Coronavirus: Government issues SOP for resuming media production, stresses on minimum physical contact

The government has also advised the use of Arogya setu app in the SOP released for the entertainment industry.

New Delhi: Information and Broadcasting minister Prakash Javadekar on Sunday (August 23) announced the release of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for resuming shooting of films and TV programmes.

These SOPs have been finalised after consulting the health and home ministries, he said.

Shooting of films and TV serials can be started using these SOPs issued in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the minister said.

Thermal screening at entry points, mandatory use of face covers/masks and physical distancing of six feet are among the new rules people working in the media production industry will have to adhere to as they resume work amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Sharing details of the SOPs, Javadekar said barring those who are in front of cameras all others will have to wear masks.

"The general principles behind the SOP will help create a safe working environment for cast and crew in the industry, Union Information and Broadcasting Prakash Javadekar said as he released the guidelines.

These SOPs have been finalised after consulting the health and home ministries, he said.

The SOP ensures adequate distancing at shoot locations and other work places and contains measures including proper sanitization, crowd management and provision for protective equipment among others. Barring those who are in front of cameras all others will have to wear masks.

"'Contact Minimisation' is at the core of the SOP. This will be ensured by minimal physical contact and sharing of props, PPEs for hair stylists and make-up artists among others," he added.

He hoped that the release of the SOPs will not only lead to resumption of shooting of films and TV serials, but also generate employment.

Shooting for films and TV serials was suspended following the outbreak of the novel coronavirus.