Alpine Safety

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When working in alpine locations, especially in high altitude or extreme conditions, productions need to ensure the environment is understood and measures are put in place to ensure safety.

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It is important to have competent guides and specialist advice.

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ScreenSafe suggests all productions are familiar with the Mountain Safety Association and AdventureSmart.

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Ensuring Safety

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Productions should ensure:

• specialist advice is sought for all activities;
• competent guides are used, especially in extreme conditions;
• seek local knowledge;
• crew and cast have and use personal protective equipment, including solid shoes, rain jacket, warm clothing (avoid cotton and denim), hat and gloves;
• all equipment is maintained, tested and present;
• crew and cast understand the risk of hypothermia, how to identify it and what to do;
• crew and cast have enough food (to last an extra night in case of an emergency) and water (at least 2L per person);
• two-way communication is available;
• alternative exit routes are planned in case conditions change;
• emergency shelters are available;
• an appropriate first aid kit is available;
• weather forecasts are checked – MetService mountain weather forecast;
• surroundings are checked for recent avalanche activity, changes in terrain and snowpack;
• fatigue is taken into consideration and managed;
• crew and cast are provided appropriate breaks to rest and take on food / water;
• an emergency plan is in place;
• crew and cast prepare for, and understand, the risk of avalanches;
• crew and cast understand the risks
• ~ consider putting key crew members through safety courses; and
• ensure crew and cast are fit enough for the tasks required of them, such as having to hike for an extended period of time.

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