Set Etiquette Training
Set Standards of Respect Before Cameras Roll
Independent producers face unique challenges with no HR departments, limited resources, and high pressure environments. The PGA offers Set Etiquette Training designed to foster a culture of respect. This program includes free harassment prevention training and two hours of legal support for your production, helping producers clearly define and understand acceptable behavior.
For us, Set Etiquette Training is a staple on every production; it sets the tone for a safe, respectful, and fun workplace.
Independent Producer
Training sessions are tailored to your needs, interactive, and designed to fit seamlessly into your pre-production schedule. This program equips independent productions with the information they need to promote accountability from day one. Crews leave the training with a shared language and clear understanding of workplace boundaries. This not only prevents misconduct but also builds a healthier, more professional environment.
Set Etiquette Training
What is included?
1. Training
- Virtual or in person interactive harassment prevention session
- Conducted during pre-production with producers, department heads, cast and crew
- Led by an experienced attorney
- Flexible in scope and length (typically up to one hour and tailored to your production's unique needs)
Note: the standard training does not meet state legal requirements, but we can request a legally compliant training for the production if preferred.
2. Tools for Respect
- Guide for Independent Production Companies – Helping you maintain a safe set while meeting program guidelines
- Code of Conduct – An agreement to be shared out with cast and crew prior to the training
- Guidelines for a Safer Workplace – What you need to know to maintain a safe and professional work environment
- Guidelines for Set Responders – Clarifies the role and responsibilities of designated Set Responders
- Incident Log – A template for Set Responders to record and address complaints
- Glossary of Terms – Shared definitions and industry language developed jointly by the Producers Guild of America (PGA) and the Hollywood Commission
3. Legal Support
- Access to up to two (2) hours of free legal consultation for your production to discuss questions or issues related to topics covered during the Set Etiquette Training
- Additional legal support available at the attorney’s standard rates
Eligibility
Who Can Apply for Free Set Etiquette Training
Set Etiquette Training is available regardless of PGA membership. To be eligible, productions must:
- Be a U.S. - based production
- Have at least 20 cast and crew members or be a signatory to the I.A.T.S.E. Low Budget Theatrical Agreement
- Be independent (not directly financed or produced by a major studio/streamer, and typically without a dedicated HR department)
- Schedule training during pre-production
- Select two (2) Set Responders
- Distribute a Code of Conduct and agree to follow program guidelines
How It Works
- Apply Online – Applications are accepted on a rolling basis (submit 4-6 weeks before training date).
- Confirm Eligibility – Sign the Set Etiquette Training Contract.
- Onboarding – Receive your Tools for Respect.
- Prep Call – Meet with your assigned attorney to tailor the training to your production (e.g., intimate scenes, minors, stunts).
- Training Delivery – Conducted during pre-production for all producers, department heads, Set Responders, cast and crew.
- Ongoing Support – Access to up to two (2) hours of legal consultation for your production.
Industry Collaboration
If you’re running an independent production, the PGA’s Set Etiquette Training is your first step. Complementary to PGA’s Set Etiquette Training, the Hollywood Commission offers additional resources designed to foster harassment-free workplaces across the entertainment industry.
If you’re an individual looking for confidential advice or additional resources, the Hollywood Commission can also provide support outside of your production’s chain of command.
Find out here how to access these resources and what is available.
Legal Considerations
PGA’s Set Etiquette Training is not a substitute for any legal obligations your production may have to provide state-mandated harassment prevention training. Please speak with your trained attorney if you have questions.
Set Etiquette Training
FAQ
What can my production expect from the training?
My cast and crew are members of unions that already provide sexual harassment training. Is this training a good use of time in our already tight schedule?
The Producers Guild’s Set Etiquette Training is different than the traditional, online sexual harassment prevention training provided by many unions. Set Etiquette Training can be tailored to the specific needs and circumstances of your production. You have the opportunity to discuss the tone and culture that you would like to establish on set. The training can be easily adapted to your schedule, and can range from thirty minutes to an hour in length. If you need training that satisfies legal requirements, we can discuss this option with your production's assigned attorney.
Is the training free? Is the production responsible for any costs?
Each production is provided with free harassment prevention training led by an experienced attorney, Tools for Respect and access to up to two (2) hours of complimentary legal consultation, if necessary. Time may be used to discuss concerns or incidents related to topics covered during the training. If the production requires additional legal assistance beyond the complimentary two (2) hours, it is responsible for payment of those costs at the attorney's standard rates.
Who should attend this training?
Everyone who is part of the production is encouraged to attend, especially all Producers, department heads, cast and crew including the two designated Set Responders.
What is the role of Set Responders? Are they really necessary?
Productions will designate two team members for receiving and elevating complaints. Guidelines for Set Responders can be found here.
These individuals help create a sense of safety for all involved on a production. Set Responders should be approachable, fair-minded, and prepared to report issues up the chain, as necessary. While Set Responders should expect that they may receive feedback, they are not responsible for mediating disputes.
What if we sign up for the training and then need to reschedule?
We understand that productions are fast-paced and always moving. If you need to reschedule your training, please contact your assigned attorney as soon as possible. The PGA cannot guarantee that all scheduling changes will be accommodated.
Other Eligibility Questions
Our project is not being produced by PGA members. Is the production still eligible?
Membership in the PGA is not required to participate in the Set Etiquette Training program. As long as your production meets all the program requirements, your production will be eligible
I am not a Producer, can I apply?
Others may apply for Set Etiquette Training on behalf of the Producer, or the Producer may assign a point person to act on their behalf. However, the head of the production company or their designee is ultimately responsible for completing the Set Etiquette Training contract.
I am a student or producing a student film, am I eligible?
Any student or student film Producer may be eligible. For full eligibility requirements, please see the "Who Can Apply" section.
My production is affiliated with a major studio or another production company. Does the production qualify?
It depends. If the studio or production company does not have an HR department or has a limited HR department, you may still qualify. There may be other specific reasons that the production qualifies for the training. We recommend that you submit an application. The PGA will review your application and respond.