"Minimum Physical Contact": Government SOPs For Resuming Media Production

Thermal screening at entry points, manadatory use of face covers/masks and physical distancing of six feet are among the new rules people working in the media production industry will have to adhere to as they resume work amid the coronavirus pandemic. The new rules are part of the SOP issued by the government today.

"The general principles behind the SOP will help create a safe working environment for cast and crew in the industry, Union Informataion and Broadcasting Prakash Javadekar said as he released the guidelines.

These SOPs have been finalised after consulting the health and home ministries, he said.

The SOP ensures adequate distancing at shoot locations and other work places and contains measures including proper sanitization, crowd management and provision for protective equipment among others. Barring those who are in front of cameras all others will have to wear masks.

"'Contact Minimisation' is at the core of the SOP. This will be ensured by minimal physical contact and sharing of props, PPEs for hair stylists and make-up artists among others," he added.

The government has also advised the use of Arogya setu app in the SOP released for the entertainment industry.

Stressing that the film and television industry is an important part of the economy, Mr Javadekar said that all states will implement these SOPs.

Shooting for films and TV serials was suspended in March following the outbreak of the novel coronavirus, which has affected over 30 lakh people in the country.

With theatres closed, shootings on hold and the release of major films pushed indefinitely, Bollywood, according to media reports, has lost over Rs 3,000 crore during the period.