Ensuring Safety for Stunt Performers

January 16, 2023

When you’re watching a movie, the stunts that unfold onscreen look effortless. In reality, these shots require extensive planning, supervision, and safety protocols. Even with all these precautions in place, stunts can sometimes go awry and result in injuries to stunt performers and other members of the cast and crew. Production companies must invest in entertainment insurance to minimize the liability of such accidents. If you’re an insurer covering these insureds, you should know how to keep stunt performers safe at work — and you can also pass the tips along to your clients.

Get the Right Insurance Coverage

The right insurance is the best defense against liabilities and losses that could occur after a stunt performance mishap — and, unfortunately, these mishaps aren’t uncommon. Stunt performers frequently sustain injuries on the job. One study even hypothesized that stunt performers might face an increased risk of chronic traumatic encephalopathy due to recurring head injuries. Entertainment coverage that includes stunt performers can offset some of the risks that these injuries incur. Furthermore, if there are medical expenses following an accident, the policy may be able to cover some of the costs.

Hire an Experienced Stunt Coordinator

Production companies should prepare for the possibility of risk, but they should also make every effort to decrease risk on set. The more efficient way to do this is to hire an experienced stunt coordinator who can design the performance in an action sequence, ensure that stunt performers receive proper training, and maintain a safe environment for the stunt to take place in. All these factors can substantially reduce the risk of a stunt mishap, reducing the likelihood of injuries and liabilities.

Use the Correct Safety Equipment

One of the most important responsibilities of a stunt coordinator is ensuring that performers have access to the proper safety equipment. This equipment will vary based on the type of stunt that a scene calls for. Still, some of the most common examples include body pads to cushion stunt professionals performing a fall, trampolines for performers to fall on, and fireproof attire for stunts involving pyrotechnics. These accessories can keep performers safe even when they are performing dangerous acts.

Customize an Insurance Policy for Your Clients

If your clients commonly coordinate stunts on set, you need to offer them an insurance policy that covers these liabilities. Production companies can benefit from the coverage of a Take1 Insurance policy, but simply offering coverage isn’t enough. You need to partner with your insureds to help them mitigate the risk that stunt performers face. Start by providing this guide and helping them customize an insurance policy that includes stunt-related risks. ◼