Film may well be the most accessible, collaborative and universal art form we have. Its ability to tell stories both real and fantastical has enraptured the masses for well over a century, and there are certainly no signs of this slowing down.
The process of making a film is no less dramatic and enthralling than the end product itself, as dozens of artists from across the creative spectrum dash about the film set seeing to their individual responsibilities. However, this frantic process of creation can have some unfortunate side-effects, particularly where hygiene is concerned.
Maintaining a hygienic environment on a film set is a monumental undertaking for any studio; long hours can cause costumes to become sweaty and uncomfortable for actors, props can become breeding grounds for bacteria, and the necessity of sharing trailers for smaller productions can create spaces that are unpleasant to inhabit.
This, in turn, can have negative implications for the production, as poor hygiene could cause members of both the cast and crew to become ill, halting progress. This is why pre- and post-production cleaning processes are commonly implemented, but there is one method that could help alleviate many of these common film set hygiene issues.
In this informative blog post, we will explore how Ozone technology can be used on film sets to keep production moving, increase the comfort of cast and crew, and reduce the chance of production being halted due to illness.
What is Ozone and how does it work?
Ozone is a naturally occurring gas that is made up of three oxygen molecules, hence why it is often abbreviated to O3. It exists in the upper atmosphere, protecting the earth from the sun’s rays, but it also boasts powerful oxidising properties. This allows it to eliminate odours, bacteria, viruses and mould.
This is why we are harnessing the power of Ozone generation technology to create more welcoming and hygienic spaces, including on film sets. When used correctly, this gas provides an excellent alternative to the harsh chemicals that might otherwise be used while cleaning the studio or set.
Of course, proper precautions must be taken in order to implement Ozone generation technology effectively and safely for film set occupants, with proper ventilation being chief among these. We will explain the applications of different Ozone generators deeper within this blog post.
What are the benefits of Ozone for film set hygiene?
There are numerous benefits to implementing Ozone technology into your production schedule. Here, we will break some of these down to give you a better understanding of the significant potential of Ozone.
- Freshen shared spaces:
As previously mentioned, sometimes film production necessitates that multiple cast and crew members must share a space for extended periods of time. For example, many contemporary film productions rely on extensive prosthetics to bring a character to life.
The application of these prosthetics can take several hours to complete, meaning an actor and the makeup and special effects teams must occupy a single trailer or dressing room for a long time. You can use Ozone to disinfect these spaces quickly and effectively, and the same is true of restrooms and other common areas.
- Costume cleaning and deodorisation:
Often the unsung hero of many film productions, costumes are exposed to all manner of elements in the process of filming, all while having to achieve a very specific look. For example, an actor may have to stand near a controlled fire for a shot, causing their costume to smell very strongly of smoke.
An Ozone generator could be used to deodorise the costume, removing the smell and allowing the cast and crew to resume filming quickly without any lingering odours. This is also important as motion capture continues to become more prevalent and accessible for smaller studios, as actors must give intensely physical performances in the tight suits.
This is particularly useful for productions that are inherently physical, such as filming an action sequence, as an actor is likely to become sweaty. Ozone is an exceptional natural purifier, able to destroy bacteria without the need to wash the entire costume.
- Air purification:
Air quality is of the utmost importance when creating a work environment that is comfortable and conducive to the well-being of occupants. Ozone can eliminate airborne pathogens and allergens, reducing the chance of anyone becoming unwell and, as previously mentioned, causing production to be held up unnecessarily.
This is particularly pertinent for enclosed sets and sound stages, as their confined nature means that air quality is especially noticeable. Regardless of genre, many films contain shots that can only be achieved with the use of a green screen or LED wall. These sets are often small, so a high standard of air quality must be maintained.
- Mould and mildew control:
Like any indoor location, a film set is susceptible to the growth of mould and mildew. Whether the set suffers from poor ventilation, contains a large volume of heated water for aquatic filming, or a combination of these, mould and mildew pose a serious risk to the health of the cast and crew.
Ozone can be used to stop mould spores from sprouting, as well as eliminating the unpleasant odour they carry. Combined with a cleaning and removal service if needed, this increases the safety of any film set and protects everyone from the potentially severe effects of mould.
- Equipment cleaning:
Props are everywhere on a film set. Whether it’s an elegant umbrella carried by a secret agent or a bloodied battle axe wielded by a Viking, props immerse actors and audience alike in the story and setting being portrayed. Unfortunately, they are also subject to the same rough treatment as costumes and can be unhygienic as a result.
A prop changes many hands during production before ending up with the actor, thus Ozone can be used to destroy surface bacteria and make the process more hygienic. The same is true of tools used behind the scenes such as makeup applicators, so it is worth considering Ozone technology throughout all areas of the set.
Choosing the right Ozone generator for your film set
We have developed a cutting-edge selection of Ozone generators that are suited to serve different purposes. In this section, we will detail the specific benefits of each and how they can be aptly applied to the exciting world of the film set.
- Continental Unit:
The Continental Ozone generator provides discreet, continuous odour control for film sets, ideal for restrooms, dressing rooms, or areas with lingering food smells. Its permanent wall/ceiling mounting and timed release offer automated freshness without needing constant attention, making it deal for long shoots.
- Corona Unit:
The Corona portable ozone generator is ideal for quickly deodorising unoccupied areas of a film set, such as dressing rooms or prop storage, between scenes or overnight. Its portability allows for easy relocation, and its timed operation requires minimal oversight, ensuring a fresh environment for cast and crew.
- Premier Unit:
The Premier Unit is ideal for film sets due to its rapid 20-minute turnaround time for treated rooms, minimising downtime. Wi-Fi control offers convenient operation, and its high ozone output effectively eliminates doors and bacteria in various on-set locations, from dressing rooms to sound stages.
- Ozone Cabinet:
Ozone cabinets are ideal for film costumes, gently and effectively deodorising fabrics. Since Ozone eliminates odours and bacteria without harsh chemicals or water, costume integrity is preserved, and the lifespan is extended. This is particularly ideal for period productions in which costumes are made using more delicate fabrics.
Why choose Ozone Direct?
Ozone technology is ideally suited to maintaining the hygiene of film sets, whether it’s keeping props and costumes disinfected and odour-free or creating a more comfortable working environment for everyone with enhanced air quality.
Investing in this state-of-the-art technology is beneficial for the cast, crew and production in general, as the chance of illness is significantly reduced.
Our range of Ozone generating units can be implemented throughout a film set according to the needs of the production. If you need help determining which unit is best for your set, our team can provide specialist support. Contact us today to support your next production with the power of Ozone.
