TV companies agree guidelines that should allow programme making to resume
(updated 8th June 2020)
TV companies have agreed guidelines for producers to follow to allow television programmes to start filming again in a way that minimises the risk from coronavirus. The document, published on 18th May, is availableĀ here.Ā The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport says this should enable TV production to start again in the coming weeks.
In a statement Oliver Dowden, the culture secretary, said:
“Great British television is keeping us company throughout the crisis, and Iām keen to get cameras rolling as soon as it is safe to do so. This is a significant step forward in getting our favourite shows and soaps going again.
Our creative industries are Britainās global calling card, and I want to see them get back to doing what they do best safely.”
The Guidelines say “this document is intended as a high-level framework to provide guidance and support for the effective assessment and management of Coronavirus (COVID-19) risk in TV Production. This should be read in conjunction with general guidance provided by the Government about management of Coronavirus (COVID-19) risks in workplaces”.
It goes onto say “this guidance covers the broad range and scale of all TV programme making in every genre for TV. Specific information and guidance on managing the risks associated with film and high-end TV drama productions can be found in the British Film Commission (BFG) guidance which should also be considered for productions within that genre.”
In addition, on 1st June, The British Film Commission (BFC) and UK Screen Alliance published new high-level guidance to manage COVID-19 specific risk in producing film and high-end TV drama in the UK – which you can see here.
You can read The HR Kiosk’s advice for all Employers, in managing the various staff scenarios’ during the Coronavirus pandemic here.