A letter from the president of ASEPO...
Greetings Special Effects Craftspersons and Pyrotechnic Operators: |
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Many of you have asked, "Just what is ASEPO, and what can it do for me?" ASEPO is a grass roots organization created to serve the interests of all special effects and pyrotechnic operators, both union, non-union, in the United States and International. ASEPO helps and represents not only the coordinator, but also those who do the work. ASEPO is the only organization dedicated to looking out for your interests. Without ASEPO's tireless efforts, many unwelcome regulations and standards would have been inflicted on the Special Effects Community and the entire Entertainment Community.
It is true that many of our efforts have been directed at California issues, where much of the special effects work is done. However what happens in California is soon applied to the rest of the United States and throughout the world.
It is in your best interests to support ASEPO, because ASEPO is is there to speak out for you with the clout of a Professional Organization.
Responded to the State Fire Marshal's Proposed Regulations, which would have split the California First Class Pyrotechnic Operator's License scope. This might have denied new First Class Operators the ability to do Theatrical work without a costly additional license.
Distributed the book, "Thinking Physics", to the Membership for the purpose of continuing education. This book was distributed after the author, Lewis Carroll Epstein, put on a lively talk at ASEPO's Annual Meeting in December.
Facilitated a Theatrical Seminar with the help of various individuals, businesses and government entities to educate the ASEPO Membership and to assist in licensing requirements.
After years of effort, we now have an insurance program available for ASEPO Members. This program allows members to purchase Loss and Damage and Liability insurance at a reasonable cost.
On-going projects include: |
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A booth at ShowBiz Expo 1999 (our third consecutive year), to emphasize professionalism and to educate the Entertainment Community about ASEPO.
Reviewing new language that will eventually graduate to the status of Proposed Regulations. Our objectives are to keep these regulations as practical as possible, while maintaining a safe workplace.
Reviewing the latest policy statements from the SFM regarding the requirement for a Public Display License. This could require a Public Display License for any pyrotechnic special effects, if members of the public are permitted to watch filming "on location". We don't believe that was the intent of the legislature, the Attorney General or previous SFM administrations. Without further clarification in the field, this could become a real hardship to the production companies when they already have adequate insurance.
Following the process of the appointment of the new State Fire Marshal, we will offer whatever assistance we can to whomever Governor Gray Davis appoints. If the Governor asks for our input, we will be candid!
Working to get an exemption in the new NFPA Standards for Propane Tanks, to allow for special effects controlled fires. The new standard limits outflow from propane tanks, making safe "fire jobs" extremely difficult.
Reviewing NFPA Standard 1126, "Pyrotechnics Before a Proximate Audience". We have applied for a seat on that committee.
Working on various ATF regulations, dealing with record keeping requirements and storage. We are also trying to clarify the classifications regarding detonators and igniters. In addition, we are working to get the standards for magazines updated to allow modern bullet resistant material, thus enabling the pyrotechnic operator more latitude in storage without undue weight.
Publishing a regular newsletter, updating the membership on current regulatory events, safety issues and items of general interest.
Working with the Motion Picture Association of America on the proposed Senate Anti-Terrorist Act for various Motion Picture exemptions.
Participating on the AMPTP Labor-Management Safety Committee, which issues the Industry-Wide Safety Bulletins. These are the Motion Picture and Television Safety Standards used throughout the world.
In short, ASEPO is the watchdog for your interests. ASEPO continues to protect your interests and is working on new ways to serve the Members. ASEPO helps to create an atmosphere of professionalism for the Special Effects Person and Pyrotechnic Operator. The membership fee is a small price to pay for your representation before the various regulatory bodies and the other benefits you receive. The Board of Directors works for you without compensation, so all dues and contributions go toward helping you. The more members ASEPO has, the more clout ASEPO has. It is important for you to join ASEPO, renew, and recruit more members. Your support is essential, as without ASEPO, you have no voice in government. Without ASEPO, we are powerless as individuals.
With Warmest Regards,
Matthew Sweeney
President, ASEPO Inc.
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