Location Filming

in London
Code of Practice
Contents Page This Code of Practice represents a The Code has been agreed
major step forward for the London after consultation with leading
Foreword 3 Filming Partnership. For the first professionals involved in production
Introduction 4 time, everyone involved in filming across the entire span of the moving
Definitions 6 in the capital – the industry, those image industry, with representatives
General Location Filming Procedures 7 who represent the citizens of London of the London boroughs and with
Location Filming – Application Process Flowchart 8 and public and private organisations private and public organisations
– has come together to agree a across the city.
A—Z of Key Issues: comprehensive and practical tool The Code is reviewed regularly
1.
Animals 10 which will govern the practice of to reflect the day-to-day practice and
2.
Aerial Filming 10 filming in London. experience of filming on the ground.
3.
Building Exteriors 11 Although the Code itself is I believe that we should all
4.
Cabling 11 voluntary, it provides details of the welcome this Code and collectively put
5.
Camera Track 11 statutory obligations to which all our shoulders to the wheel to ensure
6.
Catering 11 those engaged in filming must adhere. that it delivers its objectives – making
7.
Charges 11 Everyone who has signed up to the filming in London a smooth, efficient
8.
Child Performers 12 London Filming Partnership has and positive experience for all.
9.
Coning for Parking 12 agreed that they will follow the Code.
10.
Council Property 12 The Code embodies the spirit Lord Puttnam, CBE
11
. Cranes/Jibs/Cherry Pickers 12 of the Partnership, which is to make Chair, London Filming Partnership
12 .
Employment 13 London a more film-friendly city. It
13 .
Filming from Vehicles 13 offers assistance to both experienced
Scenes Involving a Weapon Flowchart 14 professionals and new talent alike by
14 .
Firearms and Weapons 16 providing a clear, simple checklist of
15 .
Health and Safety 16 practical issues which may arise in
16 .
Highways/Traffic Management 16 relation to filming in London. It also
17 .
Historic and Cultural Locations 17 helps to ensure that the process of
18 .
Indemnity and Insurance 17 filming does not create difficulties for
19 .
Lighting 17 local residents or businesses.
20
. Litter Removal 17
21
. Night Filming 17
22 .
Noise 17
23
. Parking 17
24
. Police/Emergency Services 18
25
. Problem Solving 18
26 .
Publicity 18
27
. Public Liability Insurance 18
28
. Public Transport 18
29
. Residents and Businesses 19
30
. Risk Assessment 19
31
. Rivers & Waterways 19
Foreword
32
. Road Markings 19
33
. Scaffolding/Lighting Towers 19
34 .
Security 20
35 .
Signage 20
36
. Special Effects/Pyrotechnics 20
37
. Street Signs/Street Furniture/Street Lighting 21
38.
Stunts 21
Annexe – Statutory Obligations 22
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 This Code of Practice applies By joining the Partnership,
to all forms of production signatories agree to support their
(including feature films, television, production team to help them to
commercials, drama documentaries, work within the guidelines, to
music videos, idents, stills shoots, comply with all statutory regulations
student and short film crews) shot and to use methods that conform
on location in public places in to best practice.
London which are likely to, or have Filming procedures which
the potential to, cause disruption involve statutory obligations are
to normal activity. indicated with a †.
In practice small on-street Details of the main relevant
location shoots (three people or statutory obligations are set out
less) may not need to adhere to all separately in the Annexe.
aspects of the Code at all times and Productions are urged to read
it is not intended for news crews. the Code and relevant obligations
closely to ensure that they operate
The aims of the Code are within the law. The Code shall be
to ensure that: reviewed and updated regularly by
Film London. This current draft was
• Tefficiently
he industry can film effectively,
and flexibly in London
updated and approved in May 2012.
Please Note: Although this
• Aresponsibly,
ll involved in location filming act
professionally and
Code is comprehensive, it cannot
cover every eventuality and each
considerately at all times production should consult their legal
• Tonhepeople
practical impact of filming
and businesses within
counsel or other advisors in relation
to individual concerns.
London is minimised.
Any queries regarding this Code
Through a combination of all the should be addressed to:
above, the long-term sustainability locations@filmlondon.org.uk
of filming in London is secured. This
Code complements the production
guidelines of the UK broadcasters
which will in any event prevail.
This Code details the principles
of best practice to which the
signatories agree to adhere. It has
been developed by film industry
professionals in consultation

Introduction with Borough Film Services and

representatives of key organisations
to help to promote filming in London.

