On-Set Safety Guide for Non-Union Actors
Non-union actors don't have a union rep watching their back on set. That means you need to know your rights, recognize when conditions are unsafe, and understand what's normal versus what's exploitative.
Updated March 2026. General guidance only — workplace safety laws vary by state.
Working Hours & Rest Periods
Industry standard is a 12-hour turnaround between wrap and next call time
After 12 hours on set, you should be getting overtime — even on non-union shoots
If a production says 'as needed' for hours with no cap, that's a yellow flag
Night shoots that wrap past 2 AM and call you back at 7 AM violate basic rest standards
Keep your own time log — don't rely on the production's count
Meal Breaks & Craft Services
Standard: first meal within 6 hours of call time, second meal within 6 hours after first
If a production says 'meals provided' but doesn't specify when, ask before day-of
'Grace period' or 'meal penalty' language means the production owes you extra if they miss the window
Bring your own food as backup — 'craft services' on low-budget shoots can mean chips and water
Allergies and dietary needs should be communicated during booking, not on set
Intimacy & Sensitive Scenes
An intimacy coordinator should be present for any scene involving nudity, simulated sex, or physical intimacy
You have the right to know exactly what a scene involves before arriving on set
Last-minute changes to intimate scenes ('we added a kiss') require your explicit consent
'Nudity may be required' in a contract without specifics is a red flag — ask for a detailed rider
No one should touch you without consent, including during wardrobe, makeup, or blocking
Stunts & Physical Safety
Any physical action beyond normal movement should have a stunt coordinator present
You are not required to do your own stunts unless specifically contracted (and compensated)
Firearms on set — even props — require a licensed armorer and a safety briefing
If you feel unsafe at any point, you have the right to stop and ask questions
Productions that pressure you to 'just do it' when you express safety concerns are the problem, not you
Transportation & Locations
If the location is remote, the production should provide transportation or reimburse travel
You should know the exact filming location at least 24 hours before call time
'Location TBD' on the day of the shoot is a red flag — legitimate productions plan ahead
Check that the location has basic facilities: restrooms, shelter from weather, and a designated crew area
If driving yourself, ask about parking — 'street parking' in a dense urban area can cost you hours and money
When Conditions Are Unsafe
Document everything — times, conditions, conversations, photos if appropriate
Speak up on set to the AD or production manager, not just other actors
If the issue isn't resolved, you can leave — your safety is more important than any gig
Report unsafe conditions: OSHA handles workplace safety complaints regardless of union status
Share your experience anonymously on StageBlind so other actors know what to expect
Headed to set? Take the checklist with you.
StageBlind Editorial — based on industry standards, OSHA guidelines, and actor-reported experiences.