There are many reasons why a member may want to step away from the union or industry at any given time. Below are some ways in which members can leave active membership with IATSE Local 849.

Honourable Withdrawal

If you would like to leave membership, pause your membership or stop paying quarterly dues for some time, taking an Honourable Withdrawal is a good option, especially if you plan to return to membership after being away for a year or more. By taking an Honourable Withdrawal, you will no longer be a member of Local 849. If you wish to rejoin Local 849 or any other IATSE Local, you will have to go through a reinstatement process that may vary from local to local.

To take an Honourable Withdrawal from Local 849, please download and fill out the Honourable Withdrawal Letter found here, and return it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. In order to withdraw honourably, any quarterly dues owing must be paid prior to submitting your form.

Resigning

Members also have the option to resign from the union altogether. If you do not plan to rejoin membership with IATSE in the future. The Resignation Letter can be found here, which you can download, sign and return to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. In order to resign, any quarterly dues owing must be paid prior to submitting your form.

Retiring

Members who are over the age of 65 may want to consider retiring with IATSE Local 849. To find out more information on retirement, please click here.

Expulsion

Members of IATSE Local 849 are required to make quarterly dues payments as described here

If a member fails to pay their quarterly union dues regularly, they may risk being expelled from the union. If a member has a balance owing that is 6 months overdue, they will be charged a $50 Expulsion Processing Fee and sent an expulsion notice via registered mail. The member will have 30 days from the time the letter is sent to pay the outstanding balance or make arrangements to do so, or else they will be expelled from the local.

Please review our Membership FAQs page for further details or answers to some questions. Any other questions regarding membership, requirements, or the process can be directed to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Reinstating your Membership

There are many reasons why a member may want to return to the union or industry at any given time. Below are some ways in which members can reactive membership with IATSE Local 849. To make an Application for Reinstatement with IATSE Local 849, you must provide materials based on the department you're reinstating in and your current standing with the union. Please select a department to see the specific requirements:

Overview

Each department has specific requirements to reinstate your membership. Please select a department from the dropdown list above to view the requirements. If you have any questions about the requirements, please e-mail This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Animal Wrangler
The Animal Wrangler Department is responsible for taking care of all animals that appear in front of the camera. They train the animals to perform the tasks required and handle them during the shooting of the scenes that the animals appear in.

To make an application for reinstating from honourable withdrawl in the Animal Wrangler department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Costumes
The Costume Department is responsible for all clothes worn by the actors and extras in front of the camera. They are responsible for purchasing, renting and/or making all the clothes worn by the performers, both Actors and Background Players, working in consultation with the Director and the Actor. They provide several versions of one outfit if required to expedite shooting and provide clothing to keep performers warm and dry while they are on set rehearsing or waiting to shoot.

To make an application for membership in the Costume department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
*Anyone registering to be listed in this department should be prepared to bring the Recommended Kit List when hired
Craft Service
The Craft Service Department provides the nutritional and beverage needs, other than that provided as full meals, of all the production personnel, actors and extras (when specified) on set during the shooting day. Typically, the department will maintain a supply of hot & cold beverages and snack foods at all times on set, and and also substantial snacks to take the crew through to the meal break and wrap.

To make an application for membership in the Craft Service department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A Valid Standard First Aid with CPR & AED Certificate
- A Valid Food Handlers Certificate
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Diving
The Diving Department handles all work in and under the water including the safety of all the actors and other personnel working in and under the water and assisting in constructing platforms and rigging in or under the water. Working closely with the Marine Department, divers always work in pairs.

To make an application for membership in the Diving department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A Valid Standard First Aid with CPR & AED Certificate
- A Minimum of a Rescue Diving Certificate
- A Valid Oxygen Provider Course Certificate
- Been deemed competent and fit in accordance with CSA Standards Z275.4-97 (Competency Standard for Diving Operations), Z275.2-92 9 (Occupational Safety Code for Diving Operations) and the current Occupational Diving Regulations for the Province of Operation
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Greens
The Greens Department are specialists who alter the look of locations with plants, trees and other landscaping materials.