There is an additional document

entitled Green Screen London which
complements this Code of Practice.
This document can be found at
www.filmlondon.org.uk/greenscreen

4/5
Definitions ‘Highways Authority’ defines the
body responsible for managing
and maintaining the highway. This
General
includes Local Authorities’ Highways
Departments and Transport for
Location
London, the traffic and highway
authority for the main road “Red Filming
Route” network (Transport for London
Road Network) in London. Procedures
‘Production’ refers to the Producer ‘Traffic Authority’ defines the body
or Production Company, Production responsible for assessing the All producers undertake to inform
Manager, Location Manager or impact of any proposed activity Film London of any complex shoots
any other authorised officer or on traffic flow and the local well in advance of the start of
supervising worker of the audio- community. This includes Local shooting to ensure effective liaison
visual project being made. Authorities’ Highways Departments with all parties affected by the
and Transport for London. shoot. Film London undertakes to
‘Local Authority’ defines the facilitate such liaison in a timely and
administrative body of a local ‘Security Industry Authority’ (SIA) efficient manner.
council responsible for an area or defines the body responsible for Productions undertake that
district of London. There are 33 regulating the private security they shall inform the relevant Film
Local Authorities in London. industry. They are responsible for the Contact of a shoot that is taking
compulsory licensing of individuals place in a private location where
‘Borough Film Service’ is the service working in specific sectors of the such shooting may have an impact
provided for film-makers by each private security industry. on the relevant Local Authority
London Local Authority. or Organisation.
‘MPS Film Unit’ (MPSFU) All individuals working on
‘Film Contact’ is the service The Metropolitan Police Service location must take responsibility for
provided for film-makers by either Film Unit is the single point of their own health and safety and that
a Local Authority or an Organisation contact for liaising with police for of their colleagues. The producer
or Agency. filming in London. This does not has the overall responsibility for
include City of London. ensuring that adequate Health and
‘Transport for London’ (TfL) is the Safety Policy and Management
integrated body responsible for the procedures are in place.
Capital’s transport system.

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 Public Property
For filming on public property,
Location Filming you must be covered by a ‘public
liability insurance’ policy

– The Application Process * If you need help finding

your locations, please contact
Film London on:
020 7613 7683
locations@filmlondon.org.uk
www.filmlondon.org.uk

** See FL lists for contact details

Do you know Yes No *** Please note that lead times
vary from borough to borough.
which borough Call Film London A list of lead times is available
for advice at www.filmlondon.org.uk/
your film 020 7613 7683 borough_charges

location is in?* FL = Film London

BFS = Borough Film Service
TfL = Transport for London
Is your location privately-
owned, Council-owned or
public highway?

Private Property Council-Owned Property Public Highway

Approach owner directly. Contact relevant Borough Film Contact relevant Highways Authority,
**See FL Organisations and Service (BFS). either via Borough Film Service
Agencies list for help ***See FL BFS list for details (BFS) or TfL.
***See FL lists for details

Will you require

on-street parking?

No Yes Send formal application to BFS Recce

Inform BFS ***Arrange Inc. dates, crew size, parking Attend ‘recce’ (site meeting) if
of filming. via BFS. requirements, stunts (with risk necessary, with BFS (police officers and
assessment). Include public liability Local Authority officials may also need
insurance cover sheet. to be present).

Inform Police
Inform Borough Police Contact,
and where necessary the
Metropolitan Police Service
Film Unit of all filming details.
**See FL Police List

