Health
& Safety
Risk Assessments
There
are many health and safety considerations to take into place when using
photographic equipment and undertaking a photo shoot.
Before
any photo shoot a risk assessment should be taken to identify health or safety
concerns so that correct action can be taken to eliminate any risks to make it
safe for the models and photographer.
Risks
Assessments should be undertaken in accordance to the Health & Safety
executive guidelines, available at www.hse.gov.uk
A
summary of the considerations are:
Equipment
Basic
equipment used like the camera and any add-on equipment such as a flash or a
tripod. The camera itself is a safe piece of equipment when used correctly.
When
using the camera and added equipment the main considerations are:
Flash unit - When adding a flash it is
advisable to not look directly at the flash when activated at close range as
this can damage the eye. In addition, if the flash unit requires repair, it is
advisable to seek professional assistance. Before any pictures it is a good
idea to tell the model not to look directly at the light.
Tripod - If the camera is attached to
a tripod, it should be mounted in a safe way and it should be clear where the
legs of the tripod are to avoid trips by the photographer or another person. To
make sure the tripod is safe make sure the camera is secure on the tripod so it
doesn’t fall off and break the camera, also make sure the three legs of the
tripod are balanced so it doesn’t fall over.
Computer
Use - When
editing the images on the computer, display screen equipment guidance should be
adhered to reduce eye strain, postural problems. The computer should be set up
on a desk, allowing the screen to be at a height level with the eye, the user
should sit in a chair offering support and the seating posture should not be
slouched as this strains the neck, shoulders and back which can cause long-term
problems. The screen should be clean and an appropriate distance from the eye.
The time working on the computer should be limited to an hour at a time with
have regular breaks taken.
Studio
When
photographing in a studio, the main considerations are:
Placement
of the lights and stands – The lights and stands should be placed in a safe
location, where they are obvious to all.
Cables
working correctly – Prior to use, the cables should be checked to
ensure no loose connections. In addition the use of circuit breakers is
advisable to reduce risk.
Placement
of power cables and wires – Ideally the power cables should always be plugged
into a wall socket at the back of the studio so the clients do not have to walk
over the cables when they enter the studio. If cables are trailing, they should
be taped to the floor so no one can trip over them and hurt themselves.
Outdoor
When
photographing outdoor the main considerations are:
Location – The location for the
photographer and clients should be safe. It is advisable the photographer makes
a visit prior to the shoot to identify risks/ hazards and if appropriate. If
they find out that it the selected location is inappropriate to then find
somewhere else that will be safer for both the photographer and the models.
Example Risk Assessment can be found below:
