Special Effects

Artificially Created Atmospheric Fog & Haze

Specific guidelines regarding the use of artificial fog and haze are presented in Industry-Wide Labor-Management Safety Bulletin #10 and 10A.

The bulletin lists products that can be used to create atmospheric effects as well as an addendum that indicates the specific amount or level of concentration (Permissible Exposure Limits or PEL’s) of fog/haze which are generally allowed. The primary impact to production is that it puts the onus on the production to demonstrate that the airborne levels of fog/haze are not exceeding these Permissible Exposure Limits.

Practically, this will typically mean conducting air monitoring to determine airborne concentrations whenever SIGNIFICANT amounts of theatrical smokes and fogs are used (such as very heavy fog or simulated smoke from a fire). Once enough data has been collected and baseline levels established, the need for monitoring should decrease.

Contact your Production Safety Specialist with any questions or to assist with contacting vendors (qualified third-party companies with the proper equipment) who can conduct air monitoring.

Georgia Specific Rules

The Georgia Department of Labor has developed specific regulations in regards to minors and the use of atmospheric fog, haze and smoke within the entertainment industry. The regulations do not allow minors to work in atmospheric smoke, haze, fog, etc. (“Atmospheric Smoke”), without first obtaining the written consent of the representative of the minor. In addition, exposure limitations have been published based on age of the minor.

The entire regulation can be found here: Georgia DOL Website

Please review the information in detail and contact your production safety representative with any questions.

Dust/Dirt Materials for Creating Photographic Dust Effects

Materials used to create dust and photographic dust effects should be carefully chosen due to the health and explosion characteristics of some materials. An Industry-Wide Labor-Management Safety and Health Awareness Sheet on Photographic Dust Effects is available from CSATF.

“Fuller’s Earth” is the most common mineral product used for photographic dust effects in the film industry. Unfortunately the ingredients vary widely from different suppliers and may present health issues including eye,   respiratory and skin irritation. Indoor versus outdoor use of a product can also change exposure.

Organic products such as wheat and rice flour, corn starch and crushed nutshells can also be used to create dust; however, they also present challenges for individuals with food allergies and their dusts can easily ignite and flash over if an ignition source is present.

Pyrotechnics

Only licensed and qualified technicians are allowed to perform pyrotechnic effects. In California, there are three types of licenses for pyrotechnic operators issued by the state Fire Marshal’s office: first, second, and third class. The first class (or “one card”) has the fewest restrictions, while the second and third class licenses are more limited.

If you plan to use these materials, contact your Studio Production Safety Specialist for guidance.