Regardless of how carefully a production set is managed, accidents happen and sometimes people are injured.
Responding quickly and professionally is essential, not only to protect the injured person and keep everyone else safe, but to reduce potential liability.
Having a clear action plan to put into practice when the worst happens is essential, but what should that plan look like?
- Prioritise immediate medical attention
The first step is always to ensure the injured person gets quick and appropriate medical care.
Assess the severity of the injury and call emergency services if necessary. For minor injuries, provide first aid using an on-set medical kit or qualified medic if available.
Never allow an injured cast or crew member to continue working if their condition could worsen. - Secure the area
After the incident, stop production activity in the affected area to prevent further injuries. Identify hazards like loose cables, damaged equipment, unsafe rigging or slippery surfaces and restrict access until you know it’s safe.
- Report the incident
Accurate reporting supports workplace safety compliance and insurance claims so make sure you record:
The date and time of the incident
The names of people involved
Witness statements
The scene, by taking photos
Details of the injury and the medical response - Notify your insurance provider
Contact your insurer or broker immediately to report the injury and begin the claims process. Delays can affect cover or claim approval.
Provide all supporting documentation, including incident reports, medical information and witness accounts. - Cooperate with investigations
Depending on the severity of the injury, there may be an internal review or external investigation.
Cooperate fully with safety officers, insurers or regulatory authorities because reviewing what caused an accident will help keep people safe in the future. - Review safety procedures
After the incident, carefully evaluate your on-set safety protocols and consider if extra training, supervision, equipment maintenance or risk assessments are needed.
Productions that prioritise safety are less likely to experience accidents, avoiding costly disruptions.
Why production insurance matters
On-set injuries can lead to medical expenses, legal claims, production delays and reputational damage but the right insurance protects everyone and your business.
Review your safety measures and incident checklist today to ensure your productions aren’t at risk.