Distribute Resident’s Letter Shoot is approved During filming

To any residents/businesses affected BFS may issue a filming licence for Contact BFS in advance if any formerly
by filming – with sufficient notice, the location and/or a permit/written agreed details change, regarding
detailing dates, times, measures taken confirmation of no objection for location, times, crew size, vehicle
to minimise any disturbances that may street filming. presence, props and nature of filming.
arise, production contact details and Refer to the Location Filming in London
BFS details – also send a copy to BFS. Code of Practice for guidelines of
location filming conduct
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A—Z of 2. Aerial Filming
In addition to obtaining appropriate
Bb 5. Camera Track (Dollies)
All matters relating to camera tracking
Key Issues permissions from the relevant
Borough Film Service, Productions
3. Building Exteriors shall be discussed and agreed with
the Film Contact in advance of filming.
using manned or unmanned aircraft Filming or photographing the exterior Any obstructions or alternative
for filming purposes shall ensure of a building does not infringe its footways planned must be cleared by
that they are familiar with aircraft copyright. You do not need permission the Film Contact. Tracking boards may
legislation and procedures that to film a building’s exterior and be required in certain circumstances.
relate to aerial filming in London. Due building owners are not entitled to The Production shall agree to ensure
to the nature of the local airspace charge a fee. that any action involving tracking is
and the density of habitation within However, there are other risk assessed.
the capital there are some important intellectual property rights to
restrictions on the operation of consider when filming building 6. Catering †
aircraft in and around London. exteriors such as registered
For more information contact the trademarks ie company name or logo. Catering arrangements and the
General Aviation Department at the For further information contact positioning of catering vehicles shall
Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on Film London on 020 7613 7683 or be agreed in advance with the
Aa 01293 573525 or ga@caa.co.uk. locations@filmlondon.org.uk Production and Film Contact.
Guidance on safety requirements The Production shall ensure that
relating to flying small (<20 kg) no dirty water or food waste be
1. Animals †
unmanned aircraft (UAVs) can be Cc deposited in rainwater gullies and
The Production shall source found at www.caa.co.uk/CAP722. that caterers use a dirty water bowser
animals that are trained to meet If commercial activity (aerial work) 4. Cabling † where possible. Wherever possible
the Production requirements and is envisaged through using these the Production shall make use of
this shall be from a known industry aircraft, then an application should The Production shall agree in advance environmentally friendly materials.
supplier/owner. be made to the CAA before filming with the Film Contact regarding Wherever possible but subject
When filming with animals, the or photography commences. the appropriate use of cables, the always to the Production’s own rules
Production shall agree to follow Applications can be made at safe laying of agreed cabling and and/or those of its commissioner, which
either the RSPCA Guidelines for www.caa.co.uk/SRG1320 the suitability of attaching cables may specify approved caterers, catering
the Use of Animals in the Audio- The Production should liaise to street furniture, trees, historic is to be sourced from local businesses.
Visual Industry or the PAWSI Code, with the Borough Film Service with properties and any other relevant Also see Litter Removal and HSE
Guidelines and Minimum Standards regards to informing Borough Police items. This process includes all Catering Information Sheets, available
for the Welfare of Animals in the contacts once permission has been matting, ramping and flying of cables from www.hse.gov.uk/catering.
Audio Visual Industries. granted by the BFS and the CAA. to avoid hazards.
The RSPCA Guidelines can be Please see Air Navigation Please also see HSE document 7. Charges
obtained by calling the Performing Order Article 166 & 167. Visit Preventing Slips and Trips at work
Animals Hotline (0300 123 8787) www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop for links. and HSE publication Slips and Trips: All charges that Borough Film Services
or you can visit the website (www. Guidance for Employers on Identifying are entitled to levy are detailed on
rspca.org.uk/performinganimals) Hazards and Controlling Risks the Film London website at www.
for full information. HSG155 HSE Books. Visit filmlondon.org.uk/borough_charges
Alternatively, for more information www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop for links. Many Local Authorities do not
on PAWSI and for the PAWSI Code charge for filming in the street but
visit the website: www.pawsi.org some may charge an administration
Please also see HSE fee (either a flat fee or a fee for their
Entertainment Sheet 4 and HSE time spent assisting filming or both),
Managing Health & Safety in Zoos. a fee for the use of council property
Visit www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop and a fee for making parking
for link. spaces available.
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 The Production should be aware
8. Child Performers † 11. Cranes/Jibs/Cherry Pickers †
Ee that there are two Industry Codes of
Child Performers under school Camera cranes/jib arms Practice for Performers and Workers
