Warner Bros. Client Area

SAFETY & ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

For the most current updates go to www.safetyontheset.com

4. SAFETY & ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS (S&EA)

  • 4.0 - Safety & Environmental Affairs: Overview

Warner Bros. Safety & Environmental Affairs provides support in three major areas: Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Affairs, and Feature/TV Production Safety.

 

S&EA works with in-house employees and production to create production safety guidelines and monitors all Warner Bros. productions worldwide, including: WBSO, WB Pictures, WBTV, WB Animation, Warner Unscripted Television, Bonanza Productions, Telepictures, SHED Media, and New Line Cinema, LLC.

 

S&EA also acts as the interface between the studio and government agencies representing the enforcement of local, state, and federal codes regulating employee occupational and environmental health and safety. (e.g. Cal/OSHA) and the environmental health of Warner Bros. Studio (EPA, SCAQMD, City of Burbank & LAC Dept. of Health). Warner Bros. expects all its employees to perform their work in a safe manner and report any safety concerns or unsafe practices they observe by calling the Anonymous Safety Hotline at 818-954-2800. If you have any questions or concerns regarding environmental regulations, chemical containing products, ergonomic safety, or food safety in your work area, please contact the Safety office at 818-954-2890.

 
  • For the purposes of this WBSO Operational Handbook, we have provided the following brief overview of some of the guidelines for the safe use of the WB facility. This overview contains general safety guidelines for employees and supervisors, safety training information for employees, and examples of the types of events that would trigger WB S&EA involvement. We also have provided some technical information regarding our Soundstage Floors and Trusses; Set Construction Safety; how to manage chemical-containing products; and environmental regulations covering air and water quality.

“Safety on the Set” Website

 

Additional safety information can be found on our S&EA website: www.safetyontheset.com and is available to all productions. There you will find a printable version of the Production Safety Manual for Warner Bros. and its affiliates, Codes of Safe Practices covering employee safety for both construction and production personnel, Tool Box Talks, updated Safety Bulletins from the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP), and the Safety Forms you will need to complete regularly during the construction, production and strike phases of your show.

 

The website is regularly updated to include new Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and information that will be helpful to your production in achieving compliance. Every employee has a role and responsibility in safety.

 

All employees, regardless of position, are required by law to notify management of any existing potential safety hazards of which they are aware. Use the Anonymous Safety Hotline (818) 954-2800.

HAVING A WELL-DEFINED AND DOCUMENTED SAFETY PROGRAM WILL HELP REDUCE ACCIDENTS AND INJURIES AND PROVIDE YOUR PRODUCTION WITH A SAFER WORK ENVIRONMENT.

  • 4.1 - Primary Contacts: On-lot Fire/Medical/Safety Emergency Line and S&EA Team

ON-LOT EMERGENCY LINE FIRE/MEDICAL/SAFETY

818-954-3333

Please call the WB on-lot emergency line for all fire, medical, safety and security emergencies. Calling (818) 954-3333 (or extension 4-3333 from any WB phone) will direct the call through WB Security Dispatch, which in turn has a direct line to the City of Burbank emergency dispatch system. This will allow gate officers to direct any incoming ambulances, fire engines, police, or paramedics to the proper location. This will also trigger an immediate response from WB Fire, Security and First Aid—as appropriate. Using the 911 emergency system will only delay the arrival of emergency responders from the Studio and City of Burbank.

ON-LOT SAFETY & ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS

Main Office

  • Office: 818-954-2890
  • Fax: 818-954-2805
 

Anonymous Safety Hotline

  • 818-954-2800
  • 877-566-8001 (TollFree)

S&EA On-Lot Team

Hours:  6:30AM-6PM, Monday through Friday (or by arrangement)

Location: Safety & Environmental Affairs (S&EA) is located on the North side of Building 44 (The Mill), 5th Street and Avenue C on the Second Floor, above the Canvas Room

  • 4.2 - Injury, Illness Prevention Program (IIPP)

INTRODUCTION

Warner Bros. Studios Operations believes that everyone benefits from a safe and healthful work environment. We are committed to maintaining an injury-free and illness-free workplace in compliance with applicable laws and regulations governing workplace safety.

To achieve this goal, the Company has adopted an Injury and Illness Prevention Program (IIPP). This program applies only to employees of Warner Bros. Studios. Any direct production hires should consult the Production Safety Manuals at www.safetyontheset.com. This program is everyone’s responsibility as we work together to identify and eliminate conditions and practices to ensure a safe and healthful work environment. Accordingly, WB has implemented this IIPP containing the following elements:

  • (1)
    Identification of a person or persons responsible for implementing the program.
  • (2)
    A system for ensuring that employees comply with safe and healthy work practices. Compliance includes recognition for employees who follow safe work practices, training, retraining, and disciplinary actions.
  • (3)
    A system for communicating health and safety matters to employees in language that they understand. Compliance includes meetings, training programs, posting written communications, and a system for anonymous notification by employees about hazards.
  • (4)
    Procedures for identifying and evaluating workplace hazards, including scheduled periodic inspections to identify unsafe conditions.
  • (5)
    A procedure to investigate injuries and illnesses.
  • (6)
    Procedures and/or methods for correcting unsafe or unhealthy conditions.
  • (7)
    Training and instruction for employees.

This policy is designed to improve workplace operations, reduce accidents and losses, and comply with California occupational safety and health regulations.

For all COVID-19 Return to Work (RTW) protocols, please refer to the following information:

STATEMENT OF POLICY

Workplace health and safety are of paramount importance to WB. Consistent with this policy, all employees are expected to be safety conscious and comply with WB’s health and safety policies and procedures at all times. Due to the importance of health and safety considerations to WB, employees who violate health and safety policies or procedures, or who cause hazardous situations, may be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

Any individual with information regarding an existing or potential unsafe condition or practice must immediately report the matter by notifying his or her supervisor, or by calling the Safety Hotline at (818) 954-2800 or (877) 566-8001 (toll-free). Calls to the Safety Hotline may be made anonymously.

Questions regarding this program or workplace safety may be directed to the Vice President of Safety and Environmental Affairs (SEA). The IIPP is available for review under WorkDay in the Reference Materials section under General Documents.

RESPONSIBILITY

All employees are expected to work conscientiously to implement and maintain the IIPP program. The Vice President, Safety and Environmental Affairs, is the program administrator, and has the authority and responsibility for implementing the provisions of this program. Any questions regarding the program should be directed to the program administrator.

SENIOR MANAGEMENT

Senior management must provide leadership by participation, example, and a demonstrated interest in the program.
 
Responsibilities include:
  • Establishing workplace objectives for accident and illness prevention.
  • Developing organizational policies, procedures, and disciplinary actions.
  • Allocating company resource for engineering controls, purchasing personal protective equipment, and identifying and controlling new and existing workplace hazards.

IIP PROGRAM ADMINISTRATOR

The program administrator is responsible for ensuring that all provisions of the IIPP are implemented.
 
Responsibilities include:
  • Advising senior management on safety and health policy issues.
  • Maintaining current information on local, state and federal safety and health regulations.
  • Acting as liaison with government agencies.
  • Planning, organizing and coordinating any necessary safety training.
  • Preparing and distributing company policies and procedures on workplace safety and health issues.
  • Developing Codes of Safe Practices (CSP) and inspection guidelines.
  • Arranging safety and health inspections and follow-up to ensure that necessary corrective action is completed.
  • Making sure that an adequate supply of personal protective equipment is available.
  • Establishing accident report and investigation procedures and maintaining injury and illness records.
  • Reviewing injury and illness trends/records.
  • Establishing a system for maintaining records of inspection, hazard abatement, and training.

SUPERVISORS

Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that employees know and abide by the Company policy and procedures regarding safety. They are expected to do everything within their control to assure a safe workplace in their area.
 