To make an application for membership in the Greens department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Grip
The Grip Department works closely with the Lighting Department & Director of Photography to position & move the camera and blocking or diffusing light sources. The department is in charge of providing scaffolding for hanging the lights, add flags & silks to soften lights and create shade. They also provide means for creating high angle, low angle or unusual shots, and dollies & cranes for camera movement. Grips are also responsible for securing the camera in other situations such as on picture vehicles.

To make an application for membership in the Grip department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Hair
The Hair Department dress the hair of all performers, both Actors and Background Players, appropriate to their character and in consultation with the Director and the Actor. They also provide and dress wigs and sideburns when required, and aid the Costume Department in the placement of hats.

To make an application for membership in the Hair department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- Hold a valid Master Hairdressing Licence from one of the three maritime provinces or equivalent. This includes a Master Cosmetologist (Hairdressing) Licence from the Nova Scotia Cosmetology Association, a Master Cosmetologist (Hairstyling) Licence from the Cosmetology Association of New Brunswick, or a Master Beauty Operator from the Prince Edward Island Hairdressers Association. *Those holding different licenses may apply for a waiver from the Executive Board.
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
  1. Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
  2. Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
  3. Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
  Should an applicant not be able to provide proof of residency as described above, the Executive Board may take other items into consideration.
- Two letters of recommendation using this form. The letters of recommendation submitted for the applicant must be provided by a Local 849 Hair HOD, for which the applicant has worked a minimum of 80 hours (or 10 days). The letter must include the HOD’s experience working with the applicant, including but not limited to: skillset, organization, set etiquette, kit/preparedness, ability to take direction, attitude, etc.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
*Additionally, anyone applying for membership in this department should be prepared to bring the Recommended Kit List when hired.

Individuals holding a restricted hairdressing license or barbering license are eligible to apply, although in most cases they would need to be working under an HOD that holds a Master License in Hairdressing. Under circumstance should any individual perform any services (cutting and/or chemical services, etc) that are outside the scope of their license. It is up to the individual to be forthcoming with their type of license when being considered for a position and prior to working.
Lighting
The Lighting Department works closely with the Grip Department and the Director of Photography to light each scene, as well as managing, supplying and distributing all electrical power to all departments that need it. The department handles all the lights on set, including anything that is attached to the lights. They may work with the Rigging team to build the grid for lights in a studio.

To make an application for membership in the Lighting department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Makeup
The Makeup Department is responsible for all facial and body makeup, including bruising and wounds, and facial hair on the performers, both Actors and Background Players. They are also responsible for any prosthetics required for special effects. They design the looks in consultation with the Director and the Actor.

To make an application for membership in the Makeup department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Membership Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Established residency in one of the three Maritime Provinces for a period of at least six months immediately preceding the application being submitted. Applicants must provide two of the following documents to confirm their residency:
  1. Driver’s license from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
  2. Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces;
  3. Proof of having filed income tax for the previous year in one of the three Maritime Provinces.
  Should an applicant not be able to provide proof of residency as described above, the Executive Board may take other items into consideration.
- All requirements listed under the Makeup Department in the "Overhire Requirements" Policy (Referral requirements) must be fulfilled.
- Completed a practical exam organized by the Local 849 Makeup Department with a passing mark of 150 out of 200.
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from Local 849 HODs the applicant has worked under. The applicant must have worked a minimum of 120 hours under each HOD providing a recommendation.
Any exceptions to the above requirements must be brought to the attention of the Makeup Department and approved by The Board. Exceptions for applicants from New Brunswick and PEI that don’t meet the above requirements will be considered. Please begin submitting your application and contact the Local 849 office for additional information.