leaving age usually require a Child In advance of the shoot, the Production 12. Employment † that must be observed when it is
Performance Licence. The Production shall discuss and agree with the considering issuing Certificates.
must apply for a Performance Licence Film Contact, and any other relevant Production must implement all These Codes can be viewed at
for the child well in advance. 21 days authorities, the specific camera current UK legislation that informs www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop.
is required to issue a licence. crane or jib arm to be used, and the and guides the employment of all A guide to help Productions
Child Performance Licences are positioning of such equipment. workers. The Production must also understand the issues surrounding
issued by the Education Welfare observe their legal responsibilities and work placements can be found
Service for the Local Authority in Cherry pickers obligations with regard to the National on the Skillset website.
which the child resides, unless the In advance of the shoot, the Minimum Wage and the Working The Production Guild will provide
child is at Boarding School. Production shall discuss and agree Time Regulations. Further detailed information on areas such
Where the child is not from the with the Film Contact, and any other information on these can be found by as managed migration, available
United Kingdom, the child remains relevant authorities, the specific cherry following this link www.direct.gov.uk/ skilled senior production and
subject to the UK requirements picker to be used, and the positioning en/employment. For more information accounting personnel by contacting
when they arrive here. However, of such equipment. It may be necessary on rights at work, rates of pay etc. them on 01753 651767 or
care should also be taken to for the relevant authority to carry out contact BECTU on 020 7346 0900 or www.productionguild.com.
identify and address any additional a highway inspection both before and go to www.bectu.org.uk.
requirements that arise from the after a cherry picker is used. Producers must obtain sufficient
child’s usual country of residence or Camera cranes, jib arms and proof of ‘Right to Work’ for all those Ff
when shooting outside of the UK. cherry pickers must be tested and individuals directly engaged by the
The hours that a child is permitted have proof of documentation and shall Production prior to commencement 13. Filming From Vehicles †
to work will depend upon their age. be operated by certified qualified of their engagement, and keep copies
The Production must check the technicians. Productions shall agree of the documents in order to comply For the avoidance of doubt this
permitted working hours with the to consult codes and guidance from with UK Immigration legislation. Such section refers to, but is not limited
relevant Education Welfare Service. recognised bodies such as ASPEC’s ‘proof’ includes, but is not limited to, to filming using low loaders, tracking
More information on child licensing Guidance in the Provision and Safe a valid passport, national identity vehicles and a-frames.
is available from the NNCEE website: Operation of Cranes, and shall carry card, residence permit and, where The Production shall agree to
www.NNCEE.org.uk and a list of out a risk assessment where using required, a certificate of sponsorship consult with the MPS Film Unit
contact details for all London Child such equipment. (which as of December 2008 replaces and relevant Highways and Traffic
Employment Departments can be Camera cranes and cherry pickers, the work permit). Authority (via the BFS where it is
found on the Film London website and in some cases, jib arms are likely If the Production is utilising any not a Highways Agency or TfL road)
www.filmlondon.org.uk/legal to require a licence from the relevant foreign nationals (excluding those when filming from a moving vehicle
Local Authority. Rigging and de-rigging from a country in the European on a public road. All Road Traffic
9. Coning For Parking shall be undertaken with respect for Economic Area (EEA), but not Romania Legislation must be complied
local residents and in accordance with and Bulgaria, and Swiss nationals) with subject to the grant of any
The Production acknowledges that the statutory obligations governing – in front or behind the camera – it concessions by the Highways and/or
cones have no legal force to secure noise levels. must demonstrate that these people Traffic Authority and the Police.
parking and their use shall be agreed Please also see HSE Simple Guide are entitled to enter, remain and For further information see
in advance with the Film Contact. to the Lifting Operations and Lifting work in the UK. Under the UK Borders HSE Information Sheet number 22:
Equipment Regulations 1998, Agency’s Points-Based System of Safe filming and recording
10. Council Property Approved Code of Practice and Managed Migration, the Production involving vehicles. Visit
Guidance L113 HSE Books 1998 and or its parent company will be required www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop for link.
Whenever filming on Council-owned HSE Entertainment Information to meet the criteria to register as a
property e.g. in parks, schools, Sheet No. 6: Working at Heights in Sponsor and issue Certificates that
housing estates, town halls etc, the the Broadcasting and will allow such individuals to work in
Production shall negotiate a license Entertainment Industries. Visit the UK. In addition, visas to enter the
with the Borough Film Service. www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop for links. UK may be required.
12/13
 Guidance for scenes involving
a weapon of any kind
(Including all imitation weapons)