Responsibilities include:
  • Keeping abreast of safety and health regulations affecting operations they supervise.
  • Ensuring that each subordinate is able to and understands how to complete each assigned task safely.
  • Conducting on-the-job safety training of those they supervise.
  • Advising the program administrator of training needs of subordinates.
  • Making sure equipment and machines are in safe operating condition.
  • Ascertaining that subordinates follow safe work practices and Cal/OSHA regulations.
  • Ensuring that employees under their direction wear required protective equipment.
  • Correcting unsafe and unhealthful conditions within their power.
  • Notifying the Safety Department if they are unable to correct the condition.
  • Investigating accidents to discover cause(s) and identifying corrective action to prevent future occurrences as directed by the Safety Department.
  • Conducting periodic inspections of their work areas according to the appropriate inspection checklist(s).

ENFORCEMENT & COMPLIANCE

Management is responsible for ensuring that Company safety and health policies and procedures are clearly communicated and understood by all employees. Managers and supervisors are expected to enforce the rules fairly and uniformly. All employees are responsible for using safe work practices, for following all directives, policies and procedures, and for assisting in maintaining a safe work environment.

As part of an employee’s regular performance review, the employee will be evaluated on his/her compliance with safe work practices. Employees who make a significant contribution to the maintenance of a safe workplace, as determined by the program administrator, will receive management acknowledgment. Employees who are unaware of correct safety and health procedures will be trained or retrained. Employees who deliberately fail to follow safe work practices and/or procedures, or who violate the Company’s safety rules or directives, will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination.

COMMUNICATION

The Company recognizes that open, two-way communication between management and staff on health and safety issues is essential to an injury-free, productive workplace. Our communication system encourages all workers to inform their managers and supervisors about workplace hazards without fear of reprisal. The following system of communication is designed to facilitate a continuous flow of safety and health information between management and staff in a form that is readily understandable.

  • The new-employee orientation will include a written review of the Company’s IIPP and a discussion of policies and procedures that the employee is expected to follow.
  • The Company will schedule a time at general employee meetings when safety is freely and openly discussed by all present. Such meetings will be regularly scheduled and announced to all employees, so that maximum participation can occur.
  • From time to time, the Company will post and/or distribute written safety notifications. Employees should check Company bulletin boards regularly for such posting(s); the WB Safety Department website: safetyontheset.com or new department signage: https://client.wb.com/. Safety-related memos and documents are to be read promptly. Questions about the meaning or implementation of this information should be directed to the supervisor.
  • Other methods of communicating pertinent health and safety information include electronic mail, verbally, postings, and area or equipment specific
  • All employees are encouraged to inform their supervisor, the program administrator or designee of any matter which they perceive to be a workplace hazard and/or a potential workplace hazard.
  • Employees are also encouraged to make safety suggestions, training and request for special personal protective equipment for the job assigned.
  • If an employee so wishes, he/she may report a safety concern anonymously by calling the Anonymous Safety Hotline (818) 954-2800 or (877) 566-8001, stopping by in person to see the program administrator / safety department, or directly to their supervisor. An Employee Report of Safety Hazard form may be used by the employee
  • No employee shall be retaliated against for reporting hazards or potential hazards, or for making suggestions related to
  • All suggestions will be reviewed by the program administrator or designee, who will initiate an investigation of each report of a hazard, potential hazard or safety suggestion in accordance with Company procedures for hazard
  • Any directives issued as a result of the investigation shall be distributed to all employees affected by the hazard or shall be posted on appropriate bulletin boards.

 

WORKPLACE HAZARD EVALUATION AND ABATEMENT

Hazard control is the heart of an effective IIPP program. The company’s hazard control procedure is: identify hazards that exist or develop in the workplace, describe how to correct those hazards, and initiate steps to prevent their recurrence.

Assessment of Hazards

Inspection of the workplace is our primary tool used to identify unsafe conditions and practices. While we encourage all employees to continuously identify and correct hazards and poor safety practices, certain situations require formal evaluation and documentation.

Along with each inspection/investigation, the program administrator or designee shall evaluate the severity of the hazard identified, and if it cannot be abated immediately, suggest priority for corrective action. The Hazard Assessment and Correction Record or General Checklist for Facility Departments and Buildings is to be used to document inspections/investigations.

The program administrator or designee will conduct an inspection or investigation whenever any of the following occur:

  • Routinely in each work area, the time and frequency of inspection will be set by the program administrator or designee according to the type of work being performed in each worksite.
  • Prior to the periodic inspection, the inspector should review workplace injury reports and inspection reports which have been filed since the last investigation or inspection.
  • The Hazard Assessment and Correction Record for the appropriate work area is to be used by the inspector(s).
  • The introduction of new substances, processes, procedures or equipment presents a new safety/health hazard.

 

Each supervisor is responsible for promptly reporting to the program administrator or designee whenever a new substance (such as a chemical or solvent), new work procedure or technique, and/or new equipment are introduced which may pose a safety risk. A Notice to WB Safety of Potential New Hazards form shall be used by the supervisor.

Each supervisor’s report should include an evaluation of the potential hazard(s), training and/or other steps to be taken to provide abatement solutions for any potential hazard(s).

Based upon the information, the program administrator or designee will conduct an inspection and issue any directive that may be necessary.

The program administrator becomes aware of a new or previously unrecognized hazard, either independently or by receipt of information from an employee, including receipt of a Notice to WB Safety of Potential New Hazards form or Hazard Assessment and Correction Record.

  • An occupational injury, occupational illness, or near-miss accident occurs.
  • From time to time, the program administrator or designee may conduct unannounced inspections.

 

All investigations and findings shall be fully documented on the Hazard Assessment and Correction Record and filed as directed in Recordkeeping.
Abatement of Hazards

It is the Company’s intention to eliminate all hazards and unsafe work practices immediately. Some corrective actions require more time. Priority will be given to severe and imminent hazards.

The General Checklist for Facility Departments and Buildings / Hazard Assessment and Correction Record forms completed during the inspection/investigation will be used by the program administrator or designee to describe measures taken to abate the hazard or correct the unsafe work practice. Actions to be taken may include, but are not limited to:

  • Fixing or replacing defective equipment
  • Implementing safer procedures
  • Installing guards, modifying equipment
  • Employee training
  • Posting warning notices

 

All such actions taken and the dates they are completed shall be documented on the appropriate forms.

When corrective action involves multiple steps or cannot be completed promptly, an action plan needs to be developed. The Hazard Assessment and Correction Record is to be used for this purpose and filed as directed in Recordkeeping.

While corrective action is in progress, necessary precautions are to be taken to protect or remove employees from exposure to the hazard,

Employees shall not enter an imminent hazard area without prior specific approval of the program administrator or designee. Employees expected to correct the imminent hazard shall be properly trained and provided with necessary safeguards.

ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION

WB has implemented procedures to investigate occupational injuries and illnesses. The purpose of an accident investigation is to find the cause of an accident and prevent further occurrences – not to assign blame. A thorough and properly completed accident investigation is necessary to obtain facts. The investigation should focus on causes and hazards. Analysis of what happened and why it happened allows corrective actions to be devised and implemented to minimize a recurrent accident problem and determine how it can be prevented in the future.

Injury and Illness

The occurrence of an occupational injury and/or illness precipitates a document called Employer’s Report of Injury (CA 5020). This report is completed by the injured employee’s supervisor, and a copy of the report is to be sent to the program administrator ASAP or designee and no later than 24 hours from the time of occurrence. Upon receipt, the program administrator:

  • Reports fatalities and serious injuries (injury (e.g., hospitalization over 24 hours for other than observation) or illness immediately by phone or FAX to the nearest office of the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (CCR Title 8, Section 342).
  • Investigates the incident by visiting the site and interviewing the victim and witnesses.

