Conditions on set where Halyna Hutchins was shot sickeningly familiar to Aussie crews

In the wake of Hutchins’ death, there are calls for ammunition to be banned from all film production.

The safe use of firearms on set is dependent on the strict guidance of a trusted theatrical armourer operating in line with the industry’s safety protocols.

After the Ofner tragedy, the MEAA and Screen Producers Australia reviewed Australian protocols and updated them earlier this year.

But no protocols can keep people safe in an environment where an employer is willing to cut corners.

The reports coming from the production of Rust where Hutchins was shot are sickeningly familiar to screen workers in Australia.

Kelly Wood is a director with the Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance, the union representing screen crew in Australia