The Art Directors Guild, IATSE Local 800, has released its key recommendations and protocols for a safe return to work during the coronavirus pandemic.
“In the ongoing absence of an industry-wide agreement with either the AMPTP covering filmed entertainment, or the AICP for commercial production, the Art Directors Guild has released their set of key recommendations and protocols for adoption in the workplace,” the ADG said. “These recommendations are intended to address the day to day experience of ADG members and are supplemental to the Industry-Wide White Paper, and the Safe Way Forward with respect to testing and department-specific protocols related to employees represented by DGA, SAG-AFTRA, IATSE, Teamsters and the Basic Crafts.”
Read about all the protocols here.
“We are extremely encouraged by progress being made in industry-wide talks with employers,” said Nelson Coates, the guild’s president. “Considering that commercial production continues, and other forms of film & television prep and production are gearing up even remotely, publishing specific departmental guidance for our members and their employers was prudent and necessary until industry-wide agreements are in place.”
Added Chuck Parker, the guild’s executive director: “While no document will ever address every issue or situation our members encounter, we believe these recommendations will provide an additional layer of protection and safety as they specifically address the unique world of the art departments in filmed entertainment and commercial production.”
In a statement, the guild said that its protocols “are a living document which will be periodically updated based on the real-life workplace experience as members begin to return to work,” and that it “takes the health and safety of its members across the country very seriously. In this time of ongoing pandemic, and especially in light of current spikes in cases throughout the US, the ADG is focused on ensuring its members are in work environments that are crafted to provide the maximum level of protection and disease prevention possible.”
The guild’s “Principles, Key Recommendations and Recommended Departmental Protocols” note that they are based on the most recent data available, but that “given the constantly changing nature of this disease and its prevention, regularly updating these protocols based upon the most current medical information is essential. The health and safety of employees should be the Employer’s number one priority at all times, but especially during this crisis. All employees are individually and collectively responsible for following these guidelines.”
These are the principles set forth in the document:
Launch dates for broadcast, cable and streaming programs
Up-to-date lists for broadcast, cable and streaming series
Pandemic-proof vs. pandemic-contingent broadcast lineups