*Anyone registering to be listed in this department should make themselves familiar with the Makeup Department Etiquette Guidelines
*Anyone registering to be listed in this department should be prepared to bring the Recommended Kit List when hired
Marine
The Marine Department is responsible for providing and operating all marine equipment and for ensuring the safety of all marine activities as required by the production. The team generally consists of a Marine Coordinator, and a team of boat wranglers, safety swimmers and other assistants depending on the requirements of the show

To make an application for membership in the Marine department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A Valid Standard First Aid with CPR & AED Certificate
- Marine Emergency Duties (MED) - A1 OR STCW 6.1 Basic Safety
- Small Vessel Operators Proficiency (SVOP) Certificate
- Restricted Operator’s Certificate (ROC)
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Props
The Props Department handles anything an actor carries or handles. They work closely with the Set Decoration Department providing top dressing on a set if the actor is likely to handle it.

To make an application for membership in the Props department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Scenic Paint
The Scenic Paint Department alters surfaces to look different, aged, or as if made of other materials.

To make an application for membership in the Scenic Paint department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Script Supervisor
The Script Supervisor Department works with all departments on set to ensure that everything that is shot can be used by the Editor when cutting the film back into story continuity. They keep details of every shot, all action, camera details, length in time of shot, and any deviations from script. They provide slate numbers and circled prints. They keep a list of shots and wild sound owed. They provide the Production Office with a Daily Production Report, and they provide the Editor with a lined script that records all shots and a continuity report with the details of each set-up.

To make an application for membership in the Script Supervisor department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Set Construction
The Set Construction Department builds sets, and alters the look of an existing location. This includes fabrication in wood, metal, foam, plastics and similar materials.

To make an application for membership in the Set Construction department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Set Decoration
The Set Decoration Department provides all furnishings, layering in various elements to help tell the story.

To make an application for membership in the Set Decoration department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Sound
The Sound Department records all sound on set; including dialogue, wild lines, wild sounds, roomtone, and more.

To make an application for membership in the Sound department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Special Effects
The Special Effects Department is in charge of any special effects on set such as explosions, fire, rain, atmosphere and smoke.

To make an application for membership in the Special Effects department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A Valid Standard First Aid with CPR & AED Certificate
- A minimum of six months training or equivalent experience, as approved by the department in a minimum of five of the following: Mechanical, Pyrotechnics with an Occasional User Theatrical Artist Pyro Card, Scenic Carpentry, Weapon Handling Firearms Acquisition Certificate, Electric or Electronic Plumbing, Welding.
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)
Transportation
The Transportation Department is responsible to provide, maintain and operate all motor vehicles and trailers associated with a production. The department is responsible for safe operation of all vehicles and for timely movement of all personnel, film, equipment and supplies, as required.

To make an application for membership in the Transportation department, an applicant must provide the following:
- A completed Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Film Industry Orientation course
- A Valid Driver’s License Equivalent to a Nova Scotia, New Brunswick or PEI Class 4 (or better)
- A Recent Driver’s Abstract (An Employer Abstract is all that's needed)
- A Valid Standard First Aid with CPR & AED Certificate
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation using this form from members of the Local 849 department the applicant is applying in. These members should ideally be Keys or Seconds that the applicant has worked with.
- Financial obligations as described below (based on your current standing with the union)

Reinstating After An Honourable Withdrawal

If you wish to reinstate your membership with Local 849 after taking an honourable withdrawal, you must submit a Reinstatement Application. The materials required to submit are detailed above (using the drop-down menu to select specific departments) but you will also have a financial obligation to fulfill, including:

You will need to pay a maximum of 8 quarters of International Per Capita (portion of Quarterly Dues), determined by the date of your honourable withdrawal (if unsuccessful, this amount is refundable)
One-quarter dues deposit (if unsuccessful, this amount is refundable)

These requirements are dictated by the International Constitution and Bylaws and Local 849's Policies. Typically this amount is under $500. To learn the amount owed, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Reinstating After Resigning

