Union information and broadcasting minister Prakash Javadekar, on Sunday, announced a standard operating procedure (SOP) for resumption of film and television production with necessary health protocols in place amid the coronavirus pandemic.
“The general principles behind the SOP will help create a safe working environment for cast and crew in the industry,” the minister tweeted.
Here's all you need to know about the guidelines issued in the SOP by the I&B Ministry.
Are face masks mandatory for everyone on sets?
Face masks are mandatory for all personnel on sets except actors facing the camera.
How will social distancing be maintained during film and TV production?
The guidelines include ensuring physical distance of 6 feet at all times on the sets. Crowd management in parking lots and outside the premises will also be maintained.
For studios with multiple sets, staggered call and pack-up timings will be arranged. The seating arrangement, too shall be maintained according to social distancing and no visitors or audience will be allowed on sets.
How will the safety and health of the cast and crew be ensured on sets?
The guidelines by the I&B Ministry list that thermal screening of all cast ad crew will happen at entry points and only those found asymptomatic will be allowed entry. The workplace and common facilities will be snitized frequently.
Only minimum cast and crew will be present on sets and those suspected of any illness will be temporarily isolated.
What about make-up and hair stylists and their contact with the actors?
The SOP mentions that sharing of costumes. wigs and makeup items must be kept at minimum. All make-up artists and hair stylists will have to use PPE kits to ensure safety.
All those handling shared equipment will have to wear gloves and all props will be sanitized before and after use.
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