You must consult and comply with the HSE information sheet 20
available at www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop. A full and comprehensive
risk assessment must be completed and supplied.

By raising awareness of your activity to BFS/Police, the likelihood of an

armed police deployment should be greatly reduced.

Firearms Imitation*/Replica*/ Other Weapons

(Including live and blank Deactivated Firearms* (e.g. Swords, knives, flame gun etc)
firing weapons) (e.g. Wooden, painted, models &
certified permanently disabled)

Where it is a live firing weapon you You should agree local control
will require a license holder for measures as per police and Borough
that weapon to be present, or a Film Service guidance, to include
Registered Firearms Dealer (RFD) the transporting of weapons.
or a servant of the RFD.

Where it is a blank firing weapon it is

advisable to have the above present.

Is your weapon being used in

a public or private location?

Public Private
(Includes locations which are open (Includes locations which are
space and building interiors which film studios and buildings
are viewable/audible from a which fully enclose the filming
3rd party/public location) i.e. viewable/audible from a
public/3rd party location)

You should ensure that the MPS Film You should inform the owner of
Unit has been informed and that a the property, the BFS and the MPS
Filmweapon CAD has been created. Film Unit of your intention to film,
You need to nominate a point of completing the application process * Imitation
contact (for example the RFD or where requested. Anything which has the
Location Manager) and ensure the appearance of being a firearm
(see S.57(4) Firearms Act 1668)
Filmweapon CAD number is passed to
them in the day of filming. Inform the * Replica (Realistic
local BFS and complete an application Imitation firearm) Where it is
indistinguishable, for all practical
(to include risk assessments, details purposes, from a real firearm
of control measures and the and is neither deactivated or an
Filmweapon CAD number). antique (see S.38 Violent Crime
Reduction Act 2006)

* Deactivated
Where the mechanisms to cause
Please note: the BFS may require harm have been removed or
a police presence. The production permanently disabled and it has
been certified as deactivated by
will be required to cover the cost of a proof house (see S.8 Firearms
this assistance. (Amendment) Act 1988)
14/15
14. Firearms & Weapons † 15.1 High Visibility Clothing 17. Historic & Cultural provided according to local contract
& Personal Protection Equipment † rates. Waste created on location
Filmweapon cad The Production must ensure that the
Locations should be recycled wherever possible.
A message created by the police appropriate level of safety clothing is The Production shall adhere to any
to notify local officers and armed worn for the safety of the crew when conservation regulations laid down
response teams that firearms or filming on the public highway and in by the respective Film Contact. Nn
weapons or being used whilst filming. the public domain.
No weapons or firearms of any Please also see HSE Free
kind, including prop or replica Information Line 08701 545500, Ii 21. Night Filming †
firearms, shall be used without HSE Publications 01787 881165, The Production shall consider and
agreement in advance between the HSE Website: www.open.gov.uk/hse/ 18. Indemnity & Insurance † consult with the Film Contact, local
Production and the Police and/or entertainment and HSE Information residents and businesses in the
appropriate emergency service and Booklet 360 Health and Safety The Production shall obtain and planning process.
the Film Contact. A Filmweapon CAD in Audio Visual Production – produce to the Borough Film Service,
number must also be obtained from Your Legal Duties. a copy of the relevant insurance 22. Noise †
the police. This includes when filming needed before shooting commences.
exteriors and/or interiors on public 16. Highways/Traffic The need for insurance is governed Use of audio playback and
and private property. by statutory obligation. megaphones shall only be permitted
Where it is a live firing weapon
Management † Also see, Public Liability Insurance following agreement between the
the Production must have a licence The Production shall liaise with Production and the Film Contact.
holder for that weapon present, or a the relevant Film Contact when The parking position of generators
Registered Firearms Dealer (RFD) or a wanting to use public highways and Ll shall be agreed in advance between
servant of the RFD. Where it is a blank footpaths for filming or for placing the Film Contact and the Production
firing weapon, it is recommended down equipment. 19. Lighting † and will depend on local sensitivities.
to have the above present. Please The London Local Authorities and
refer to the firearms flowchart on Transport for London Act 2008 allows The Production shall agree the
page 14, and sections 34 and 36 for road closures for filming to be carried positioning and safety of lighting in Pp
information on stunts, special effects out by Order or by Notice by the advance with the Film Contact and/or
and pyrotechnics. relevant Traffic Authority/ies. There designated authority. An appropriate 23. Parking †
Please also see HSE Entertainment are conditions and lead in times to be degree of flexibility may be agreed
Information Sheet No. 20. Visit considered for closures. Productions providing it is within the parameters The Production shall submit detailed
www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop for link. shall agree to refer to the Film London of Health and Safety legislation. parking plans to be discussed and
website (www.filmlondon.org.uk/ Please also see HSE Guidance agreed with the Film Contact; in
traffic) for more information and note GS50 Electrical Safety for Places particular for on-street parking for
Hh contact the Borough Film Service well of Entertainment and HSE Electrical technical vehicles, equipment and
in advance of the desired shoot date. Safety for Entertainers. Visit bays to be reserved for continuity.
15. Health and Safety † There is a low emission zone in www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop for links. The Production shall make every
operation in London. Please see effort to find off street parking for all
The Production is bound by law to www.tfl.gov.uk/lez for 20. Litter Removal † facilities vehicles.
take reasonable care and measures further information. The Production shall not obscure
to ensure that a healthy and safe Vehicles in central London must The Production shall ensure that mandatory or warning traffic signs
working environment is created and pay the congestion charge. Please see all litter is removed immediately at when parking vehicles on highways
maintained for all. All relevant Health www.tfl.gov.uk/cc for information on the end of the filming and that the that are not closed.
and Safety legislation must be abided how to pay, and more details on location and environs are returned Parking charges are detailed on
by. Failure to follow appropriate the congestion charge zone. to the same condition in which they each Borough Film Service’s rate
Health & Safety procedures may Also see, Police/Emergency Services were found. The Production may ask card, www.filmlondon.org.uk/
invalidate any insurance. the relevant Borough Film Service borough_charges.
to remove litter; this service is to be