If you wish to reinstate your membership with Local 849 after resigning, you must submit a Reinstatement Application. The materials required to submit are detailed above (using the drop-down menu to select specific departments) but you will also have a financial obligation to fulfill, including:

You will need to pay dues for all of the quarters between your date of resignation and the current date (if unsuccessful, this amount is refundable)
One-quarter dues deposit (if unsuccessful, this amount is refundable)

These requirements are dictated by the International Constitution and Bylaws and Local 849's Policies. Depending on the date of resignation, this amount could be thousands of dollars. To learn the amount owed, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Reinstating After Expulsion

If you wish to reinstate your membership with Local 849 after being expelled, you must submit a Reinstatement Application. The materials required to submit are detailed above (using the drop-down menu to select specific departments) but you will also have a financial obligation to fulfill, including:

The amount owed at the time of your expulsion, including any dues or medical premiums (this amount is non-refundable)
You will need to pay dues for all of the quarters between your date of expulsion and the current date (if unsuccessful, this amount is refundable)
One-quarter dues deposit (if unsuccessful, this amount is refundable)

These requirements are dictated by the International Constitution and Bylaws and Local 849's Policies. Depending on the date of expulsion, this amount could be thousands of dollars. To learn the amount owed, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Application Steps

Step 1: Submission of Application

The applicant is required to complete and submit a Reinstatement Application Form, along with all other materials as described above.

Step 2: Confirmation of Experience

Once all forms are received by the office, a check is completed by the office to ensure that the information has been received and all requirements have been met. At this point, a request will be made to the International Office to confirm the required payment and get approval to move forward with the reinstatement process. There may be situations where an applying technician may need a modification of requirements - all modifications must be approved by the Local 849 Executive Board before moving onto the next step.

Step 3: Application Package

Once the applicant's materials have been received and confirmed, a physical application package of paperwork will be sent in the mail. The completed original forms are required to be returned to the Local 849 office. The required items include:

Canada Life RRSP forms
Union Benefits medical plan forms

Additionally, the applicant will be required to make a payment as described above. Payment information will be sent with the application package.

NOTE: The application for membership will not proceed past this point until all completed forms and monies are received by the office.

Step 4: Vote on Application

The membership of Local 849 will vote on each of the applicants through the online member portal. Votes typically occur once per month and are usually sent out on the first Monday of the month. Members of Local 849 typically have three weeks to submit their votes.

Step 5: Follow-up of Vote & Acceptance into the Local

Following the Membership Vote, the office will inform the applicant of the result. Once voted in as a member, and provided all paperwork is in order and all monies have been received, the technician will be reinstated and the International office will be notified of the reinstatement.

Step 6: Swearing-In

The reinstated member should be officially sworn in by a member of Local 849's Executive Board when possible. New, reinstated members are considered full members. They will not be held back from working and are obligated to pay all necessary dues, even if they haven't been sworn in yet.

Retiring from Membership

Once a member reaches the age of 65, they become eligible for retirement. To retire, a member needs to consider what retirement entails:

Active Members can retire from membership at 65 years or older if they are no longer working in the industry.
Retired dues are $5.50 per quarter or $22 per year and have the same due dates as active dues. There is no pre-payment dues discount for retired members.
Members on CPP Disability can retire before 65. Once disability retirement status is approved, there are no further financial obligations to the Local or the International, but they will remain members and have access to the medical plan if desired.
Members who wish to retire must be in good standing.
Retired members remain members of IATSE Local 849 and IATSE International.
Members of more than one IATSE local must retire from all locals by applying to each directly.

Retired Members

Can attend Local 849 General Meetings, but don't have voting rights and cannot participate in Union referendums.
Can no longer hold office in IATSE Local 849.
Still have access to the medical benefits plan if they choose to keep it & pay for it.
Still have access to the Employee and Family Assistance Program.
Still receive a membership card and stamps.

