Association News

IPO NOTICE ON COVID-19

The Independent Producers Organisation on 18 March 2020 disseminated an notice from the Executive Committee on the COVID-19 pandemic and how the organisation will be assisting members and the industry at large. “The IPO ExCo has decided to recommend that all our members suspend their ongoing production or delay any imminent production, and inform and consult with their lawyers, their channel CES and Business Affairs as to the best way of implementing their decision. Action is required TODAY to reduce the exponential risk in virus spread,” the statement said. The ExCo will be writing an urgent memorandum to all the broadcasters, as well as the department of health and the presidency to outline the specific challenges faced by our industry and to call for an urgent all industry response. They are also calling for urgent meetings – telephonic or video conference – with all stakeholders including SABC, eTV, Multichoice, other broadcasters and platforms, as well as NFVF, DTI, IDC, DAC, etc. to

coordinate their actions. They will also be reaching out to the relevant Minister in the National Command Council and ask for urgent and meaningful support measures, and are in the process of reviewing terms of trade, standard commissioning and coproduction agreements. To read the full statement or to get in touch, visit www.ipo.org.za or email ipoexco@ipo.org.za.

CPA CALLS FOR RELAXATION OF INDUSTRY AGREEMENTS

The Commercial Producers Association circulated the following request to crew in mid-March in the wake of the COVID-19 restrictions. “Government restrictions have been implemented far more quickly than we anticipated however this is a good thing as these measures are clearly needed,” the statement said. “As you know, some jobs have already been cancelled while others have been postponed. While some companies have indicated that

they will be scaling back on all work, most CPA members want to continue working where possible. They will do this in line with Government recommendations and will provide the necessary facilities on set to limit the spread of the virus.” Crew members who wish to continue working have been asked to report to the production company booking them if they have recently travelled to any high-risk countries, or if they have been in touch with any person who has tested positive for the virus. “It is vitally important that

each person take personal responsibility for ensuring that they do not spread Covid-19 to others on set or in wider society,” CPA said, adding that each production company would individually advise on client cancellations or postponement policy. To read the full statement on what crew can expect particularly from very recent cancellations, and accompanying fees and waivers, visit www.cpasa.tv.

SAGA LAUNCHES COVID-19 PROTOCOL FOR ACTORS

The South African Guild of Actors has created a checklist for productions still shooting to assist Actors in preventing the spread of COVID-19. For actors on productions still shooting SAGA recommends: • Hand washing stations and hand sanitisers made available • Make-up and hair departments need to wear masks • Deep cleaning/disinfecting of brushes, etc. • Use sponges that can be washed and put in boiling water • No communal brushes • Bring your own makeup • Bring our own plastic and nylon nailbrush for nail hygiene in bathrooms if you are risk • Sanitary use of props They also recommend that producers implement the following: • Essential crew only during takes • Rest and holding spaces to allow for social distancing • Avoid crowded communal areas • Additional sanitary precautions at craft stations and meal times

The SAGA team has also provided tips on general procedures at home and at work, general protocol for maintaining sanitary measures, and restroom protocol. To read the full protocol, visit www.saguildofactors.co.za.