TRAINING AND INSTRUCTION

Training is essential to maximizing the skills and knowledge of employees. It is the key to productivity.
  • The Company has a duty to include safety as an integral part of employee training. Employees need to work safely as well as productively and efficiently. The supervisor is the essential link in ensuring the proper outcome.
  • Supervisors must know how to perform a designated job and be aware of safety and health hazards facing employees under their immediate supervision. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that they themselves and those under their direction receive training on general workplace safety, as well as on safety and health issues specific to each job.
  • With this in mind, training will be conducted with the following considerations:
  Supervisors
  • The program administrator or designee will consult with department administrators or supervisors to determine training topics and needs of supervisors – these include human relations, trainer skills, production/process skills, and familiarization with hazards and risks faced by employees.
 
  • Supervisors who recognize their own need for training are encouraged to submit a direct request for training in any area in which they feel deficient.
  Employees
  • Supervisors are expected to assess training needs of all employees under their direction. They are to train those they supervise in general workplace safety and give them specific instructions regarding hazards unique to any job assignment, to the extent that such information was not already covered in other trainings.
  The Company recognizes that continuing safety and health training is needed for:  
  • Employees given a job assignment for which they have not previously received training. If the position is supervisory, such training shall include familiarization with hazards and risks faced by the employees under the supervisor’s
 
  • Whenever new substances, processes, procedures or equipment pose a new
 
  • Whenever the supervisor, program administrator or designee becomes aware of a previously unrecognized
 
  • All employees in periodic refresher safety training involving general workplace safety, job-specific hazards, and/or hazardous materials, as
  All training shall be documented on one of the training record forms and filed as directed in Recordkeeping.

RECORDKEEPING

No operation can be successful without record keeping that enables the company to learn from past experience and make corrections for future operations. In addition, the IIPP regulation requires records to be kept of the steps taken to establish and maintain the Company’s Injury and Illness Prevention Program.

Injury and Illness Prevention Program Records

Each supervisor will maintain an updated copy of the Company’s IIPP. The program administrator will retain the following records on file for at least three (3) years:

  • Master copy of IIPP, changes/updates
  • Documents verifying that the Company has maintained ongoing two-way communications with employees, such as:
    • Memos, letters to employees on safety and health issues
    • New employee safety orientation session acknowledgment form
    • Employee suggestions or Anonymous Calls and Company response

 

  • All records of inspections/investigations – including date, name of person who performed the inspection/investigation, unsafe conditions and work practices identified, corrective action taken and date of correction – forms covered in this category include:
    • Employee Report of Safety Hazard
    • General Checklist for Facility Departments and Buildings Hazard Assessment and Correction Record
    • Accident/ Incident Investigation Report

 

  • Records of safety and health training received by employees – containing the employee’s name, training date, type of training and identification of trainer – example are:
    • Tool Box Talk or Safety Meeting Attendance Form
    • Notice to WB Safety of Potential New Hazards or New Employee
    • Employee Acknowledgment for Receipt of General Safety Guidelines
  • 4.3 - Ten Important Points to Help Keep Your Employees Safe
  • 1.
    HIRE CSATF SAFETY PASS TRAINED EMPLOYEES.
    Only those who have completed Safety Pass Training are eligible for employment at Warner Bros.
  • 2.
    FALL PROTECTION IS MANDATORY WHEN WORKING AT HEIGHTS
    Fall protection is required when working outside of the catwalks in the permanents of a soundstage, on unprotected roofs and elevated platforms, all aerial lifts, and in other locations and circumstances.
  • 3.
    ALWAYS PROPERLY DISPOSE OF PAINT OR CHEMICAL-CONTAINING PRODUCTS
    It is much more cost effective to recycle your waste than to dispose of it. If waste materials cannot be recycled, then proper disposal procedures must be followed. Improper disposal of waste can result in substantial regulatory fines to your production.  Avoid extra costs by recycling or handling paint waste carefully. For proper disposal instructions contact, Brent Gale (818-954-3880).
  • 4.
    DO NOT OVERLOAD THE STAGE FLOORS OR TRUSSES
    Contact Office & Production Services (818-954-6777) or S&EA (818-954-2890) for help in determining truss and soundstage loading allowances.
  • 5.
    DO NOT PUT ANYTHING DOWN THE STORM DRAINS
    The storm drains at Warner Bros. Studio lead directly to the L.A. River, which in turn drains directly into the Pacific Ocean. Anything that goes into the storm drains is ultimately discharged untreated to the ocean. “Anything” includes soapy water, paint, oil, grease, ice drippings, dirt, sawdust, paint chips, tap water, soda, etc. The only substance that may legally enter the storm drains is rainwater.  Fines totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars are levied against companies that discharge into the storm drain system illegally, and these fines will be passed on to production companies if resulting from their production’s activities.
  • 6.
    DO NOT SHIP DANGEROUS GOODS VIA AIR
    Dangerous goods are any chemical-containing products that are shipped by mail. One studio was recently fined $47,000 by the FAA for shipping two undeclared and improperly packaged cans of Streaks N’ Tips via air.
  • 7.
    DO NOT USE AN AERIAL / SCISSOR LIFT OR CONDOR WITHOUT A SAFETY HARNESS
    The California Occupational Safety & Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) and WBSO both require harnesses when using any type of lift.
  • 8.
    ALL WATER DISCHARGE MUST MEET BURBANK SEWER DISCHARGE REQUIREMENTS
    Water used in stage tanks, the Lagoon, and on exterior sets (e.g. rain bars, wet downs, etc.) must be discharged to the sanitary sewer.  Production needs to meet with Office & Production Services, Plumbing and S&EA to discuss water disposal procedures.  There are restrictions on the use of dyes, oils and other chemicals added to the water.  There may also be discharge timing and flow rate limitations.
  • 9.
    ROUGH TERRAIN FORKLIFTS (GRADALLS) REQUIRE PRIOR APPROVAL
    Rough terrain forklifts (e.g., Gradalls) are a very specialized piece of lifting equipment and should only be operated by personnel that has been properly trained on the equipment and has been cleared to use it.
  • 10.
    IF YOU HAVE ANY SAFETY CONCERNS OR QUESTIONS, CALL S&EA AT (818-954-2890) or the ANONYMOUS SAFETY HOTLINE (818-954-2800).
  • 4.4 - Staff & Crew Training

Contract Services Safety Pass

 

In order to be eligible for employment with any Warner Bros. related or affiliated entity, employees working in IATSE and Basic Crafts represented classifications must be current in the completion of their respective Safety Pass Courses.  An employee’s Safety Pass status may be verified by reviewing his/her/their Contract Services Safety Pass Card.  For information on Safety Pass, please refer to www.CSATF.org or contact Safety Pass at 818-847-0040. It is located at: 2710 Winona Ave., Burbank, CA 91504.

DGA Safety Class

DGA members are required to attend and pass a two-hour DGA Safety Training. Upon completion of the class, members are eligible to monitor any of the twenty-six Safety Pass classes that they would like to take to better understand IATSE safety requirements. Please contact CSATF to schedule.

Orienting Your Employees to Safety

Supervisory employees who direct the work of other employees are to actively participate in scheduling, conducting safety meetings and training classes and to ensure the attendance of all employees. Supervisors are to also provide site-specific safety information to all employees on their first day on the job, including the following:

  • 1.
    Emergency Procedures: emergency phone numbers, emergency exit locations, evacuation training and emergency relocation area, any special shut-down procedures, etc. Please spread the on-lot Warner Bros. emergency number (818-954-3333) to all staff and crew.
  • 2.
    The location and operation of safety equipment: fire extinguishers, eye wash station & first aid department, etc.
  • 3.
    Ensure that each employee has received the appropriate General Safety Guidelines for Production (Form 1) and any specific Codes of Safe Practices for the use of tools, equipment, and materials that they encounter while performing their work. Special attention should be given to the handling and storage of potentially hazardous material.
  • 4.
    Be aware that employees new to the industry (i.e. Permits) should not be assigned work that requires special training, such as the use of respirators or areas requiring fall protection equipment, operating forklifts/condors/scissors lifts, using high-reach forklifts or other heavy equipment, working in potential confined spaces, etc. During “Permit” status, assign an experienced employee to monitor their work.
  • 5.
    Consult the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers (AMPTP) Safety Bulletins if potentially hazardous activities are scheduled, such as pyrotechnic events, stunts, use of firearms, etc. A walk-through of the event should be conducted with all involved cast and crew members. A copy of the applicable AMPTP Safety Bulletin is available at www.safetyontheset.com and should be attached to that day’s call sheet, made available or conspicuously posted.
  • 6.
    See to it that employees are provided with Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and understand the selection, use, care, limitations and location of any PPE that is needed for their job assignment

Provide additional worksite-specific safety training when:

  • 1.
    A new employee is hired.
  • 2.
    Any employee is given a new job assignment for which they have not been trained.
  • 3.
    New substances, processes, procedures, or equipment are introduced into the workplace.
  • 4.
    The employer/manager is made aware of a new or previously unrecognized hazard.
  • 5.
    Utilizing unfamiliar locations at WBSO.

