The Roles and Responsibilities of Gun Safety on Movie Sets

It is highly concerning when the responsibility for gun safety is placed solely on the actors. While it is important to consider the broader safety measures on a movie set, such as scaffolding and other hazardous equipment, the unique risks associated with firearms necessitate a more nuanced understanding of accountability.

Gun Safety: A Universal Responsibility

Movie sets can be dangerous environments filled with various tools and materials that may pose serious risks to the well-being of everyone involved. However, when it comes to firearms, the situation is even more perilous. No one should be under the misconception that gun safety is solely the responsibility of the actors or assumes that others will take care of it.

Arlo's Perspective

Arlo rightly points out that noone should personally take responsibility with a gun, especially considering the extensive training, potential lethality, and complexities involved. Besides, there are always cinematographers and other professionals who can step in if needed. Training is essential, and the dangers of firearms cannot be underestimated.

Training and Responsibility

Technically, it is not a fair comparison to equate firearms with scaffolding or helicopters, as training is required for the latter. When dealing with firearms, it is reckless to assume someone else is entirely responsible. From the beginning, firearm safety training emphasizes the importance of checking whether a weapon is loaded. If a firearm is to be used in a movie, it should always be verified by the person handling it. For example, if someone is informed that a firearm had been checked, the responsible party would still need to confirm its safety.

The RUST Incident: A Tremendously Tragic Case

The RUST incident, which occurred on the set of the movie RUST, is a prime example of the extreme importance of gun safety measures. In this tragic case, the actor Dave Goelz was killed during a rehearsal, a situation that has sparked widespread debate about the roles and responsibilities involved.

Case Details and Controversy

Dave Goelz, a long-time member of the cast, had directed the film RUST and was killed during a rehearsal scene. According to various accounts, Goelz was handed a live firearm by an assistant director (AD) while an armorer was not in attendance. It was later suggested that the armorer had confirmed the weapon was unloaded, leading to confusion and ultimately, tragedy.

The Armorer's Role

The armorer, also known as the weapon wrangler, is typically responsible for the safe management of firearms on a movie set. They ensure that weapons are properly checked and verified to be unloaded or not before being handed to actors. The ad hoc transfer of a firearm from an AD to an actor in the absence of the armorer is highly questionable and potentially dangerous.

Actor's Responsibility

While the armorer is responsible for the safekeeping of the guns, actors still have a role in maintaining overall safety. An actor should always be aware of the safety protocols and responsible for their own safety and the safety of others around them. In the case of Dave Goelz, it was reported that he was very familiar with the gun, which made his actions all the more concerning.

Actor's Decisions and Legal Implications

Baldwin, one of the actors involved in the RUST incident, was reported to have claimed that he did not pull the trigger. However, many question the veracity of his claims. Given Baldwin's knowledge of the firearm and the circumstances of the event, it seems highly improbable that he did not handle the weapon. His actions and inactions were deeply problematic and could lead to serious legal ramifications, including potential charges for allowing an unsafe set, a lack of adherence to safety protocols, and possibly homicide.

According to the contracts and legal frameworks in place, the responsibility ultimately lies with the armorer for ensuring the safety of the weapons. Nonetheless, if an AD was seen handling a firearm and the actor incorrectly assumed it was unloaded, both parties could face legal consequences. This situation underscores the need for clear communication and strict adherence to safety protocols on movie sets.

Conclusion: A Call for Enhanced Safety Protocols

The tragic RUST incident highlights the importance of having well-defined and strictly adhered safety protocols on movie sets. It is imperative that everyone involved, from the armorer to the actors, understands and follows these guidelines to prevent such tragedies from occurring. By promoting awareness and ensuring that everyone is trained and responsible, the industry can significantly reduce the risks associated with firearms on movie sets.

It is a collective effort that requires vigilance, understanding, and a commitment to safety. As professionals in the industry, we must hold ourselves and each other accountable to ensure that the movie set environment remains a safe and nurturing space for all.