Ensuring Crew Safety: Lessons Learned from the 'How to Train Your Dragon 2' Set Incident
A crew member working on the live-action sequel "How to Train Your Dragon 2" suffered a severe injury in the U.K. The incident occurred off-set at Sky Studios Elstree, where the film is currently being produced. The individual, a special effects technician, had multiple fingers severed in an accident involving a saw. Despite surgery, the fingers could not be reattached.
Directed by Dean Deblois, "How to Train Your Dragon 2" began filming at Sky Studios Elstree in February. The cast includes Mason Thames, Nico Parker, Gabriel Howell, Julian Dennison, Bronwyn James, Harry Trevaldwyn, Nick Frost, Gerard Butler, and Cate Blanchett as Valka. New casting additions include Ólafur Darri Ólafsson and Phil Dunster.
The film, produced by Marc Platt Productions, is set for release on June 11, 2027. The circumstances of the accident are unclear, but concerns about health and safety in film and TV productions have been raised by unions like Bectu and Pact. Issues such as workers being asked to work without adequate rest periods have been linked to safety risks and poor mental health among crew members.
In light of the recent accident on the set of "How to Train Your Dragon 2," it is essential for production companies to prioritize the safety and well-being of their crew members. Health and safety protocols must be strictly followed to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. Our thoughts are with the injured crew member, and we hope for their swift recovery.