Any questions or guidance to the above can be addressed by calling S&EA at 818-954-2890.  Warner Bros. employees can also receive site-specific safety training, including fall protection or guidance on machinery, respirator fit testing or chemical products.

  • 4.5 - Production Start-Up Guidelines For Warner Bros. Productions

To help you take the first steps toward keeping your production in compliance with safety regulations, we have provided the following “Warner Bros. Production Start-Up Guidelines.”

  • 1.
    Have your UPM or Production Office Coordinator call your Production Safety Representative to set up your Pre-Production Safety Orientation Meeting.

All Warner Bros.-affiliated productions are to meet with a Production Safety Representative prior to the start of production. All key department heads should attend the meeting, including but not limited to: Unit Production Manager (UPM), First Assistant Director, Second Assistant Director, Construction Coordinator, Location Manager, Key Grip, Gaffer, Best Boys, and Transportation Coordinator.

  • 2.
    As required by Warner Bros. policy, make sure that the General Safety Guidelines for Production (Form 1) is attached to the production’s deal memo prior to hiring, and that each employee’s signed Safety Guidelines Acknowledgement Form is on file before they start work. These documents are available at www.safetyontheset.com. Keep the original signature sheets on file and send copies to your Production Office Coordinator.
  • 3.
    Ensure your production hires only CSATF Safety Pass trained crew members by checking the CSATF Experience Roster at csatf.org.
  • 4.
    Have your Production Coordinator fill out Form 2 (IIPP Contact List) and Form 4 (Serious Accident or Set Emergency Notification Procedures). Keep a readily accessible copy for production.

The State of California (Cal/OSHA) requires every employer to have its own Injury & Illness Prevention Program (IIPP). For Warner Bros. productions, Safety & Environmental Affairs has already written your productions IIPP.  It is available for download on S&EA’s website: www.safetyontheset.com. This site provides access to Form 2 and Form 4.

  • 5.
    Review the Position Safety Responsibilities section on the safetyontheset.com website. Have applicable members of the production also review this document, which outlines the safety responsibilities of every position on production. This is required by Cal/OSHA, which mandates that the IIPP assign safety duties appropriate to employees’ positions. Cal/OSHA requires every IIPP to assign safety duties.

Also available at www.safetyontheset.com are the following:

    • Safety Forms
    • Tool Box Talks
    • Codes of Safe Practices
    • Links to AMPTP Safety Bulletins
    • Links to check with CSATF that employees are fully trained
    • Links to other helpful safety information and safety resource website
  • 6.
    Productions working on the WB Main Lot or WB Ranch should review the Safety Manual Supplement for Productions found on the safetyontheset.com website. This portion of the website contains information on environmental regulations impacting productions—and other information.

CALL WB SAFETY (818-954-2890) WHEN:

  • 1.
    Planning your first Production Meeting of the season so that your Production Safety Representative can arrange a Production Safety Orientation. You may also contact your Production Safety Representative directly.
  • 2.
    Planning a major stunt, car chase, or special effect.
  • 3.
    Flying rigs are used.
  • 4.
    Helicopters, aircraft, watercraft, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATV’s) are used.
  • 5.
    Prior to any use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles or Unmanned Aerial Camera Platforms (i.e. drones).
  • 6.
    Planning to film in, on, or around water.
  • 7.
    Intending to drain the Lagoon, Stage 15 or Stage 16 water tanks, or Ranch pool, or any other filming pool.
  • 8.
    Production may impact the public at large, public waterways, streams, lakes, reservoirs, or public lands.
  • 9.
    Using a warehouse as a soundstage.
  • 10.
    Contemplating demolition of any major set or structure.
  • 11.
    Drums of hazardous materials not associated with your production are present upon arrival.
  • 12.
    Production employees may be exposed to safety hazards or hazardous materials that are present as a result of the proximity to another employee, production company, or vendor.
  • 13.
    Scaffolds three stories (36 feet) or higher are being constructed.
  • 14.
    Cranes and equipment exceeding 10,000 lb. are used on a soundstage.
  • 15.
    You have questions about the load-bearing capacity of a stage floor, truss, or backlot platform (roof, fire escape, etc.)
  • 16.
    You suspect the presence of asbestos, lead paint, or another environmental hazard on location.
  • 17.
    You need safety equipment, such as fall protection.
  • 18.
    An employee lacks safety training to operate equipment or perform a task.
  • 19.
    You need assistance with ergonomics issues relating to your workspace.
  • 20.
    You have food safety concerns.
  • 21.
    You have questions about the “Safety Pass Program.”
  • 22.
    A Cal-OSHA or other governmental agency inspector visits your stage or location. The inspector should be asked to wait, if possible, until a representative of S&EA is on site. (See Inspection Procedures for OSHA and Other Regulatory Agencies on the following page.)
Please fax or email script pages and complete appropriate Production Safety Forms to S&EA for review.
  • 4.6 - Productions Not Affiliated with Warner Bros.

CALL WB SAFETY (818-954-2890) WHEN:

  • 1.
    Opening your production office or scheduling your first tech scout. We would like to discuss your production’s safety program and obtain information regarding safety while at WBSO.
  • 2.
    Planning a major stunt, car chase, or special effect.
  • 3.
    Helicopters, aircraft, watercraft, motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles (ATV’s) are used.
  • 4.
    Prior to any use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles or Unmanned Aerial Camera Platforms (i.e. drones).
  • 5.
    Planning to film in, on, or around water.
  • 6.
    Intending to drain the Lagoon, Stage 15 or Stage 16 water tanks, or Ranch pool, or any other filming pool.
  • 7.
    Contemplating demolition of any major set or structure.
  • 8.
    Drums of hazardous materials not associated with your production are present upon arrival.
  • 9.
    Production employees may be exposed to safety hazards or hazardous materials that are present as a result of the proximity to another employee, production company, or vendor.
  • 10.
    Scaffolds three stories (36 feet) or higher are being constructed.
  • 11.
    Cranes and equipment exceeding 10,000 lb. are used on a soundstage.
  • 12.
    You have questions about the load-bearing capacity of a stage floor, truss, or backlot platform (roof, fire escape, etc.)
  • 13.
    A Cal-OSHA or other governmental agency inspector visits your stage or location. The inspector should be asked to wait, if possible, until a representative of S&EA is on site. (See Inspection Procedures for OSHA and Other Regulatory Agencies on the following page.)
  • 4.7 - Inspection Procedures for OSHA And Other Regulatory Agencies

Several types of events or scenarios may cause an inspector from the California Occupational Safety Health Administration (Cal/OSHA) or other California State regulatory agency to visit the set.  Some examples: a serious accident has occurred; an employee complaint has been registered with a regulatory agency, the inspector was driving by the production and noticed areas of non-compliance.

If an inspector arrives, follow the procedures below:

  • 1.
    Notify the Department of Safety & Environmental Affairs (S&EA) immediately at 818-954-2890, as well as your physical production executiv Inform the inspector that you cannot proceed with the inspection until those notifications have been made.
  • 2.
    If requested by S&EA or the Production Attorney, ask the OSHA inspector to wait for S&EA’s arrival. If authorized by S&EA, accompany the inspector directly to the site in question If possible, do not let the inspector wander into other areas.
  • 3.
    The inspector’s credentials should be requested and examined, and the nature of the visit should be determi Be courteous, but cautious.
  • 4.
    Do not sign anything or provide any written documentation. Ask that their request for any written material be put in writing so that we may respond in writing, as this is company policy.
  • 5.
    Under OSHA regulations, an inspector has the right to privately interview crew member However, the crew 
members should be informed by the Production or S&EA that they have the right to have either a union representative or attorney present during the interview.
  • 6.
    The inspector has the right to take photograph. However, it is important that the production company takes 
duplicate photographs of those taken by the inspector.
  • 7.
    DO NOT volunteer information or speculation. Provide short, direct, concise answers to questions posed by the inspector. If you truly don’t know the answers, simply tell the inspector that you “do not know”.
  • 8.
    Take detailed notes during the inspection Immediately after the inspection forward a copy of the notes to the VP S&EA as well as your production’s management.
  • 9.
    Depending upon the severity of the incident, the results of the inspection may determine whether there is basis for the State to pursue criminal action, and an inspector may not inform you of this However, you have the right to remain silent; have your business agent in attendance and/or the right to have legal counsel present when making statements to inspectors.
  • 4.8 - Craft Service: Food Preparation On Sets And Mobile Food Vehicles

All productions working at Warner Bros. Studios are expected to comply with LA County Department of Public Health guidelines regarding service of food and refreshments.  Please see the following bulletins from LAC DPH, which addresses food that can be served by craft service without a permit, protocols for receipt of food delivery, and information about mobile food facilities and catering operations.

 
Mobile Food Facility Vehicles*

Food served by an employee of a Certified Food Facility who possesses a Food Manager Card or Handling Card for Catering is permissible; however, the kitchens in the WBSO sound stages are not permitted and cannot be used for any food preparation.

 

If you intend to use a Mobile Food Preparation Truck (Hot Truck); a Mobile Food Facility (Cold Truck); Trailer, Cart or any of the other mobile food facility vehicles, the LA County Department of Public Health requires that the person cooking in the mobile food facility must have a current “Manager’s Food Handling Certificate”, and the vehicle(s) must be permitted by the LAC DPH Vehicle Inspection Program (V.I.P.).  Permit requirements to operate a food truck or any food service are complex, and the process to obtain the agency’s permit can be slow and laborious.

The following documents, stickers, etc. are necessary to know that the truck/trailer is in compliance:

  • 1.
    County of Los Angeles “Public Health Operating Permit” (Annual)
  • 2.
    Initial Inspection Sticker (Issued when truck passed VIP inspection.)
If you have any questions please call Gloria Gama-Tafoya (818-954-2890), Manager Ergonomics and Safety Resources. You may also reach LAC DHS Vehicle Inspection Program (V.I.P.) at 626-430-5500, or the Food and Milk Program at (626) 430-5400
  • 4.9 - Air Quality: Production Considerations

In Southern California, the oversight of air quality is the responsibility of the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). The SCAQMD has enacted rules that regulate the use and operation of many materials, processes and equipment that may be used by your production company.  The following guidelines and regulations have been developed to help you comply with these regulatory requirements.

Visible Emissions

If your production company will be using fires, explosions or large-scale effects involving airborne smoke or dust you will need to notify Office & Production Services and S&EA prior to the effect. Regulations enforced by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) forbid the airborne release of smoke, dust or other visible emissions that last more than three minutes in duration within any one-hour period.  S&EA can assist you in complying with this regulation.

Portable Generators

While WBSO has many power supplies available across our facilities and generally wishes to avoid the use of portable generators, portable generators may be approved for usage in conjunction with certain production equipment, or in locations where a power supply is unavailable.  Internal combustion engine-driven portable generators are regulated by the SCAQMD because of the exhaust gases that are generated and released into the atmosphere. To comply with the applicable SCAQMD regulations, daily and hourly use records must be kept by the portable generator operator. The SCAQMD regulations governing the use of generators are extensive, but most of them will not impact your production company if you rent the generator from an equipment rental company.

When deciding on the placement of generators, consideration must be given to the effect of exhaust gases on employees working downwind or in adjacent occupied buildings.  This will help to avoid re-location of the generators during production, which may be required due to errant diesel fumes or other health concerns. Please address this with Office & Production Services and S&EA on your location tech scouts.

Coatings, Paint, and Other Paint-Related Materials

Nearly all production companies use paints, stains, primers, etc., and all of these materials are regulated by the SCAQMD. Your paint foremen should be aware of the limitations imposed by these regulations because they govern the chemical content and use of all coatings and paints.  All coatings sold through the Warner Bros. Studio Paint Department are SCAQMD compliant for their intended use.

The equipment used to apply coatings is also regulated by the SCAQMD.  Certain limitations apply to spray guns, which may need an SCAQMD Permit to operate. Other limitations apply to the construction and operation of spray booths.  A permit must be obtained prior to the construction of any spray booth, even if it’s temporary. Finally, remind all workers working with coatings or other chemical-based products to keep the lids tightly on cans when not in use, and to store all rags in closed containers.

If you need additional information or guidance on what products can be legally or used selected, please contact Brent Gale at (818) 954-3880.

Purchasing non-compliant paint and paint-related materials off-lot for use on the lot is a violation of SCAQMD Regulations and Warner Bros. policy. Violators and their Supervisors will be brought to the attention of Labor Relations.

  • 4.10 - General Warnings And Notifications / Set Construction Safety

General Warnings and Notifications

PROP 65 WARNING
California Prop 65 requires businesses to give a “clear and reasonable warning” prior to exposing any person to a detectable amount of a chemical listed by the state as covered by the Prop 65 Statute.

The list contains a wide range of chemicals. Many of them are ingredients or components of common household products, such as ceramic ware, alcoholic beverages and aspirin. Others may be byproducts of certain combustion processes, such as motor vehicle exhaust, tobacco smoke and burning natural gas. Still others may be chemical- containing products such as dyes, or specialty pigments.

Therefore, as required by the CA Prop 65 Statute, the following Prop 65 Warning is provided:

“WARNING: This facility contains chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm.”

NOTIFICATION TO EMPLOYEES: ASBESTOS-CONTAINING BUILDING MATERIALS

Both state and federal law require building owners to notify occupants of the presence of any asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in buildings in which they work. We are making this notification to comply with these laws, and because it is Warner Bros. Studios policy to make such information available.

BACKGROUND

Asbestos-containing materials were commonly used in the construction of buildings and homes prior to 1979. ACM were once used as part of certain building materials, such as insulation, roofing materials, floor tiles, and spray-on insulation.

Warner Bros. Studio has a comprehensive Operation and Maintenance Plan for Asbestos Containing Materials. Under this plan, we use licensed ACM abatement firms to remove ACM from mechanical rooms and exposed pipes and ducts; and to remove any ACM present prior to or discovered while doing Studio remodeling and renovation work. In addition, we have conducted air sampling in all WB buildings known to contain ACM. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and The Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) set standards for building occupancy, and we are pleased to say that all WBSO buildings meet these standards.

The following WBSO buildings are known to contain ACM and are subject to this notification: 4, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 18, 19, 22, 27, 31, 34, 35, 37, 41, 44, 51, 52, 53, 54, 55, 56, 58, 59, 66, 67, 68, 69, 71, 76, 81, 90, 95, 131, 133, 135, 137, 138, 139, 140, 142, 143, 146, 151, 154, 155 and 3R.

