Performing in extreme heat: a risk not to be ignored !

With summer conditions and extreme weather changes, we can expect more frequent heat waves, so it’s vital to understand the importance of keeping cool, especially if you are shooting outdoors for long hours or in scenes with direct sunlight or performing in a heavy costume! 

Exposure to extreme heat can cause fatigue, exhaustion, drowsiness, dizziness, cramps, loss of balance, sun stroke, dehydration and can even cause fainting.  

The Ontario Government Safety Guidelines for the Film and Television Industry has important information  Adverse Weather Conditions.

ACTRA’s minimum working conditions also requires Production to provide the following:

• Appropriate shelter -rest area -which provides shade and proper air circulation (cooling fans)
• Big enough rest area to avoid overcrowding
• Accessible drinking water at all times
• Sufficient seats for everyone
• Respecting rest periods (and increasing them if needed due to extreme weather conditions)
• Assistance to Performers wearing restrictive costumes to remove them for breaks and meal times

We recommend that you also be prepared and bring the following:

• Water bottle,
• Sunscreen (please ask the makeup person before applying)
• Hat (please ask the hair person before wearing it between takes)
• Lighter change of clothes 
• Small ice pack or washcloth

Concerned about signaling a health/safety issue to production?  Do it as a group: cast & crew can approach Production together!

Questions/concerns? Contact ACTRA