Anthony Hardwick
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Posts posted by Anthony Hardwick
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Here's my quick take on the Safety Passport Classes in response to David Allen Grove's question about it in another thread, and for any IA members who have yet to take theirs.
What is it?
As I understand it, all union members of the entertainment industry in the USA are required to take training courses regarding various aspects of safety in the industry. Each local (and category within that local) has specific courses that must be taken by a given deadline, or else the employee will not be eligible to work on productions after that date. If you are a union member and have not satisfied these course requirements before the deadline for your local, you will not be able to work on pretty much any Studio picture or Television series. By Studio, I mean the biggies and their subsidiaries (Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros., Disney/Buena Vista, etc...).
For Camera Department people (IATSE Local 600), the deadline is December 31, 2004. It's coming up quickly.
DP's have to take 4 courses:
"A" General Safety Training/Injury & Illness Prevention Program
"I" Respiratory Protection
"G" Scaffold Use
"P" Hazard Communication
Camera Assistants, Camera Operators and Digital Imaging Technicians must take 7 courses (the same 4 courses that DP's must take as well as the following three):
"B" Aerial Lift/Scissor Lift
"D" General Fall Protection
"K" Noise Exposure
The courses range in length from 1 hour for the "A" course to 4 hours for the "B" course, with the rest being 2 hours in length. The courses can be completed in less time and I found they often are depending on how many participants are in a given class (fewer = faster), and also who the instructor is ;)
For example, one scheduled two hour course that I took, the "I" course, took about 1/2 hour from start to finish.
Each course has a written test which is usually multiple choice, and one course that I took, the "B" Aerial Lift/Scissors Lift course also had a practical session in which each participant learns the basics of operating both a scissor lift and an aerial lift.
The good news...
You do get paid a stipend of $15.00/hour of classes that you are required to take. This means that you will NOT get paid (nor will you get official credit for) any classes that you elect to take that are not required for your category. The stipend is not considered salary, so if you are collecting unemployment while taking the courses, it will not affect this, and you can continue to collect unemployment. You also will get paid the stipend for the length of time your class is scheduled for and not the actual elapsed time the class took. In other words, I will get $30.00 for the 2 hour scheduled "I" class mentioned above that only took 1/2 hour to complete, instead of only $7.50.
After taking your courses, you will get a nifty little "Passport" that looks very similar to a national passport (only smaller) complete with a picture, and official stamps for the courses you have completed. You will be rewuired to carry this with you on shoots after the deadline for your local (in our case the deadline is December 31, 2004). The courses that we are required to take as local 600 members have no expiration as of now, and no re-certification is planned at this time for any of our required courses. This means that once you've completed the required courses, you are good to go forever... or at least until they change their minds about re-certification, or add another requirement, etc.
Here's where things get a little strange though...
If you are a DP in category, but you ALSO work as a Camera Operator, you have a classic union "Catch-22" on your hands:
You will only get paid for the 4 classes you are required to take under the DP category, and more importantly, you will only get official CREDIT for those four classes too. So does this mean that technically you will not be allowed to work as an operator on a Studio picture or TV series after this coming New Year? You betcha! Isn't that great?
I hear you asking, "But what if I take those additional classes that Camera Operators are required to take (B,D & K)? I don't care about the stipend, I just want the credit so I can continue working on Studio projects?? Won't I be able to at least get the stamps in my passport so I can do that??
The simple answer is NO. Tough Titties. I was told that my union has determined what classes I need to take based on my category, and if I have a problem with that, I should go talk to them about it.
In a nutshell, I was able to resolve my own particular need to get the credit for the additional courses through a loop hole involving a whole other set of mistakes (not mine) involving my roster eligibility status. That is another boring story that I will spare you from having to read. For any other DP's out there who share the same dilemma, all I can say is good luck. You should try to figure out how to get this resolved BEFORE you take the courses. Otherwise, you risk most likely having to repeat some courses you've already taken in order to get the credit (stamp). To resolve this paradox or Koan, you'll have to talk to someone from the local.
This next part is strictly my own opinion, and in no way does it reflect anyone else's opinion or opinions (although I heard plenty of similar sentiments from fellow participants in these safety classes).
My feeling is that the true catalyst behind this training program is the Studio's (collectively speaking) attempt to reduce their own liability in the event of accidents and injuries and/or death. By requiring these safety courses, they have one more level of insulation from responsibility in the event of an accident or injury. This feeling I get stems from the way in which these classes are structured, and the way that the "tests" are administered. For one thing, the seemingly arbitrary choices behind why certain courses are not required for DP's as opposed to AC's and Camera Op's simply doesn't make sense. I understand that DP's find themselves in fewer potentially hazardous situations than the average Camera Operator or AC, but explain this one to me then...
The "K" class, or Noise Exposure class addresses a hazard that we all have to deal with. DP's are subjected to pretty much exactly the same working noise conditions as AC's and Camera Operators, so why aren't DP's required to take that course? Is it because DP's as a whole don't want to be bothered with taking these courses in the first place, and so the number of courses required for them has been reduced as much as possible? I think that's a likely scenario. None of us likes to use our days off taking mandatory safety classes, but DP's probably have more power within our union than other categories for the most part. Shooting on location in a noisy factory or on an airport tarmac for instance will damage a DP's unprotected ears just as quickly and surely as it will any other crew member's.
As for the structure of the courses, for the most part, it appears as if they have been designed to get the participants in and out as quickly as possible and to have them all pass the "test" in the process. Most of the classes I took were taught in such a manner where the instructor literally gives the answers to various questions prior to giving the test. They would actually say things like... "pay attention, because this next point I'm about to make will be a question on the test."
Then, after taking the so called "test," but prior to handing them in, the teacher reads the questions out loud along with the correct answers. You are then supposed to correct your own test, and initial any changes you made to incorrect answers. The thing is, there is no reason why you couldn't just sit there and not answer anything until the end when the questions and answers are given out, and THEN cirlce the correct answer. This could easily have been done, and I suspect that some poeple probably do just that. If it weren't for the fact that the tests were so damn easy and mostly common sense oriented (with some notable exceptions), I would have been tempted to do so too.
In any case, after this rant, I will say that as a result of taking these courses, and despite my complaints about the structure of the courses, I did learn quite a few things about safety, and that is always a good thing... even if that wasn't the primary interest or goal of the Studios that mandated this training in the first place.
Also, they at least give a better stipend than the Los Angeles Court system does for jury duty. I spent five days serving out my jury duty (one day in selection and 4 on a trial), and got a whopping $60.00 for my time and effort.
For completing the 7 Saftey Pass Courses I had to take (15 scheduled hours), I will be paid $225.00. That at least covers a few rounds of beers!
David, in answer to one of your questions, no, I haven't been paid yet. The pay should come within a few weeks, and the Passport itself will take 8-9 weeks due to a backlog. There are a lot of people in other locals trying to get their courses done before their deadlines (some local's deadlines are in June, and some have already passed).
For more information about these courses check out this site:
http://www.csatf.org/safety.shtml
The standard disclaimer about this post holds true... if I've made any mistakes in the info presented, well that's too bad... I believe it all to be correct at the time of writing anyway, so if there are any mistakes, I apologize for them. Also, your experience and mileage may vary ;)
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Fred,
I'm sorry, but you owe me a beer for that ahhh... "witicism." ;)
Anthony
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Michael,
Since there is a meeting planned to coincide with Cinegear this year (mid-June), the request from David Grove and Dan Kneece was to try for mid-May. Initially it looked like Colin wasn't going to be able to do it on the 15th, so the following week was tentatively scheduled. Now it looks possible (though not certain yet) that the 15th will be okay.
In any case, due to the fact that Colin's schedule is the primary criterium, and the second is trying to space it approximately 1 month apart from the mid-June Cinegear planned gathering, I think it'll have to be either May 15th or May 22nd as per Colin's schedule.
The other factor is that the longer we postpone it, the greater the chance of a job booking for Colin coming down the pike to interfere with that date.
I'm sorry for such a long explaination. We'll know in a couple of days what the exact date will be. I'm also sorry for the uncertainty at this point. Finally, I am sorry if you or anyone else isn't able to make it due to conflicts. It's inevitable that some folks won't be able to make it... I know I've missed plenty of them due to work conflicts.
Anthony
PS - As an aside... I just finished my last Safetly Passport class this evening! Glad to get it over with.
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Fred,
Thanks for the link!
That was a great albeit short article and slide show/audio clip.
Garret is the man.
So what exactly is the "walking device??"
I assume that circular thing attached to his shoe/lower leg was it... I'm definitely curious.
Has anyone seen it or heard about it?
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A quick update on the May BBQ for the Steadicam Guild LA to be held at Colin's Hudson's house.
The shoot he is going out of town for might push the week he is to go shoot to one week later. Right now it could go either way. If his shoot gets pushed, the BBQ will be held one week earlier:
Saturday, May 15th 4PM til ?
As soon as he knows, I'll be posting the definitive date... sorry for the potential change... but we all know how it is...
Keep checking back here...
Anthony
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Jeremy,
Definitely keep us (Ultimate owners) updated on the Chrosziel Tilt plate and whatever adaptations you guys are working out. I'm sure I'm not the only one interested in it...
Thanks,
Anthony
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No problem David...
I'll take on the organization for this one. Send the RSVP's my way folks...
Thanks!
Anthony
PS - If anyone thinks they'll bring any food items (either prepared foods or raw for the grill), please let me know when you RSVP. We'll probably get a bunch of burgers, dawgs and maybe some carne asada with some fixins from a great place I know, but any additional goodies people want to bring would be very welcome.
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Okay, just got off the phone with Colin, and he said that it would have to be Saturday the 22nd of May, since he'll be out of town until May 17th. So if that's agreeable, then that's the date.
He suggested starting around 4:00 PM or 5:00 PM and going until....
More exact details such as his address, directions, etc. to follow a bit closer to the event.
As folks get an idea of whether or not they will be attending and how many people will be in their party, it would be great if we can get a sort of RSVP thing going so as to plan for enough beverages and food.
Since I seem to be the "middle man" for the planning of this event, you may email me through this forum, and I'll keep track of the number of people planning to attend. That way, I'll also be able to send each person an email closer to the day with the pertinent details.
David, if you would prefer to do the dirty work of keeping track of how many people, etc., I would be more than happy :) to turn it over to you ;)
Just let me know how you want to handle it.
It should be a fun one! I hope everyone who's in town and not working that day (or otherwise engaged) is able to make it.
Anthony
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Colin Hudson and I were taking some of our Passport Safety Training classes yesterday, and he asked me to post (on his behalf) an invitation to host the next Steadicam Guild gathering at his house for a BBQ. He's got a great house with a nice spacious backyard and deck.
We didn't discuss the nitty gritty details, but perhaps people could bring some beer or wine or other refreshments, and those who wish to contribute towards the BBQ foods are welcome to.
This could be a nice change from the commercial establishment locations now that the weather is getting so nice.
He lives very close to the junction of the I-405 & the I-10, so it's pretty convenient to get to from most parts of town.
David & Dan, what do you think? We just need to settle on a date if you guys (and the majority of everyone else) like the idea.
Colin didn't post this himself because he is without an internet connection for the moment.
Anthony
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Thanks Mitch!
I hadn't heard of that system before... I'll look into it. I appreciate your reply to my question and providing an answer.
Anthony
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Jeff,
What cine style lenses are you talking about? I'm not aware of any for this camera. It has a fixed "leica" lens on it, and aside from using a wide angle adapter, I don't think there's any way to alter this. Are you sure you're not thinking of a different camera?
I did a google search and didn't find anything.
If there is something I'm unaware of, please let me know.
Thanks!
Anthony
Nick,
As others have said, you can use a practice cage, or just a slab of steel or other suitably weighted metal. There is a focus geared ring that you can get that pressure fits on to the lens that will allow you to use a focus motor. There is also a chart that you can download and printout to give you the conversions for distance in feet to the electronic scale used in this model. If you are careful, and set your limits when calibrating your Focus range for your FIZ or Bartech, the focus range will be relatively accurate and repeatable.
Anthony
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Yeah,
I wasn't thinking so much for monitoring flaming and out of hand stuff so much as dealing with multiple posts and also relocating posts that are in the wrong topic. Some other forums that I visit do this, and when a topic has been moved to a more appropriate place, it makes easier for the folks interested in that topic to find the relevant posts.
It really doesn't matter to me, it was just an idea. Whatever the masses and the powers that be want. is fine by me.
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I'm talking about a couple of responsible Moderators who will do very little most of the time, but will occasionally clean up the forum by deleting redundant (as in exactly duplicated) post either when posted on multiple sections, or twice in the same thread. You know what I'm talking about. I'm not suggesting a fascist type of Policing element.
What do you think?
The Moderators could be chosen by Tim Tyler, David Grove and Dan Kneece, or perhaps by democratic vote - no jokes about what polling devices we should use ;)
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Jim,
Yes, congratulations! A milestone indeed. Somewhere in the next 500 I'm sure I'll become a customer too. For your great work and great service you deserve the success.
Cheers,
Anthony
PS - CP (Chris Paul not Cinema Products), what exactly is that avatar of yours? It looks like a happy pill of some sort :P Hope you are well my friend. Looking forward to getting together for a beer in NYC in a few weeks.
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The PRO arm doesn?t has washers in the socket block joint, they are only located in the ellbow.
That's what happens when you try to rely on memory. I stand corrected, but I did at least say "(If I recall correctly)."
AHA! I just looked at your picture again, Benjamin, and I see where my mistake was. I was remembering the hinge or pivot point directly connected to the titanium socket block part, not the aluminum piece attached to that. That's the part with washers (at least t looks that way) that I was thinking of.
In any case, I'm still curious about the flex question.
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Benjamin,
I do (and did) understand that they are the same diameter, and of course I know that it is not in addition to the regular bolt/pin. However, the Pro arm bolt is set up with a series of washers (if I recall correctly) and the spacing tolerances at the top and bottom of the bolt (or pin if you prefer) seemed to be tighter and have less vertical play than on a MS Iso-Elastic arm with the A/C pin. Again, this is from memory with regard to the Pro Arm, as I have not gotten mine yet. Hopefully soon though :)
Maybe that extra play in the vertical axis doesn't make any difference, but it seemed like it would to me. This is all academic at the moment for me since I have never actually tried it. I'll have to try it when I get my Pro Arm, and see.
Have you (or anyone else here) actually done a side by side comparison of a Pro arm with an A/C pin vs. a Pro arm with the stock bolt & washer assembly with the intention of looking for possible additional flex? It might be a subtle but noticeable difference. Just curious.
Thanks,
Anthony "I only appear to be an idiot" Hardwick ;)
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Okay Erwin, now we're taking this thread more into Arm territory... Maybe there should be a category called "Homeless" for homeless threads?
By the way, the original steadicam aircraft pin fits perfectly into the PRO arm.Benjamin
Is this at the expense of adding flex to the joint though? I think it must. From my observations, the Pro arm has less flex at that joint (socket block to arm) than a Master Series Iso-Elastic with an aircraft Pin. I have never tried or seen an aircraft pin fitted to a Pro arm, so I really have no idea if this would introduce more flex. Something tells me it would. If it doesn't, then it seems that this would be a great way to go for the convenience of being able to change the orientation quickly. There have been more than a couple of times that I've needed to do just that with my Master Series arm, and it has been a relief to have the A/C pin.
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Erwin,
I suspect the easiest solution for the time being is to use the more traditional style garfield mounts (Jerry Hill, CP, etc) for vehicle mount situations. This just means that if you use a DSD/Klassen vest, that you have to swap your male (arm) socket block around between soft mounts and hard mounts. I can't imagine that there is enough pressure on the arm to deform it while wearing it on your body (these vests have been in the field for a number of years now). Very interesting find though - thank you for sharing.
Alec,
I actually had a problem with the first Garfield mount I bought that was of the more traditional variety you mention. On the very first use, it damaged the titanium socket block of my arm. It turns out that the machining of the Garfield mount in question was not quite up to the specs for the socket block, and thus prevented perfect mating. As a result the screws bit down on the edge of my arm's male socket block. I knew this was occuring at the time, but I was on a job, and I had no other alternative to get the shot, and believe me, I was sweating the security of the connection.
The shot went off fine, but my arm's socket block needed to be remachined after that. I wasn't very happy about that, and I immediately returned the Garfield mount to the manufacturer for a full refund. I then bought a Klassen Hard mount, which has less flex, is built and designed better, and costs less than that first one. It's also machined to the right specs for the mating of the male and female parts of the socket block.
Also, with a Tiffen style arm (with aircraft pin) it's no big deal to turn the arm's socket block around, but on a Pro arm (and others?) it's a bigger pain in the ass in the field.
Anthony
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Thomas,
Walter Klassen's company makes two "harnesses" - or vests. The Original style one, and the newer Walter Lite version. The Walter Lite version is lighter (obviously) and has a more simple door design for entry/exit. As far as I can tell, the low profile arm (with the 45 degree bend in it) is available for both vests, and can be purchased for older vests as well.
There was some talk of the Walter Lite not giving enough support on the upper back area, and I believe Walter has addressed this or is adressing this issue by making the upper back area of the Lite wider and closer to the profile of the original style. Other than that, I believe the Lite version does not employ an air bladder for the lower back part of the vest either.
Finally, the Walter Lite is less expensive than the original, due to less carbon fiber and other materials used (leather, etc.), and I assume quicker construction time. These vests are all hand made to the operator's specs/measurements.
I could be wrong about any and all of this. I'm going from memory, and I'm too lazy to look it up on Walter's site. You can find all of this info there though.
I have the original style model (# 94 I think), and I love it. I only wish I could retrofit it with the lower profile arm, but I can't see spending $1750.00 or so to do it. This is the temporary price if they re-use some of your original carbon arm fittings. It's still more than I can see spending after the original $9000.00
Ah well... there's always something better :(
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I second the workshop choice. You will learn much, and probably save yourself from picking up too many bad habits on your own. It's intensive, so you will gain good practice time with your instruction that will probably be the most efficient use of your limited free time. You will also learn a number of good drills and practice methods for continuing to improve your skills after the workshop.
Also, anytime you have the opportunity to watch other good operators at work is highly recommended. Having been an A.C. for 6 years, and a D.P./Operator for the last 9 years, I have had the good fortune of being in a position to meet, make friends with and watch many great steadicam operators doing their thing before getting serious about steadicam myself. I can honestly say that I have learned something valuable from every single steadicam operator I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with.
:D
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I am definately going to get to a workshop soon. Do they let you bring your own rig to operate?
You are encouraged to so that you get to know your individual gear all the better.
This is only the case if your rig happens to be a Tiffen model - at least at the Pennsylvania workshops sponsored by Tiffen. You can't really fault them for that though. The workshop is a great one, and you will definitely learn a lot.
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Unbelievable drama... wow, I've missed alot over the past few days I guess. There is so much that I would like to say about this ridiculous situation, the series of absolutely unethical actions Mr. Byro is clearly guilty of, and the twisted "logic" he uses to justify his actions and words. Instead, I will simply say this:
Mr. Byro, return the man's equipment to him free of charge. This is the only reasonable solution to this dispute. No other options are acceptable. Period.
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I'm not saying there is anything wrong.... BUT if there is a law suit pending or in progress by Arri against P + S Technik, then apparently someone at Arriflex thinks there is.
May "Guild" meeting
in News, Events, Workshops
Posted
I think that's a grand idea, and as for that last suggestion of yours...
Please DO! Just don't tell my girlfriend ;)
Anth
PS - To all of you lady operators out there... take it easy! I'm just kidding...
(sort of)
PPS - David, I just wrote an EPIC post on everything you ever wanted to know about the Saftey Pass courses in the "Off Topic" section of the forum.