not.
• Do not smoke or extinguish cigarettes within 50 feet (15.2 meters) of any helicopter.

Drones:

• f you are operating a drone, make sure you know how to fly it properly in advance. Always keep the drone within your line of sight. Do not fly near people, buildings, or areas beyond your control. Keep the drone away from vehicles or emergency response equipment.
• Ensure that you have obtained the required approvals from the relevant government agencies for operating a drone. Legal action can be taken against you if you use a drone without prior approval.
• Do not fly the drone except in well-lit areas. It is not recommended to fly the drone before sunrise or after sunset.
• Pay attention to the drone's battery levels. Most drones do not fly for extended periods.
• Ensure that the use of drones is scheduled and included in the daily agenda. Be aware of possible weather conditions or material obstacles that may arise.
• Using aircraft, trains, cars, or boats may require special permits while filming in Jordan. Vehicles and safety equipment must be checked daily. Ensure that the vehicle used has the necessary permits for use.
• The production company is responsible for obtaining all necessary approvals from the relevant authorities before using vehicles. The Royal Film Commission may assist you in contacting the relevant authorities upon request.

Electrical Safety:

•  Ensure that all equipment and electrical wires are properly maintained and used for their intended purpose only. Be cautious when using electrical equipment and wires around water.

Water Hazards:

• The cast and crew working in, on, or around water must wear life jackets.
• Always follow the instructions of the boat crew. Only essential crew members should be allowed to shoot on the water.
• Be aware of all risks associated with water, including its quality and potential marine life.

Stunts & Special Effects:

• Always conduct a rehearsal or practice session before shooting with special effects or stunts. Document the rehearsal in the daily agenda. Review and discuss all stunts and effects with all participants before executing them to ensure that they are performed safely. Relevant safety data sheets should be attached to the daily schedule and reviewed during the daily safety meeting.
• Effects of fireworks should be observed in advance. Obtain the necessary permits as required. Fireworks should only be handled by qualified individuals.
• Personal protective equipment such as eye and ear protection should be provided to team members for their safety. All actors and crew should be familiar with the emergency plan, evacuation procedures, and assembly areas.

Fireworks, Blanks, & Ammunition:

• Treat all firearms as if they were loaded. Live ammunition should not be used or brought to the shooting location.
• Firearms include imitation weapons, rubber rifles, plastic guns, handguns, machine guns, and rifles capable of firing "blanks."
• Before any use of a firearm in a rehearsal or in front of the camera, relevant individuals must be briefed and prepared through the general safety meeting. A demonstration should be conducted with the presence of the location manager (or other authorized personnel). Procedures to be taken, contingency plans, and emergency response procedures should be clear to all participants.
• A firearm should not be handed to anyone until they have been trained on its handling, use, and safety.
•  Do not point a firearm at anyone, including yourself. Only do so when necessary and when shooting on camera.
• Do not place your finger on the firearm trigger until you are ready to shoot. Keep your finger away from the trigger and alongside the firearm barrel.
• Never engage in violent games or activities that involve curiosity in using firearms.
• Do not fire or pull the trigger of a firearm if the barrel is obstructed or jammed.
• If you pull the trigger and the barrel of the firearm is jammed, do not continue to press the trigger. You should notify the relevant staff.
• Never leave a firearm unattended. Secure the firearm safely or have it in the possession of the location manager when not in use.
• Only qualified individuals should load or handle blank ammunition.
• Do not force or persuade individuals to use a firearm if they are not comfortable handling it.
• Report any obstructions or malfunctions in firearms immediately to the location manager. Do not attempt to adjust, modify, repair, or clear a firearm on your own.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as face shields, eye protection, or hearing protection should be provided to individuals near firearm use.
• Maintain a safe distance from the firing area. This area is designated by the location manager, authorized safety representative, or coordinator.
• Authorized personnel to oversee, distribute, or control firearms are a) the location manager, b) the authorized general safety officer, c) the coordinator.
• Duties and Responsibilities of the Location Manager:
• Ensure obtaining the necessary licenses, permits, and authorizations for the use of firearms.
• Properly store, use, and transport firearms.
• Handle jammed or obstructed firearms.
• Train individuals on the proper use of firearms in their designated locations.
• Notify individuals who will be near the firearms.
•  Inspect all firearms before use. They must be cleaned, checked, and ensured that there is no remaining or "live" ammunition in the firearm. This inspection should be documented.
• Keep all firearms except during shooting or training exercises.
• Ensure that no firearms exit the filming or training area.
• Ensure the collection of spent casings or unused ammunition and dispose of them properly or store them correctly before or after shooting.    

