The COVID-19 pandemic has affected nearly every aspect of our lives, including our work. The entertainment industry, in particular, has been hit hard, with productions shutting down and events being canceled. As the industry starts to return to work, the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) has released a return to work agreement to ensure the safety and well-being of its members.
The return to work agreement covers a wide range of topics, from testing and tracing to personal protective equipment and social distancing measures. The agreement outlines the responsibilities of both employers and employees to create a safe and healthy work environment. It also includes protocols for dealing with COVID-19 cases on set or in the workplace.
One of the key elements of the agreement is testing and tracing. Productions will be required to implement a testing program for cast and crew members, as well as daily health screenings. The agreement also encourages contact tracing efforts, requiring productions to keep track of everyone who comes into contact with cast and crew members.
Personal protective equipment (PPE) is another important element of the agreement. Productions are required to provide appropriate PPE for all cast and crew members, including masks and gloves. The agreement also includes guidelines for when and where PPE should be worn.
Social distancing measures are also a crucial part of the agreement. Productions will be required to implement social distancing measures on set, including limiting the number of people in a given area and maintaining at least six feet of distance between individuals. The agreement also includes guidelines for transportation to and from the set, as well as for meals and other communal activities.
Finally, the return to work agreement includes protocols for dealing with COVID-19 cases on set or in the workplace. Productions will be required to establish a plan for isolating and identifying individuals who may have been exposed to the virus, as well as for cleaning and disinfecting the set and other workspaces.
In summary, the return to work agreement released by the IATSE provides comprehensive guidelines for the safe return to work for members of the entertainment industry. It covers a wide range of topics, including testing and tracing, personal protective equipment, social distancing measures, and protocols for dealing with COVID-19 cases. By following these guidelines, productions can help ensure the safety and well-being of their cast and crew members while continuing to create outstanding entertainment.