A cooler, while seemingly mundane, occupies a unique and often misunderstood position on a film set. It is not strictly an expendable in the traditional sense, but its contents certainly are, and the cooler itself can be subject to wear and tear that necessitates replacement depending on the budget and production’s operating procedures. The line blurs depending on whether we’re talking about the plastic bin itself or its contents, and the level of care shown towards it.
The Cooler’s Dual Identity: Equipment vs. Contents
The question of whether a cooler is an expendable on a film set is deceptively complex because it requires distinguishing between the cooler itself and its contents – namely, ice, water, drinks, and sometimes even food. Expendables are typically materials consumed or used up during production, like gaffer tape, batteries, and printer paper. These items are factored into the budget as a recurring cost and expected to be replaced regularly.
The cooler, as a piece of equipment, functions differently. While not as technologically advanced as a camera or lighting rig, it’s considered a tool used to ensure the well-being of the cast and crew. It helps maintain hydration and sometimes provides readily accessible snacks, contributing to overall productivity and morale. The expectation is that the cooler, with reasonable care, will last throughout the shoot. However, the contents are absolutely an expendable, requiring frequent restocking.
Factors Determining Cooler Expendability
Several factors contribute to whether a cooler ends up being treated as an expendable:
- Budget Size: Low-budget productions might prioritize other expenses, leading to less durable coolers that are more prone to damage and ultimately considered disposable. Higher-budget projects can afford more robust and reusable coolers.
- Shoot Duration and Location: Longer shoots and challenging locations (e.g., outdoor shoots in extreme heat or rugged terrain) increase the likelihood of cooler damage and eventual replacement.
- Production Practices: How the production team handles the cooler matters. Is it treated with care, stored properly, and cleaned regularly? Or is it subjected to rough handling and neglect?
- Rental vs. Purchase: If the cooler is rented, damages might result in fees, but the cooler remains the property of the rental company. Purchased coolers are usually meant to last, but damage can easily lead to replacement.
- Crew Size and Demands: A larger crew consuming more contents necessitates frequent restocking, potentially leading to increased cooler wear and tear.
Defining “Reasonable Wear and Tear”
Determining what constitutes “reasonable wear and tear” is crucial. A crack in the lid due to accidental dropping might be considered reasonable, especially on a hectic set. However, deliberate misuse or neglect (e.g., using the cooler as a stepstool) leading to significant damage falls outside this definition and might warrant replacement.
Budgeting for Cooler-Related Expenses
Prudent production managers factor in cooler-related expenses in their budgets, recognizing that while the cooler itself may not be a dedicated expendable, its upkeep and potential replacement need consideration. This includes:
- Ice and Beverages: These are definitely expendable and constitute the bulk of the cooler-related budget.
- Cleaning Supplies: Cleaning wipes, disinfecting sprays, and paper towels are essential for maintaining hygiene.
- Repair or Replacement Fund: A small contingency fund to cover minor repairs or even the complete replacement of the cooler if necessary.
- Transportation Costs: The cost of transporting the cooler to and from the set each day.
FAQs: Decoding Cooler Conundrums on Set
FAQ 1: Who is responsible for restocking the cooler on set?
Typically, the responsibility for restocking the cooler falls to the Production Assistant (PA) team. One PA might be specifically assigned to craft services or runner duties, which includes ensuring the cooler is adequately stocked with ice, water, and other beverages throughout the day. The specific division of labor depends on the size and structure of the production.
FAQ 2: What are the best practices for maintaining a cooler on a film set?
Best practices include: regularly emptying melted ice to prevent waterlogging, cleaning the cooler after each use with a disinfectant wipe, storing the cooler in a shaded area when not in use to prevent overheating, and instructing crew members to avoid placing heavy items on the lid.
FAQ 3: Can a production be held liable for illnesses resulting from a dirty cooler?
Yes, absolutely. Neglecting cooler hygiene can lead to bacterial growth, potentially causing foodborne illnesses among the cast and crew. Productions have a legal and ethical responsibility to provide a safe and healthy working environment. Proper cleaning and maintenance of the cooler are crucial in preventing such situations.
FAQ 4: What types of beverages are typically found in a film set cooler?
Common beverages include bottled water, juice boxes, soda, and sometimes electrolyte drinks. Some productions may also offer iced coffee or tea. The specific selection depends on the budget, the preferences of the cast and crew, and dietary considerations.
FAQ 5: Are there alternatives to traditional coolers for keeping drinks cold on set?
Yes, alternatives include refrigerated beverage dispensers, electric coolers, and even renting refrigerator trucks for larger productions. These options can be more expensive but offer greater convenience and temperature control, especially in hot climates.
FAQ 6: How does the size of the production influence the type of cooler used?
Smaller independent productions often rely on standard-sized plastic coolers. Larger productions may utilize multiple coolers of varying sizes or invest in more robust, industrial-grade coolers with greater capacity and insulation.
FAQ 7: What measures can be taken to prevent cooler theft on location shoots?
To prevent theft, coolers should be clearly marked with the production company’s logo and stored in a secure location whenever possible. Assigning a designated person to oversee the cooler and its contents can also deter theft. On public locations, securing the cooler to a fixed object with a cable and lock can also be helpful.
FAQ 8: What are the environmental considerations related to using coolers on film sets?
Environmental considerations include the use of disposable plastic water bottles and the disposal of melted ice water. Productions are increasingly adopting sustainable practices, such as providing reusable water bottles, using water filtration systems, and properly disposing of ice water in designated drains.
FAQ 9: How do union regulations address the provision of water and refreshments on film sets?
Union agreements, particularly those with SAG-AFTRA and IATSE, often stipulate that productions must provide readily accessible drinking water and appropriate refreshments for cast and crew members. These agreements aim to ensure the health and well-being of workers on set.
FAQ 10: What role does craft services play in cooler management?
Craft services is often responsible for purchasing, stocking, and maintaining the cooler. They ensure that the cooler is adequately supplied with ice and beverages and that it is kept clean and hygienic. On smaller productions, this task might fall to the Production Assistant.
FAQ 11: What is the average lifespan of a cooler on a film set?
The average lifespan of a cooler varies greatly depending on the factors outlined above, but with proper care, a good quality cooler can last for several shoots. However, wear and tear is inevitable, and most coolers will need to be replaced eventually.
FAQ 12: Should productions invest in high-end coolers, or are budget-friendly options sufficient?
The decision to invest in high-end coolers versus budget-friendly options depends on the production’s budget, duration, and location. While high-end coolers offer superior insulation and durability, budget-friendly options can be sufficient for shorter shoots in moderate climates. The key is to choose a cooler that meets the specific needs of the production and is properly maintained.