16/17
 any costs of providing this service.
24. Police/Emergency
Services † Simple and straightforward shoots Rr 32. Road Markings
shall be dealt with by individual The temporary painting-out or
The Production shall inform the Police Borough Operational Command Units 29. Residents & Businesses disguising of road markings, lines
and/or appropriate emergency service (BOCU’s). See www.filmlondon.org.uk/ or other road signs is subject to
of all proposed filming on the street police for the BOCU contact list. The Production shall consult with agreement in advance with the Film
and/or in a public space in liaison with See www.met.police.uk/filmunit for local residents and businesses that Contact and, if necessary, Highways
the Film Contact. up to date information on R remit, fees may be affected by their filming prior Authority. The Production shall also
The staging of crimes and and contact details. to and during the shoot. notify local Police in advance of any
accidents, plus use of firearms The Production shall consider such undertaking.
(including prop/imitation/deactivated/ 25. Problem Solving diversity and equality when The Production agrees to fully
replica firearms) and special effects consulting with residents and reinstate any alterations to road
shall be agreed, in advance of In the event of a dispute arising businesses. The Borough Film markings to the satisfaction of the
the shoot, with the Police and/or between the Production and other Service should be approached Traffic or Highways Authority and
appropriate emergency service and parties on location, please contact before residents and businesses when obliged to use official
the Film Contact. Film London on 020 7613 7683 or are contacted as they should be contractors shall pay cost price.
The Production shall inform the email locations@filmlondon.org.uk. able to provide the Production with
police and/or appropriate emergency relevant local information to aid a fair
service when filming involves 26. Publicity consultation process. Ss
celebrities who may cause security
or crowd control issues. The Production (or in some cases, 30. Risk Assessment † 33. Scaffolding/
the Distributor or Broadcaster) Lighting Towers †
24.1 The Metropolitan Police Service shall provide the location/Borough Risk Assessments are required
Film Unit (MPSFU) supports and Film Service with publicity material on by the self-employed and by any All requests to erect scaffolding/
encourages filming in London. release of the project wherever possible. company with employees to be lighting towers in a public area,
They will endeavour to provide all able to satisfy their insurance highway or footway shall be agreed in
reasonable assistance to film-makers. 27. Public Liability Insurance provisions and statutory obligations advance with the Film Contact and/
There may be a legislative impact to employees and those affected by or designated authority. A temporary
of scenes involving the following: The Production shall provide a copy of their actions. structure licence may be required.
Public Liability Insurance to the Additional location specific Risk Please also see HSE Work at
• Fake Police officers or vehicles Borough Film Service or filming Assessments are also required Height Regulations 2005: A Brief
• Re-creating crimes location, for all location filming and depending on the type and nature Guide and HSE Entertainment
• Presence of weapons both prop/ agree to indemnify the location owner of filming. Guidance on writing risk Information Sheet No. 6: Working
imitation and, in the case of or representative against any claims assessments is available at at Heights in the Broadcasting and
firearms, deactivated/replica arising as a direct result of the www.hse.gov.uk/entertainment. Entertainment Industries. Visit
firearms activities of the Production. Please also see HSE A Guide to www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop for links.
• Explosions or perceived explosives Also see, Indemnity & Insurance Risk Assessment Requirements and
• Special effects HSE 5 Steps to Risk Assessment:
• Scenes involving nudity 28. Public Transport † www.hse.gov.uk/risk/fivesteps.htm
• Filming on the move e.g. Low loaders,
‘A’ frames and tracking The Production must seek permission 31. Rivers & Waterways
from the relevant Film Contact before
All enquiries regarding the above will filming on public transport. Please When planning to film on any
be managed by the MPSFU, unless Note: Drinking alcohol or being waterway, the Production must
you are filming in the City of London. perceived to be drinking alcohol is now liaise with the Film Contact from the
These enquiries will be dealt with by banned on the Tube, London Buses, relevant governing body as early as
the City Police. A Police presence can Docklands Light Railway, tram services possible. Specific health and safety
be requested to assist with the above and at Transport for London stations measures will apply.
scenes. The Production shall cover throughout the city.
18/19
34. Security † this instance it is advisable to check Productions shall consider A full method statement and risk