The survey reports and bulk sample and air sample test reports for particular building locations are available for inspection by appointment. Because inhalation of unprotected airborne asbestos fibers may pose serious potential health risks, it is important that you not disturb potential ACM (i.e., by drilling, sanding or hammering) without first calling S&EA at 818-954-2890 to receive clearance.

WB Productions – Specialized Safety Equipment / Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Safety & Environmental Affairs (S&EA) maintains a variety of specialized safety equipment that is available for use by WB employees.  S&EA’s safety-related equipment inventory includes items like face shields, hearing protection, fall protection equipment, horizontal safety lines, vertical rope grabs, Nomex clothing (coveralls, gloves, and hoods), airline respirators, potential confined space ventilators, and high-velocity ducted air machines.  Disposable of personal protective equipment (PPE) is provided to individual employees free-of charge to protect them in a variety of work conditions.  Other more expensive and specialized equipment is provided for your departments and production companies free of charge; however, lost or abused equipment will be charged to the production.

Fall protection is mandatory when working in situations that expose employees to potential falls greater than 4 feet in height and where guardrails are absent.  Some examples: outside of the catwalks in the permanents of a soundstage; on roofs, shooting platforms or decks built for set construction.

When larger quantities of items are required, such as for an entire crew, disposable items such as safety glasses, dust masks, earplugs, gloves, and goggles, and other PPE items are available for purchase through the WBSO Paint Department (818) 954-4444, or VER Sales (818) 567-3000.  In addition, S&EA maintains a limited supply of expendable safety equipment to be used in emergency scenarios.

Please call S&EA with any questions or concerns at (818) 954-2890.

Third Party Productions – Personal Protective Equipment

Productions unaffiliated with WB or its production entities who are leasing production space from WBSO are responsible to supply their employees with Personal Protective Equipment as required by Cal/OSHA. Please call S&EA (818) 954-2890 for specific requirements. This equipment can be purchased or rented from VER Sales in Burbank (818) 567-3000.

Fall protection is mandatory when working in situations that expose employees to potential falls greater than 4 feet in height and where guardrails are absent. Some examples: outside of the catwalks in the permanents of a soundstage; on roofs, shooting platforms or decks built for set construction.

  • 4.11 - Managing Chemical-Containing Products

General Purchasing Practices

Purchase materials, especially chemical products, in the smallest quantity possible.

Paint and Painting Materials

Purchase paint and paint-related products that comply with all local or state environmental regulatory agency requirements. The WBSO Paint Dept. sells compliant painting materials. Paint rags should be used sparingly.  Air drying rags or throwing used rags, brushes, rollers, stir sticks, etc. in the trash is illegal.

Compressed Gases

Have all compressed gases delivered by the vendor to your location.  Never throw compressed gas cylinders in the trash. Chain all cylinders in an upright position with valve covers tightened down. Segregate incompatible gases such as flammables (propane, acetylene etc.) from oxidizers (oxygen, etc.).

Construction Subcontractors

Inform all subcontractors you employ that the disposal of any waste generated by the subcontractor is the responsibility of the subcontractor. All waste must be taken by the subcontractor once the job is complete. Inspect their worksite frequently and watch for any dumping of waste materials into the waste hopper, storm drains, toilets, or sinks.

Special Effects and Environmental Considerations

Any form of artificial snow cannot be washed down storm drains. SnoFoam should be allowed to dry into a solid and then swept up and disposed of as trash.  Special Effects materials should be evaluated and disposed of appropriately by the FX person in charge.

Cleaning Up Spills of Hazardous Material

All spills should be cleaned up promptly. The first priority after a spill is the safety of all personnel.  Once personnel are safe, and if a qualified person is present, the environment should be protected by stopping the spill from reaching storm drains, sumps, gutters, soil, or bodies of water.

If a spill occurs, avoid touching it, walking in it or breathing it, and immediately take these steps:

  1. Use sand or spill absorption materials to build a dike well ahead of the course of the spill. Once the flow of material has been stopped, absorb the spill using absorbent or sand.
  2. For large spills, or small spills of flammable materials, immediately call the WBSO emergency hotline: (818) 954-3333.
  3. Once the spill is absorbed, safely sweep or shovel up the spill-contaminated material into a labeled container. Do not throw spill debris into the trash; it must be disposed of as hazardous waste.

When time permits, or if you are unable to clean up the spill, please report the spill and any containment efforts to S&EA at (818) 954-2890 or call the Hazardous Waste Facility at (818) 954-1271. The WBSO Fire Department can also help clean up a spill—especially during after-hours or on weekends. They can be reached at (818) 954-1261.

Hazardous Material Storage and Disposal

Any chemical containing products or hazardous materials productions is bringing onto the lot must be stored and segregated correctly by following the guidelines given on each product’s warning label. Do not store drums of materials or waste outside of any building or soundstage.  Secondary containment may be required for proper drum storage, even if indoors. For further guidance, contact Brent Gale at (818) 954-3880.

Hazardous waste generated by in-house productions must be disposed of through the WBSO Hazardous Waste Facility.  Examples of materials that are to be handled as hazardous wastes include: waste paint, paintbrush rinse water, paint rags, thinners, solvents, oils, empty aerosol cans, adhesives, special effects products, used brushes, rollers and stir sticks, etc. To arrange for disposal, contact Brent Gale at (818) 954-3880

Painting Operations / Waste Paint Consolidation and Labeling Guidelines

These guidelines are to be followed by all employees working with paint and paint-related materials while at Warner Bros. Studio or on location for a Warner Bros. production.

Productions working on the WBSO Main Lot should take all waste described below to the Hazardous Waste Facility (Avenue D and Eighth Street). For waste at the Ranch or on location, contact Brent Gale at (818) 954-3880.

  • Painting operations on soundstages or in the Mill (Bldg. 44) that generate irritating odors should be scheduled during off hours whenever possible. If other productions working in the Mill complain – off hour scheduling is mandatory. Ventilation (i.e., stage fans and floor fans) should be used to dissipate odors.
  • Water-based paint waste and solvent-based paint waste are to be kept separate from one another and as clean of debris as possible. Water-based paint that is free of debris and not contaminated with any solvent-based paint can be recycled. Since recyclable paint is less expensive to dispose of than contaminated paint (which must be disposed as hazardous waste), you can save your production money by recycling as much of your water-based paint as possible.
  • Store any flammable waste paints in 5 gal. buckets. (e.g., acetone, “Japans”). Label them “Flammable Paint”.
  • Paint-related materials such as brushes, rollers, and stir sticks are to be isolated in a separate bucket that does not contain paint. Label them “Brushes/Rollers”.
  • Waste latex, vinyl, and other water-based paints should also be stored in 5 gal. buckets. Label them “Water-Based Paint”.
  • Sawdust, sand or other absorbents used in spill cleanup should be isolated and sealed in a separate bucket that does not contain paint. “Label them “Used Spill Cleanup of (insert name of material)”.
  • Used plastic bucket liners should be wiped as clean as possible while the paint is still wet, and then crushed and packaged in a separate 5 gal. bucket and labeled “Bucket Liners”. All aerosol cans are to be disposed of separately from other waste paint-related material, preferably in a 5-gallon bucket, sealed and labeled “Empty Spray Cans”. Do not store aerosol cans in the sunlight.
  • Empty waste paint buckets should be wiped clean while still wet and then sealed in plastic garbage bags (tied shut) and labeled “Empty Paint Cans”.
  • Used paint rags should be packed in a 5-gallon bucket and labeled “Used Paint Rags”.
  • When filling buckets with waste paint, do not fill the bucket to the rim. Leave 2-3 inches headspace to allow for expansion.
  • All wash water from washing brushes, rollers, buckets, etc. is to be saved and handled in the same manner as water-based paint waste. Buckets should be labeled “Brush Water”.

