Certification and Licensing for Handling Firearms on Movie Sets

When it comes to the handling of firearms on movie sets, the process is rigorous and regulated to ensure safety. This article explores the stringent certification and licensing requirements for personnel involved in firearm handling in film productions. We will delve into the specific roles, the training needed, and the safety protocols in place.

Understanding the Role of Prop Masters

In the world of film and television, prop masters play a crucial role in managing the equipment used in productions. However, not all prop masters can handle firearms. In some regions, such as California, there are specific responsibilities and certifications required to ensure the safe handling of firearms.

Firearm Certification and Licensing

Local 44, a veteran prop master, is responsible for the distribution and education of actors using firearms on set. This individual holds a specific license or permit granted by a local authority, such as a weapons armorer's license. The weapons armorer, who holds a more comprehensive license, oversees Local 44 and a special permit called the Entertainment Firearms Permit (EFP).

Armorers and Their Responsibilities

An armorer is a highly trained individual responsible for the safe handling and maintenance of firearms on set. To become an armorer, one must have a SPOTLESS criminal record and possess a welded class 5 mobile safe in their vehicle to store the firearms. Due to the high standards required, there are only a few licensed armorers in California, but they can be contracted from other states as needed.

Local 44's Standard Practices

Local 44 follows strict guidelines for handling firearms, requiring at least 18 hours of safety training. Regular updates are necessary due to new regulations, and these must be documented to ensure compliance. Failure to meet these requirements can result in unauthorized work and potential legal repercussions.

Incidents and Their Impact

Two significant incidents have shaped the current guidelines for firearm handling on movie sets:

Jon Erik Hexum: In the 1970s and 1980s, actors would often carry loaded guns with blanks. A tragic incident involving Jon Erik Hexum led to a significant change. Hexum brought a gun to his temple and unintentionally fired it, killing himself. This event resulted in actors only being given guns with the safety on, and safety protocols were strengthened. Brandon Lee: After the 1982 film 'The Crow', another tragedy occurred. Brandon Lee, during a scene, was struck by a piece of metal from the barrel of a .357, not a bullet. This highlighted the importance of proper firearm cleaning, even if they are only fired once.

These incidents underscore the critical need for strict regulations and safety measures. The current practices are designed to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.

Regulations and Compliance

Thanks to these incidents, the regulations for handling firearms on set in the film industry are among the strictest in the business. It is mandatory to clean every weapon after it has been fired, even if it was only fired once. This is to prevent any potentially harmful projectiles from being released back into the set.

Conclusion

The handling of firearms on movie sets is a highly regulated and specialized field. The safety of cast and crew is paramount, as evidenced by the stringent measures in place. By understanding and adhering to these guidelines, the film industry can continue to produce safe and impactful productions.