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Certain activities, such as writing and casting, are still recommended to be carried out practically whenever possible. At the same time, other parts of the production, including live studio audiences, are discouraged with restrictions such as social distancing measures when used.
Actors and other artists, the report notes, are “more vulnerable because they cannot use PPE [personal protective equipment] when the cameras are rolling, and they often won’t be able to participate in the physical distancing. “That will require a higher testing frequency for themselves and those with whom they are in close contact.
There are some activities, such as makeup and fight scenes, where stronger safeguards are not possible, the report acknowledges.
The plan was produced by the Industry-wide Labor Management Safety Committee Working Group, which was formed specifically for that purpose, with input from epidemiologists and sanitation experts.
Other aspects of the guidelines include the ability to respond appropriately to staff contracting the virus, educational programs, and a designated compliance officer on each production. Efforts will also be made to “assess the health / wellness of all personnel prior to entering the set.”
The technical document specifies that personal protective equipment will be provided “to all actors and equipment at no cost.”
Due to the uncertainty associated with Covid-19, U.S. networks have been working on contingency measures if production is significantly delayed. That includes purchasing programs that have already been produced for broadcast services or other countries such as the United Kingdom and Canada.
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