Health and Safety in Photography

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: