Story Highlight
– Crew member injured, lost multiple fingers on set.
– Incident occurred at Sky Studios Elstree production workshop.
– Special effects technician was using a saw during accident.
– Concerns about safety conditions in UK film industry growing.
– Injury reported amid previous warnings about worker safety risks.
Full Story
A serious incident on the set of the forthcoming film How to Train Your Dragon 2 has raised significant safety concerns within the UK film industry. A special effects technician is reported to have lost multiple fingers due to a work-related accident that occurred earlier this month at Sky Studios Elstree, where production of the sequel is currently underway.
While details of the incident remain sparse, it is understood that the technician was involved in equipment operations when the unfortunate accident took place. Reports indicate that efforts were made by medical professionals to surgically reattach the severed digits; however, these attempts were ultimately unsuccessful, leading to severe injuries for the crew member.
The specifics of the accident are not publicly known, sparking discussions about safety practices within the film and television sector in the UK. Concerns regarding on-set safety have increasingly come to light, particularly in the wake of previous statements from industry organisations. Last year, Bectu, a trade union representing creative workers, issued a warning alongside Pact about the inherent health and safety risks that workers face on set. Their findings pointed to the often hazardous practices of keeping crew members on duty beyond their scheduled rest periods, commonly referred to as “broken turnaround.”
Spencer Macdonald, a representative from Bectu, commented on the issue, stating, “Breaking turnaround impacts workers’ ability to do their job safely and effectively.” He further highlighted a worrying trend, noting that reports to Bectu indicate a rise in exhaustion-related incidents, accidents, and near-misses among film industry professionals, alongside serious mental health challenges.
The popularity of the How to Train Your Dragon franchise, originally based on Cressida Cowell’s best-selling books, has made it one of Universal’s most lucrative family-oriented properties, amassing over $2.2 billion (£1.7 billion) in global box office revenue from previous releases. The first live-action adaptation of the series was especially successful, raking in more than $636 million (£500 million) worldwide and becoming the franchise’s highest-grossing entry to date.
The sequel, set to hit cinemas on June 11, 2027, features a talented cast that includes Phil Dunster, Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gerard Butler, Cate Blanchett, and Julian Dennison, among others. Although filming commenced in February this year, the recent setback due to the on-set injury presents a troubling challenge for the production team.
As the film industry continues its recovery and growth following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is a pressing need for the implementation of stringent safety measures. The incident at Sky Studios serves as a stark reminder that the well-being of crew members must remain a priority, not only to safeguard individuals on set but also to maintain the overall health of the industry.
Universal Pictures has not yet publicly addressed the incident or commented on the circumstances surrounding it. As investigations are likely to follow, stakeholders will be eager to see what steps will be taken to mitigate risks in future productions. Industry experts and advocacy groups are expected to advocate for reforms aimed at improving working conditions, ensuring that safety protocols are strictly adhered to during filming.
This accident also spotlights a broader conversation about the pressures faced by those in film and television production, where long hours and tight deadlines can often compromise safety. Commentators within the industry are stressing the need for measurable changes in how productions are managed, particularly regarding crew welfare and the enforcement of health and safety regulations.
In light of these circumstances, it will be crucial for Universal and associated parties to take a transparent approach in addressing the incident, reassuring the public and the industry that they are committed to fostering a safe working environment. The success of any filmmaking venture hinges not only on the talent before the camera but importantly, on the safety, health, and well-being of the individuals behind the scenes.
As the production continues, stakeholders and advocates alike will be closely watching how Universal responds to this situation, and whether the studio will implement changes to ensure such accidents do not recur in the future. The significance of this incident is likely to resonate far beyond the set of How to Train Your Dragon 2, potentially catalysing much-needed reforms across the film industry.
Our Thoughts
The serious injury sustained by a crew member on the production of How to Train Your Dragon 2 raises significant health and safety concerns under UK legislation. To avoid such incidents, stricter adherence to risk assessments and safety protocols regarding the use of machinery, such as saws, is critical. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) and the Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations (PUWER) require proper training, maintenance, and safety measures when operating hazardous equipment.
The reported safety issues within the UK film industry, including ‘broken turnaround’ practices, suggest a systemic failure to prioritize worker safety, potentially breaching the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974. This Act mandates employers to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare of employees.
To prevent similar incidents, regular safety training should be implemented, emphasizing the risks associated with mechanical equipment. Additionally, monitoring work hours to prevent fatigue is essential, as exhaustion contributes to accidents. A robust reporting system for safety concerns should also be established to foster a culture of safety on set.
