Liability Waivers in the Pandemic: A Producer’s Guide Part 2

In the first segment of this two-part series, we talked about liability for production companies, especially in the pandemic. We also discussed what would make a good waiver and how to make it honorable legally. If you have not read that yet, make sure to read it first before you proceed.

In this second part, we will talk about alternative solutions to having a waiver form signed. These options are given in the situation where you believe having a waiver form may not be the best option for your company. To learn more about these alternative solutions, continue reading below:

Alternative Solutions

While having a waiver form seems to be the most viable option, this is not the same case for every production company and its employees. Some companies may want to consider other options that are present. There are many options, such as these mentioned below:

Acknowledgment Form

As its name suggests, an acknowledgment form states that the employee signing acknowledges the risks of going back to work. They also recognize that the production company is doing everything in its power to mitigate the risks of COVID-19 on set.

Also Read: Liability Waivers in the Pandemic 1

The acknowledgment form will release the production company from liability in case an infection happens on set. It may also include a clause that specifies that factors out of the company’s control cannot be held against them.

However, at the same time, acknowledgment forms may require the company to file for their workers’ compensation. Yet, it must also be stated in the acknowledgment form that there is no guarantee that this will be approved and that it is out of the company’s control.

This form is useful because it shows that the production company is doing something to help the employees in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic. It prevents the company from being negligent to its workers. However, it also prevents the company from being held completely liable.

Extensive Precautionary Measures

Having extensive precautionary measures in place may actually get rid of the need for a waiver. Waivers of liability are optional but good to have for protection. But if your production company is taking extra care, then it may not be a worry.

On set, it is advisable to ensure that your workers are being sanitary by bringing alcohol or hand sanitizers. At the same time, you can set up sanitary washing stations around for people to use.

It is also recommended that you have your set sanitized every end of the day and before use the following day. This will ensure that your place of work is also kept clean and the spread of bacteria is prevented.

You may also have all your employees wear masks except for the stars of your production. Additionally, you can lessen the number of people on set and have present only those who are necessary. This will prevent close contact and diminish the risk of any being infected present on set.

Also Read: 5 Innovative Ways to Make Money From Your Podcasts

The Bottom Line

At the end of the day, waivers of liability are essential, but you will still rely on your preventive measures. The best option is to ensure that the production company is taking care of the sanitation on set and of the employees. This will prevent any issues moving forward. However, if there is a need for waivers, consider what we have discussed in this two-part article. It is important to take care during your production and prioritize everyone’s safety.

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