In February, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration announced the renewal of its safety partnership with the United States Institute for Theatre Technology and the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees, Moving Picture Technicians, Artists and Allied Crafts of the United States, its Territories and Canada. The partnership is designed to help protect the health and safety of entertainment industry workers in Missouri and across the U.S.
During the partnership, which will last five years, USITT and IATSE members will be provided education and data on common injury hazards among entertainment industry workers. These hazards include falls, ergonomic-related injuries, electrical dangers and more. Meanwhile, USITT and IATSE will provide information to OSHA and other organizations on safety protocols in the entertainment industry, and partnership members will keep up to date on OSHA standards, enforcement, rulemaking and safety initiatives.
OSHA is the federal agency tasked with enforcing the Occupational Safety and Health Act. This law, which was established in 1970, requires that employers provide a safe working environment for their employees. The Alliance Program helps OSHA prevent worker injuries and illnesses by building collaborative relationships between the agency and other interested groups, such as trade and professional organizations, unions, businesses, community groups and educational institutions.
Entertainment industry workers who suffer an on-the-job injury may need to file a claim for workers’ compensation benefits, which cover medical costs and in some cases provide partial wage replacements. A workers’ compensation attorney could review the case and explain what the procedure entails.
Source: OH&S Online, “OSHA Renews Alliance to Protect Entertainment Industry Workers“, Feb. 27, 2018