insurance policies. existing industry codes and guidance assessment may be required by the
The Production must use SIA (Security documents from recognised bodies Film Contact.
Industry Authority) licensed Security 35. Signage † such as HSE, BECTU Special FX The Production shall inform local
for all licensable activity at all times branch, etc. residents and businesses of such
and follow guidelines that conform to Unless approved by the relevant Traffic Please also see HSE document: filming, in consultation with the
BS7690. SIA Security badges will have or Highways Authority, unit direction Preventing Slips and Trips at work Film Contact.
individual numbers on which can be signage on the highway and HSE publication: Slips and All stunts shall be under the direct
checked on the SIA website is illegal. Trips: Guidance for Employers on supervision of a recognised JISC
www.the-sia.org.uk. The Production shall consult the Identifying Hazards and Controlling (Joint Industry Stunt Committee)
Licensed activity includes but is not Film Contact before attaching all other Risks HSG155 HSE Books, HSE Co-ordinator or a person of
limited to manned guarding (guarding non-public highways signage. Entertainment Information Sheet similar experience.
premises against unauthorized No. 3 [Smoke and Vapour Effects], Please also see HSE document
access; guarding property against 36. Special Effects/ HSE Entertainment Information Preventing Slips and Trips at
destruction or damage and theft), Sheet No. 16 [Explosives work, HSE publication: Slips and
close protection (guarding an
Pyrotechnics and Pyrotechnics], and HSE Trips: Guidance for Employers on
individual) and guarding cash or For the avoidance of doubt this Entertainment Information Sheet Identifying Hazards and Controlling
valuables in transit. A Door Supervisor section refers to, but is not limited No. 22 [Filming Involving Vehicles]. Risks HSG155 HSE Books, HSE
license is required if manned guarding to, all sequences including physical, Visit www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop Entertainment Information Sheet No.
activities are undertaken in relation to atmospheric and pyrotechnic effects. for links. 17 [Stunts & Fight Scenes], and HSE
licensed premises that are open to the In accordance with statutory Health Entertainment Information Sheet No.
public (i.e. a public house, restaurant and Safety obligations, the Production 37. Street Signs/Street 22 [Filming Involving Vehicles].
or bar). must provide a risk assessment and
method statement.
Furniture/Street Lighting †
A useful check list when choosing The Production shall notify the The removal of street furniture,
a Security company relevant Film Contact or relevant including street signs, and the
1. Are they SIA licenced? third party whenever physical, or adjustment of street lighting shall
2. Do they have public and employers pyrotechnic effects are to be used, be subject to agreement in advance
liability insurance of up to £10m? and shall consult the Police and between the Film Contact and,
3. What list of services do they Emergency Services in advance. if necessary, the Traffic or
provide ie: Location Security, Studio The Production shall inform local Highways Authority.
Security, Location Support, Lock residents and businesses of such All agreed work shall normally be
offs, Crowd Control, Event Security, filming, in consultation with the carried out by the Traffic or Highways
Street Reservations, Dog Patrols Film Contact. Authority and charged to the
and Close Protection, can they All special effects shall be under Production at cost. The Production
provide a risk assessment? the direct supervision of a JIC graded shall agree to cover these costs and
TV Supervisor or Features Supervisor, those of re-instatement.
The Production must respect Security or person of similar experience and
issues local to the borough or location all pyrotechnics shall be under the 38. Stunts †
in which the filming is taking place direct supervision of a JIC graded
and shall take advice of local Police, Pyrotechnics Supervisor or person of In accordance with statutory
the Security provider and the Film similar experience. Health and Safety obligations, the
Contact when deciding upon the Atmospheric effects (e.g. wet Production must provide a risk
number of Security personnel downs, snow, mist and rain) may only assessment.
required and their positioning. be carried out with the approval of the The Production shall notify the
The Production may be asked Film Contact after a proper evaluation relevant Film Contact or relevant
to work alongside on-site Security of the forecast weather conditions and third party whenever stunts are to
Officers. Such on site Security are not with the proper signage and a clear up be used, and shall consult the Police
employees of the Production, so in and safe disposal schedule. and Emergency Services in advance.
20/21
Annexe – 11. Cranes/Jibs/Cherry Pickers
Lifting Equipment and Lifting
Regulations 1998
19. Lighting
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989
BS 7909 Code of Practice for Temporary
36. Special Effects/Pyrotechnics
Stunts:
Management Regulations1999