Animals:

• Follow all general safety precautions when working near animals. A wild animal may find its way into your work area. If that happens, maintain a safe distance between you and the animal. If you are unsure how to proceed cautiously, inform the security personnel. Do not feed animals that are part of the production, wild, or interact with them, touch them, or handle them without explicit consent from their caretaker or trainer.
• If you are dealing with an animal on the set or are required to ride an animal (such as camels or horses), ensure that appropriate safety measures are taken, refrain from playing with or teasing the animals. If you have questions or concerns about involving an animal in the shoot, ask the supervisor or the responsible person.

Environmental Considerations:

Awareness about snakebites and how to deal with them:
How would you tell whether a snake is venomous?
Venomous snakes have distinct head shapes. Venomous snakes have triangular-shaped heads. They also have elliptical eyes and sharp fangs. If a snake rattles, it is venomous.
Awareness:
If you see a snake, immediately inform the members of the safety crew, and leave the snake alone. Be aware that snakes can swim in water or hide under rocks, debris, or equipment. Try to remember the color and shape of the snake's head when reporting it. Never touch the snake. Stay away from tall grass and stick to designated walking areas whenever possible. Keep your hands and feet away from dark or unseen areas.

If you are bitten by a snake:

If a snake bites you or anyone else, try to remember the color and shape of the snake. This can help with treatment.
Stay calm and still after the bite. This will slow down the spread of venom in the body.
Seek medical attention as soon as possible.
If the emergency response team is not available immediately:
a. Help the person lie down with the bite area below heart level.
b. Remove watches, rings, and tight clothing in case of swelling.
c. Wash the wound with warm water and soap.
d. Cover the bite site with a clean bandage.
e. Ensure the person does not move.

Symptoms of venomous snake bites may include: bloody discharge, fang marks at the bite spot, pain at the bite area, redness and bruising, swelling of lymph nodes, burning sensation, diarrhea, dizziness, blurred vision, weakness, excessive sweating, loss of muscle control, fever, nausea, and vomiting.

Avoid doing any of the following:

Applying ice or a tourniquet.
Cutting the wound to try to remove venom.
Having caffeine or alcohol.
Attempting to capture the snake.

• Work areas should be free of hazardous materials or chemicals. Hazardous waste should be properly disposed of. The transportation and disposal of hazardous materials should be documented.

In case of emergencies:

•  If you are working in the dark, keep a flashlight within your reach.
• If you are working in remote locations, have backup supplies such as extra food, water, a coat, etc. nearby or in a backpack.
• Know the location of emergency equipment (such as fire extinguishers, first aid kits, flashlights, etc.).
• Be aware of multiple evacuation routes and pre-designated assembly areas.
• Be aware of the location of security personnel if they are present. Know their response time to your location in case of an emergency.
• In the event of a fire, maintain your composure and alert others. Evacuate your area immediately and close windows or doors to your workspace. If the fire is small and you are confident on how to use a fire extinguisher, use it to extinguish the fire. If the fire is too large to handle, evacuate, alert others, and call emergency personnel immediately.
• Use the following method when using a fire extinguisher:
• Pull the pin or ring from the mechanism.
• Aim the nozzle of the fire extinguisher at the base of the fire.
• Squeeze the handle.
• Sweep the base of the fire with the fire extinguisher from side to side until the fire is extinguished.
• In emergency situations, protect yourself before others.

Training Sessions:

• The Royal Film Commission has the right to conduct training and informational sessions related to the general safety guidelines at any time. You may be required to attend and comply with all training sessions upon prior notice.