Physical Effects
Planning Physical Effects

Physical Effects

Planning Physical Effects

Risk Assessment & Key Hazards

Smoke and Smoke Effects

Snow Effects

Water-As a Prop or an Effect

Acceptance Criteria for Physical Effects Contractors

Acceptance Criteria for Smoke Contractors

Common Questions

Key Points

Physical effects is one of three main special effects disciplines recognised by the Joint Industry Grading Scheme, alongside pyrotechnic and visual (optical) effects.

Physical effects involve work such as:

Atmospheric or weather effects.
Mechanical effects, such as modifications to stunt vehicles etc.
Model and miniature effects.
Rigging, water effects and use of equipment such as air mortars.

These activities create many varied risks and rely on close co-operation with other production departments such as, the stunt co-ordinator, production designer, riggers etc. Stunt and mechanical effects engineering is highly specialised and you must make sure that contractors are competent. To assist, a list of vetted contractors has been prepared, although it is not mandatory.

Design and Planning

Effects work must be planned and executed in such a way that risks to the safety of staff, artistes and the public are kept under proper control.

The person in charge of the Physical Effects is responsible for ensuring all relevant regulations are complied with and that industry best practice is observed. The person in charge must ensure adequate liaison with other production departments is conducted and exercise control over safety aspects of all elements of the effects. Also, that all those engaged on effects work are competent and that equipment or materials used are supplied to the required specification. The Joint Industry Grading Scheme (see Related Links) grades individuals based on their physical effects experience.

All work equipment used must show evidence of proper maintenance, to demonstrate that it is in an efficient state and in good working order.

There should be supporting information from the provider of the work equipment, confirming it has been designed, constructed, examined and tested as necessary. For example; electrical equipment should have a dated test label attached.