Smoke, Fog, and Lighting Effects

The use of smoke, fog, haze, atmospheric effects, strobes, flashing lights, lasers, and other specialized lighting effects can present health and safety hazards if not properly planned and controlled.

All scenes involving smoke, fog, haze, or specialized lighting effects must receive prior approval from Production Services before filming.

Smoke, Fog, and Haze Effects

Only equipment and atmospheric fluids specifically manufactured for theatrical or motion picture use shall be used.

Whenever atmospheric effects are used:

• Use only the minimum concentration necessary to achieve the desired visual effect.
• Limit exposure time whenever practical.
• Follow the manufacturer’s operating instructions and safety recommendations.
• Never use homemade smoke mixtures or unapproved chemicals.
• Do not use combustion-generated smoke unless specifically approved and properly supervised.

Ventilation

When smoke, fog, or haze is used indoors:

• Provide adequate ventilation before, during, and after filming.
• Periodically ventilate the stage or filming location to maintain acceptable air quality.
• Allow cast, crew, and animals regular breaks away from the affected area.
• Ensure smoke does not accumulate to levels that reduce visibility or create unsafe working conditions.

When filming on location indoors, productions must provide a means of exhausting or ventilating the affected space.

Cast, Crew, and Visitors

Before using smoke or fog effects:

• Notify all cast and crew in advance.
• Clearly identify the planned atmospheric effects on the call sheet.
• Attach the appropriate safety bulletin whenever required.
• Inform anyone with asthma, respiratory conditions, allergies, or other medical sensitivities before exposure.
• Allow individuals with medical concerns to discuss reasonable accommodations with Production Services before filming.

Non-essential personnel should remain outside the affected area whenever practical.

Fire Alarm Systems

Smoke and fog effects may activate smoke detectors or fire alarm systems.

Before filming:

• Coordinate with the building representative or facility manager.
• Obtain any required approvals.
• Follow all applicable fire safety requirements.
• Never disable fire protection systems without proper authorization.

Visibility

Atmospheric effects should never reduce visibility to the point that they interfere with:

• Safe movement of cast or crew.
• Equipment operation.
• Emergency exits.
• Emergency evacuation procedures.

Strobe and Flashing Lighting Effects

Strobe lights, rapid flashing effects, simulated lightning, and other high-intensity lighting effects may present health risks for some individuals.

Whenever these effects are used:

• Notify cast and crew before filming.
• Clearly identify the effects on the call sheet.
• Warn visitors before they enter the filming area.
• Use only the minimum intensity and duration necessary.
• Avoid prolonged exposure whenever possible.

Individuals with photosensitive epilepsy, migraines, vertigo, or other medical conditions that may be triggered by flashing lights should notify Production Services before participating in the production.

Lasers and High-Intensity Lighting

Lasers and high-powered lighting effects require additional precautions.

Never:

• Direct lasers toward people or animals.
• Aim high-powered beams toward aircraft or public roadways.
• Operate laser equipment without qualified supervision and any required approvals.

After Filming

After atmospheric effects are complete:

• Fully ventilate the space before normal occupancy resumes.
• Confirm that visibility has returned to safe levels.
• Ensure all equipment has cooled before storage.
• Remove any residue that may create slipping hazards.