Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1367665
24 SAG-AFTRA | Spring 2021 | sagaftra.org W ith vaccine distribution proceeding at an accelerated pace, the end of the pandemic seems within reach, and we can at last start dreaming about a return to normal. But it's also a critical time, where we can build on the progress we have made or face a resurgence of the virus. "Complacency is the most challenging aspect [of my job]," said COVID Compliance Supervisor Alison Kohlhardt. "Think of others that you are working with or going home to. We encourage everyone to follow best practices, procedures and protocols on and off set to keep each other safer." As a COVID compliance supervisor, Kohlhardt's job is to ensure safety protocols are followed on television and film sets, and that cast and crew can do their jobs while minimizing exposure to COVID-19. The role was created last year in response to the pandemic and members' desire to get back to work, as part of the Return to Work Agreement with producers. Getting the producers to agree to a strict — and sometimes costly — set of guidelines that make members' safety a priority was only one element of the overall plan. The members must do their part as well to protect themselves and others. That's true even if local regulations are less strict. On-set protocols must be followed, even in states that have lifted mask mandates, and the union can take disciplinary action against those who endanger others by flouting the rules. Violations of safety protocols can be reported to the union by calling the 24-hour safety hotline, (844) SAFER SET. This number can also be found on the back of your membership card, on the member app and the SAG-AFTRA website. This pandemic is a crisis that affects us all, and we can only beat it collectively. Driving that message home, SAG-AFTRA members, including Jennie Garth, Jason George and Vincent Pastore, recorded a series of videos encouraging members to get vaccinated as soon as they are eligible. Those were shared in social media and may be viewed on the union's website at sagaftra.org/videos by clicking on the COVID-19 link. Visit sagaftra.org/covid-19. There you'll find links to the CDC's Vaccine Finder, the Return to Work Agreement and much more. Do Your Part for On-Set Safety: Get the Vax Right, SAG-AFTRA Executive Vice President and New York Local President Rebecca Damon and SAG-AFTRA member Lin-Manuel Miranda at the opening of the new COVID-19 vaccination center in New York's Times Square on April 13. The facility is the latest step in safely reopening the Big Apple's film, television and theater scene. Several high-profile SAG-AFTRA members recorded videos urging members to get vaccinated. Among the participants were Alec Baldwin, Jane Lynch and Sterling K. Brown. Below, National Board member Ezra Knight points to where he got his shot. Bottom right, Secretary-Treasurer Camryn Manheim follows safety protocols on the set of the Disney+ series Big Shot.