Statutory The Provision and Use of Work Equipment

Regulations 1998
The Supply of Machinery [Safety]
Electrical Systems for Entertainment
Related Purposes
Explosives Act 1875
Road Traffic Acts 1988, 1991

Obligations Regulations 1992

The Supply of Machinery [Safety]
(Amendment) Regulations 1994
20. Litter Removal
Environmental Protection Act 1990

21. Night Filming

Sfx:
Provision and Use of Work Equipment 1998
Fire precautions [Workplace]
Regulations 1999
12. Employment Management of Health and Safety at Work Dangerous Substances and Explosive
Immigration Act 1971 (as amended by Regulations 1999 Atmospheres Regulations 2002
the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 and Environmental Act 1990 Storage of dangerous substances 2003
the Nationality, Immigration and Asylum Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
Act 2002) 22. Noise Regulations 2002
Immigration, Asylum and Nationality Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
Act 2006 Environmental Act 1990 (Amendment) Regulations 2003
National Minimum Wage Act 1998 Control of Substances Hazardous to Health
23. Parking (Amendment) Regulations 2004
13. Filming From Vehicles Management of Health and Safety at Work Control of Explosives Regulations 1991
Road Traffic Act 1988 Regulations 1999 The Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate
Road Vehicles [Construction and Use] Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 Homicide Act 2007
Regulations 1986 Highways Act 1980
Highways (Amendment) Act 1986 37. Street Signs/Street Furniture/
1. Animals 14. Firearms And Weapons Traffic Management Act 2004 Street Lighting
Management of Health and Safety Firearms Act 1968 Traffic Signs Regulations and General
Regulations 1999 Criminal Justice Act 1988 24. Police/Emergency Services Directions 2002
Management of Health & Safety at Work Public Order Act 1986 Metropolitan Police Service Film Unit – Highways Act 1980
(Amendment) Regulations 2006 Violent Crime Reduction Act 2006 www.met.police.uk/filmunit
(Amends 1999 Regulations) For all London Borough Police Contacts see 38. Stunts
Animal Welfare Act 2006 (Repeals parts of 15. Health & Safety www.filmlondon.org.uk/lists_forms_offers Please see Section 34.
1911 Act, 1954 Act and 1988 Act) Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
The Protection of Animals Act 1911 to 1988 Management of Health and Safety at Work 28. Public Transport
The Performing Animals Regulations 1999 Transport for London Conditions of
(Regulation) Act 1925 Management of Health and Safety at Work Carriage 2008
The Pet Animals Act 1951 (Amendment) Regulations 2006
Pet Animals Act 1951 (Amendment) Act 1983 Fire Precautions [Workplace] 30. Risk Assessment
The Dangerous Wild Animals Act 1976 Regulations 1999 Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
The Wildlife & Countryside Act 1981 The Corporate Manslaughter and Corporate The Management of Health and Safety at
The Wildlife & Countryside Homicide Act 2007 Work Regulations 1999
(Amendment) Act 1985 Visit www.filmlondon.org.uk/cop
The Wildlife & Countryside 33. Scaffolding/Lighting Towers
(Amendment) Act 1991 15.1 High Visibility Clothing Management of Health and Safety at Work
Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992
4. Cabling Regulations 1992 The Workplace [Health, Safety and Welfare]
Health and Safety at Work Act Personal Protective Equipment Regulations 1992
Management Regulations 1999 Regulations 2002 Construction [Design and Management]
Electricity at Work Regulations 1989 Regulations 1994
16. Highways/Traffic Management
6. Catering Management Regulations 1999 34. Security
Management of Health and Safety Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 The Private Security Industry Act 2001
Regulations 1999 Highways Act 1980
Highways (Amendment) Act 1986 35. Signage
8. Child Performers Road Traffic Act 1988 Highways act 1980 Section 132(1)
Children and Young Persons Act 1963 Traffic Management Act 2004 Criminal Justice Act 1982 (ss 35, 37, 38, 46)
Children and Young Persons Act 1969 Roads Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989
Children [Performances] Regulations 1968 Roads Vehicles [Construction & Use]
Protection of Children Act 1978 Regulations 1986
Children [Performances] Regulations 2000
Children [Protection at Work] 18. Indemnity And Insurance
Regulations 1998 Employers’ Liability Act 1969
Children [Protection at work] Employers’ Liability Regulations 1988
Regulations 2000 Employers’ Liability [Compulsory Insurance]
Children Act 2004 (Amendment) Regulations 2004
22/23
Film London
Suite 6.10 The Tea Building
56 Shoreditch High Street
London E1 6JJ

Tel: 020 7613 7676

Fax: 020 7613 7677
info@filmlondon.org.uk
www.filmlondon.org.uk

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