The FSC Board of Directors met in late November to look forward and set FSC goals and action steps for 2012. The board first revisited to FSC’s three-year strategic plan — that concludes the end of 2012 — to make sure it was in keeping with its long-term goals. Those goals include improved communication, financial stability and most importantly, success in meeting the needs of our members.
With all of the attention adult production has received lately as a result of LA City’s mandatory condom law, it seems an appropriate time to remind producers and directors of some tips to make sure their sets are up to industry standards.
With all of the attention adult production has received lately as a result of LA City’s mandatory condom law, it seems an appropriate time to remind producers and directors of some tips to make sure their sets are up to industry standards.
Basic OSHA Regulations
Although the issues of OSHA regulations have not been settled, no matter what, all employers are required to have a workplace safety manual at the work site. FSC has created a basic manual that is available, free to all members or $25 for non-members. This manual acts as a basic template; businesses should alter it to meet their specific workplace. Also employees should be trained annually on the workplace safety manual. FSC, working with a number of industry leaders, has also created a more detailed bloodborne pathogens plan. It is important to note that OSHA has NOT approved this plan but, it is better than not having a plan at all, and it is what we are working toward as industry standards.
Performer Testing
When AIM closed, FSC met with a number of folks to determine how to replace those services and keep industry standards intact. APHSS (Adult Performer Health and Safety Services) was born. FSC has identified a number of facilities that can provide health services at a low price to performers with quick turnaround time for tests and most importantly, with the high standards our performers deserve. In order for a facility to qualify as an APHSS facility, it must meet our standards. Facilities must be reputable, have physicians associated with prescribing the tests, and utilize CLIA certified labs (The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regulates all laboratory testing (except research) performed on humans in the U.S. through the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments-CLIA).
These facilities agree to enter information into our database that will show if a performer is available to work. No medical data is entered, if a performer tests negative, just the date of the test and the performer’s legal name are entered and the database automatically calculates when the test expires. In looking up information on a performer, the producer or director will only be able to ascertain whether the performer is available to work. Producers/directors will not know if the performer is “not available” because they tested positive or because they just haven’t tested. Moreover, the available/not available printout from the database can be kept by directors and producers without the dangerous liability issues that come with keeping a copy of a performer’s test on file.
Licensed and Bonded Agents
When working with agents, I can’t stress enough the importance of making sure that you are working with licensed and bonded agents. In order for an agent to become licensed and bonded, they must have their contracts approved by the labor commission of the state in which they work. When you work through a licensed and bonded agent you ensure that they follow the proper procedures for performer contracts and compensation and that they are a reputable agent responsible to the state labor commission.