Waste Paint Accumulation Limits

A total of fifty-five gallons (11 five-gallon buckets) of waste paint and waste paint-related materials may be accumulated inside the stage or on the set if the following conditions are met:

  • All FLAMMABLE WASTE (solvent and solvent rags) must be correctly labeled and stored in sealed five-gallon buckets in a fire department-approved flammable cabinet. The maximum allowable accumulation time of any flammable waste-containing buckets, paints or brushes is one week.
  • All NON-FLAMMABLE WASTE (latex, vinyl, used rags) must be correctly labeled and stored in sealed plastic five-gallon buckets separate from the main paint inventory. The maximum allowable accumulation time is two weeks.
  • All used rollers, paint brushes, and sticks shall be stored in sealed five-gallon buckets and not mixed with paint. The maximum allowable accumulation time is two weeks.


Waste Paint Drop-Off Procedures When at Warner Bros. Studios

All studio departments and production companies are required to drop off their hazardous waste at the WBSO Hazardous Waste Facility Bldg.  78, located South of Bldg. 47 at the intersection of Avenue D and 8th Street.  Note: Non-WB Productions purchasing paint from WBSO are eligible for hazardous waste services.

When the maximum allowable fifty-five-gallon storage limit has been reached (any combination of the above waste categories equaling a total of 11 five-gallon buckets), the following procedures shall be followed:

  • All containers shall have listed on them; 1) The production or department name, 2) The container contents, labeled as described above, and 3) The stage number or set where the waste was generated.
  • The Hazardous Waste Facility must be called in advance to make sure the facility is open to accept the waste. To schedule a drop-off, call (818) 954-1271 or (818) 954-2890.
  • Waste drop-offs will only be scheduled to be received between the hours of 6:15 a.m. and 2:15 p.m., unless special arrangements are made.
  • Waste shall not be allowed to accumulate into large quantities on stage or in departments. Frequent, smaller waste drop-offs should be made. Plan for chemical inventory and disposal when hiatus periods are approaching.
  • Waste shall not be left at the Hazardous Waste Facility if there is no one there to accept it, especially if after hours.


Please call Brent Gale at (818) 954-3880 or Robert Contreraz (818) 954-1271 if you have any questions.

Waste Paint Disposal Procedures When on Local Location

When returning paint-related materials to WBSO (including brush water), attach a label to the bucket that exactly describes the contents of the bucket, as described above in “Waste Paint Consolidation and Labeling.”

Do not use terms such as “Sludge” or “Waste” to describe the contents of a bucket! In the event of a spill or mishap, police or fire departments may call for the Fire Department Hazardous Materials Response Team if all containers of chemical- containing buckets are not properly labeled.

Leftover paint and brush water that can still be used can be transported back to the Main Lot. Materials that are considered “waste” cannot be transported by production and will need to be picked up by a licensed hauler. Contact Brent Gale for assistance at (818) 954-3880.

Used materials that cannot be reused are considered waste and cannot be transported back to the main lot. This waste will need to be picked up by a licensed hazardous waste hauler; S&EA has a list of pre-approved haulers.  The pickup will require the acquisition of an EPA ID Number, which may take in excess of two weeks.  Waste cannot be picked up or shipped until the number has been issued by the EPA, as it will be required on the federal hazardous waste manifests.  Disposal in any other manner is against WB Policy.

If your production company anticipates that it will be generating any used chemical-containing materials off-lot that will be considered “waste,” contact Brent Gale at (818) 954-3880.

  • 4.12 - WBSO Sewer and Storm Drain Policies

The types of materials discharged to the sewer or storm drain systems are highly regulated by local, state, and federal law. The chart below reflects Warner Bros. policy as to what can be discharged into each system.  Employees violating the policies listed below will be subject to discipline, up to and including referral to Labor Relations and possibly termination.

SEWER (Sinks, Toilets, Mop Closets)
AllowedProhibited
• Tap or bottled water • Ice • Soft drinks or other beverages • Some food (in garbage disposal only) • Mop water Everything Else – Including: • Paint / brush water • Solid foods • Car or cart wash water / soap • Cleaning supplies, solvents, or other chemicals • Gum, cigarette butts, or other trash.
STORM DRAIN (All open drains on WBSO streets - untreated directly to L.A. River)
AllowedProhibited
RainwaterEverything Else – Including: Tap water (!) • Bottled water • Ice or melted ice runoff • Soft drinks or other beverages • Paint/brush water • Solid foods • Car or cart wash water/soap • Cleaning supplies, solvents, or other chemicals • Gum, cigarette butts, or other trash.
COSTS AND PENALTIES
  • WBSO Fees for Labor and Costs of Clean-Up: Depends on extent of discharge.
  • EPA Clean-Up Costs: Depends on extent of discharge. Could be $100,000 or more.
  • Regional Water Quality Control Board: Fines of up to $10,000 per day per discharge, plus $10 per gallon of material discharged.
  • Criminal Penalties: Fines for the Studio and/or the Production. Criminal charges can be brought against the responsible person(s).
  • Damage to Environment: River, Ocean, Beach, Sewage Treatment Plant.
  • Bad Publicity: For the Studio and the Production.
  • Loss of Discharge Permits and/or Exemptions.
  • Disciplinary Action: Violation of Studio Policy could result in Discipline, up to and including Termination.
Please spread the message: Protect the Sewers and Storm Drains!
  • 4.13 - Additional Storm Drain Policy Guidelines – By Department

The State of California, the Regional Water Quality Control Board and Warner Bros. Studios strictly forbid all employees, clients and tenants from intentionally dumping or allowing chemicals—including those labeled “environmentally friendly” or “biodegradable”—into the storm drain system.

Please review the WBSO storm drain policy guidelines below with your department heads and their crew as applicable. For any questions on wastewater, contact S&EA at (818) 954-2890 or the WB Plumbing at (818) 954-1700.

Craft Services

  • Ice, melted ice, drinking water and all other forms of liquid cannot be allowed to enter the storm drain system. Do not pour any of these liquids (or, in the case of ice, leave it to melt) on the ground in the vicinity of a storm drain catch basin.
  • Regularly check the level of the waste tanks for Craft Service trailers, as well as on-stage or portable sinks, to make sure they do not overflow. Notify your Transportation Department when waste tanks on your trailers need to be emptied.
  • Waste mop water and other forms of residential-type cleaning products must be deposited into mop sinks, toilets, or other locations which drain to the sanitary sewer.

 

Transportation

  • Check the level of liquid in waste tanks on all trailers to make sure they are emptied before they overflow.
  • Do not over-fill fuel tanks on vehicles. When done filling tanks, make sure that the filler cap is replaced before moving the vehicle.
  • Report on-lot spills of fuel, motor oil, hydraulic oil and other vehicular fluids to S&EA at (818) 954-2890. These spills must be cleaned up by a trained and qualified representative of the Hazardous Waste Facility or Fire Department, and the spill debris must be disposed of as hazardous waste.
  • Car washing or detailing activities may not take place except in designated areas where containment is possible.

 

Make-Up & Costume Departments

  • Do not allow water used in cleaning any equipment or materials (such as laundry) to run into the storm drain system. Please have production contact OPS (818-954-6777) if you need assistance with disposal.

 

Props Department

  • Check the level of liquid in waste tanks on all trailers to make sure they are emptied before they overflow. Notify your Transportation Department when waste tanks on your trailers need to be emptied.

 

Greens Department

  • Do not allow water from outdoor plant watering to run into the storm drain system.

 

Special Effects

  • Contact Office & Production Services whenever on-lot water effects are being planned on exterior sets (e.g., rain bars, wet downs, fire hydrant props, etc.) or on stage (e.g., showers, sinks, bathtubs, etc.). Advance coordination with S&EA and WB Plumbing is required to discuss plans for the required water capturing/disposal efforts.

