Bectu and UK Theatre Launch Updated Code of Conduct, Prioritising Safety Standards and Well-being in Theatre Activities.
Bectu and UK Theatre have unveiled a revised version of their "Code of Conduct (Get-ins, Fit-ups & Get-outs)," reinforcing safety measures for theatre production practices. The updated code, endorsed by the UK Government’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE), aims to ensure a secure working environment for all involved in theatre production activities.
The genesis of the original code of conduct traces back to a significant incident during the unloading of stage flooring, prompting Bectu and UK Theatre to establish safety standards. Launched at an Association of British Theatre Technicians Show panel event, the updated code follows an extensive period of collaboration between the union and employers.
Key Points:
1. Minimum Standards and Best Practices:
- The code establishes minimum standards for safety during get-ins (loading set components before the fit-up) and get-outs (clearing items post-production).
- Best practices are recommended for adoption wherever feasible.
2. Objectives of the Code:
- Enhance overall management of work activities.
- Ensure the right personnel for specific tasks.
- Provide accurate information and assessments.
- Facilitate communication about risks and their control.
- Promote cooperation and coordination during activities.
- Minimise accidents, injuries, and downtime for incident investigations.
- Elevate industry working practices and well-being.
3. Industry Benchmark:
- Bectu views the code as a benchmark of best practice in technical theatre.
- Aims to safeguard the safety and well-being of employees in both resident and production management roles.
4. Union Support and Well-being:
- Doug McGill, Bectu Organising Official, emphasises the right to a safe work environment.
- The code provides confidence to theatre workers that risks are monitored and minimised, prioritising their safety.
5. Venue and Production Adoption:
- Phill Brown of UK Theatre anticipates improvements in working conditions with full adoption.
- The code introduces incident monitoring reported to the union/management-led Theatre Safety Committee, adding governance to reduce work-related issues in touring circuits.
6. Longer Launch Duration:
- The updated code took longer to launch, with the expectation of significant enhancements in safety and health within the industry.
In the pursuit of creating a safer and healthier theatre industry, the updated Code of Conduct reflects a commitment to continuous improvement and sets the stage for enhanced safety standards and well-being in theatre production activities.
A message from our sponsors, The Ideas Distillery:
If you would like to look at how to implement an ISO 45001 H&S management system, then simply contact us.
Or, if you want to see what's involved in more detail, then get a completely free, no obligation, totally tailored ISO Gap Analysis for your business (only available to UK businesses).
Comments