 

Production / Construction – General Waste Disposal

  • Make sure the area surrounding your sound stage(s) is kept free of construction or production related waste. This includes items like cigarette butts, wood, rope, empty plastic cups or bottles, nails, screws, paper, cardboard, candy wrappers, saw dust and metal filings, and other general forms of trash. Have your laborers police these areas to ensure that they are kept clean.
  • 4.14 - Guidelines for Shipping Dangerous Goods

READ THIS PRIOR TO SHIPPING ANYTHING BY AIR

When chemicals or chemical-containing products are shipped by air, they are called “Dangerous Goods.”  Dangerous Goods are regulated by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and these regulations are enforced by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Department of Homeland Security.

Many of the products used by consumers in their households would be considered dangerous goods. The same could be said of many of the products shipped by offices and production companies. Some examples of dangerous goods include household products such as hair spray, glass cleaner, aerosol cans (regardless of content), paints, lubricating oils, lithium batteries, etc.

Shippers of dangerous goods should keep in mind that certain materials, like pressurized cylinders or aerosol cans, could represent a significant risk to an aircraft and its passengers if shipped illegally.  A mishap involving such dangerous goods could impart significant liability to the shipper.

The process by which products or materials are identified, classified, packaged, marked and labeled in accordance with these regulations is rather complicated.  Unless you have been trained to ship dangerous goods, it is NOT recommended that you do so.  Instead of shipping common, readily available products, consider having productions on location instead buy the products locally.

Shipping Dangerous Goods

Before shipping packages, identify the contents of the package and check for possible dangerous goods. If you are given a package to ship, ask for a detailed list of the contents. If you have products or materials that you GA: remove line break think might be dangerous goods, you should contact the mail carrier that you plan to ship the product or material with (i.e., Airborne, FedEx, etc.). They can tell you if it is a “dangerous good” and, for a small fee, most shipping companies can package and label your shipment for you.

Dangerous Goods Packers/Shippers:
DHL – Dangerous Goods: 1-800-225-5345 or http://bit.ly/1tFDo3S

FedEx – Dangerous Goods: 1-800-463-3339 and say “dangerous goods” or http://bit.ly/S4YBrL

  • 4.15 - Unmanned Aerial Vehicles / Unmanned Aerial Camera Platforms / Drones

Employee / Guest-Owned Drones

 

Drones (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) owned by employees or guests of WB are not permitted, and may not be operated on the WB Main Lot or Ranch Lot for purposes of recreation, rehearsing, testing or for actual production work.

 

Production / FAA Authorized Commercial UAV Companies

  • 1.
    Approval for the use of UAVs may be granted after review by WB Office & Production Services department 818-954-6777 and S&EA 818-954-2890
  • 2.
    All Productions intending to use UAV either for an interior or exterior scene must complete the “Warner Bro Studio Facilities Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Notification Form” and submit it to Office & Production Services and S&EA at least three days in advance of any intended use.
  • 3.
    All Productions intending to use a UAV either for an interior or exterior scene must use an FAA Authorized Vendor. The most current list of FAA Authorized Vendors may be found at: https://www.faa.gov/uas/advanced_operations/section_333/authorizations_granted/ *Enter “Motion Picture” in the Filter Exemptions field for a complete listing.
  • 4.
    The S&EA maintains a list of UAV Companies that WB has worked with in the past and can provide guidance in selecting a vendor familiar with WB and MPAA Unmanned Aerial Systems Summary.
  • 5.
    All Productions intending to use a UAV must comply with the “MPAA Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAV) Summary”.
  • 6.
    Both the Warner Bro Studio Operations Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Notification Form and MPAA Unmanned Aerial Systems Summary are contained in this section.
  • 4.16 - WBSO Unmanned Aerial Systems (Uas) Notification Form
  • 4.17 - MPAA Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Exemption Summary

In September 2014, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) granted regulatory exemptions to selected companies to operate Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) on scripted, closed-set, motion picture and television productions under specific, outdoor conditions within the United States.

This summary has been developed to provide guidance for all outdoor UAS operations, including when the UAS is flown as a prop.

  • I.
    REQUIREMENTS PRIOR TO OPERATION
  • All UAS vendor companies must possess a current, FAA- approved UAS Motion Picture and Television Operations Manual (Manual) and must obtain an Air Traffic Organization- issued Certificate of Waiver or Authorization (COA) prior to conducting any UAS operation.
  • FAA regulations require that the UAS vendor company utilize a qualified Pilot in Command (PIC) and a Visual Observer (VO) for each UAS in operation.
  • The PIC must have on set with them at all times all pertinent documentation, which includes, but is not limited to: • the Manual; • the COA; • Plan Of Activities; pilot certificate; and third-class medical certificate. These documents must be made available to both the Production Company and to regulatory agencies upon request.
  • The UAS vendor company must request a Notice to Airman(NOTAM) between 48 and 72 hours prior to UAS operation.
  • The FAA must approve the flight plan and may limit UAS operations near non-towered airports or controlled airspace.
  • Before conducting UAS operations, the PIC must ensure that the radio frequency spectrum used for the operation and control of the UAS complies with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) or other appropriate government-agency requirements and does not conflict with any radio frequencies used by production.
  • Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) may have their own requirements regarding UAS operations.
  • A safety meeting should be conducted with all affected production personnel prior to UAS operations.
  • II.
    OPERATION AND SAFETY
  • The UAS must weigh less than 55 pounds (25 Kg), including energy source(s) and attached equipment.
  • The UAS may not be flown at a ground speed exceeding 50 knots (approximately 57 MPH).
  • Each UAS operation must be completed within 30 minutes flight time or with 25% battery power remaining, whichever occurs first.
  • If the UAS loses communications or its Global Positioning System (GPS) signal, the UAS must return to  a pre- determined location within the security perimeter  and land or be recovered in accordance with the Manual.
  • The UAS must be operated within Visual Line Of Sight (VLOS) of the PIC at all times. This requires the PIC to use human vision unaided by any device other than corrective lenses. The VO may be used to satisfy the VLOS requirement, as long as the PIC always maintains VLOS capability and the VO and PIC can communicate verbally at all times.
  • The UAS cannot be operated by the PIC from any moving device or vehicle.
  • Flights must be operated at an altitude of no more than 400 feet above ground level.
  • The UAS always must remain clear of, and yield the right of way to, all other manned operations and activities (e.g., ultralight vehicles, parachute activities, parasailing activities, and hang gliders).
  • UAS operations may not be conducted during night.
  • Prior to each flight, the PIC must assess the weather conditions and inspect the UAS to ensure that the conditions are safe for UAS operation.  If the inspection reveals a condition that would affect the safe operation of the UAS, the aircraft is prohibited from operating until the weather conditions have improved and/or the necessary maintenance has been performed to allow for a safe flight.
  • The PIC must abort the UAS operation in the event of unpredicted obstacles or emergencies.
  • The UAS vendor company must report to the FAA UAS Integration Office within 24 hours any:
    1) incident,
    2) accident, or
    3) flight operation that transgresses the lateral or vertical boundary of the COA-defined operational area.
  • The UAS vendor company also must report all accidents to the National Transportation Safety Board.
  • Further flight operations may not be conducted until the incident, accident, or boundary transgression is reviewed and authorization to resume operations is provided.
  • III.
    DISTANCE REQUIREMENTS
  • The UAS may not be operated directly over any person, except for authorized and consenting production personnel, who must be essential to the closed-set production operation.
  • The distance between the UAS and authorized and consenting production personnel shall be determined by the Manual.
  • All non-authorized or non-consenting persons (e.g., spectators, observers, general public, news media) are prohibited within 500 feet of the UAS operation area. This distance may be reduced to no less than 200 feet if it would not adversely affect safety and the FAA has approved.
  • 1.
    NOTIFICATION
  • The Production Company must notify all  production personnel of the planned use of UAS so that any objection can be communicated prior to UAS operation.
  • Notification can be accomplished by including a statement like the following on the call sheet:
    “An Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) will be used in close proximity to production personnel and equipment. Any personnel who does not consent to working within the UAS area must notify [please insert the assigned production designee(s)] prior to use of the UAS.”
  • WARNER BROS™ Warner Bros. Ent.