If you wish to apply for retirement, please email the office at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Coming Out of Retirement

Retired members can return to active status only once in a lifetime.
To reinstate to active status, retired members must apply in writing and pay active dues for the quarter in which the status change is made.
Returning retired members retain their original initiation date and must sign onto the RRSP Plan.
When reinstated to full membership, annual dues will revert to $400 per year (or $360 with a discount).

Gold Card Membership

Members who are over 75, who have been a member for 25 years or longer, and who have been retired for at least one quarter and have paid at least one-quarter of retired status dues, can apply for Gold Card status. Gold Card members pay no dues and receive a special membership card. Gold Card members do not receive stamps.

RRSP with CEIRP

Members considering retirement and who have an RRSP account in the Canadian Entertainment Industry Retirement Plan (CEIRP) should contact IATSE Local 849 for plan information and options post-retirement.

Working Outside of the Maritime Provinces

Whether working in another part of Canada, the United States, or even abroad, there are a number of things to be aware of:

The Agreement You Are Working Under

You may be covered under an IATSE Local 849 agreement, but most likely you will be covered by an agreement from the jurisdiction that you will be working in. This decision is often, though not always, based on the location of the "home" production office or where the majority of production will take place. Other jurisdictions may also have multiple agreements in place; be sure to confirm which contract you are covered by, and familiarize yourself with the contract language that affects you.

Who Administers the Agreement?

If no other arrangement has been made, the contract is administered by the signatory local of that agreement. For example, if you're covered by the Local 849 Collective Agreement then we would administer the contract and would advocate on your behalf. If you're working under an agreement from another jurisdiction then the Local in that jurisdiction may represent you and administer the contract.

Your Obligations

As well as notifying the host local that you will be working in their jurisdiction, you must also abide by the rules and laws of that local. Call the Business Agent or other office staff to inform them of your presence and to ask about hiring practices and bylaws. Find the contact information for them by searching the Local Union Directory on the IATSE International website, or by going to the host local's website.

Where Your Dues Go

Working dues are a percentage of your gross wages paid to the local you are being represented by. These working dues are typically considered payment for negotiating the collective agreement on your behalf. In most cases, your working dues will be paid to the local in which you are working. Working Dues are deductible on your income tax return. If you receive a tax slip (T-4) from a payroll company (EP Canada for example) those dues are usually reported in a box.

Fringe Rates

Fringe benefits are paid as a percentage of your wages to cover RRSP contributions and health benefits. If your benefits are being paid to the host local, the staff in that jurisdiction will have the details of the fringe rates and allocation.

Health Benefits Coverage

Your health benefits may be paid to your home local or to the local in whose jurisdiction you are working. The usual arrangement is that your benefits are submitted to the local that is signatory to the agreement you are covered by.

However, all motion picture IATSE Locals, some stage IATSE Locals, and some DGC District Councils within Canada have signed Reciprocal Agreements allowing health benefits to flow back to a member's home local health plan. This allows you to benefit from all hours/benefits accumulated (regardless of where you work). It is important to contact the union you are being represented by to coordinate where your health benefits should go. More information can be found here: https://canada.iatse.net/benefit-flow/

If you feel benefits should be sent to Local 849 in your name and you don’t believe they are being sent, contact the Local 849 office to check and further action may be able to be taken.

The United States

There are currently no reciprocal agreements with locals in the US. You may be able to arrange for your employer to remit the contributions directly to this Plan under another arrangement, but we do not have a formal process.

Membership and Sister Local Status with Other IATSE Locals

Each IATSE Local has its own requirements for membership and sister status and you will have to contact the appropriate local to find out the details.

Paperwork

A valid passport is required for international travel so keep your passport current. Some countries have additional requirements that your passport must not expire within a specific period of your expected return date. Visit Passport Canada for more information.

Most countries have requirements for foreign workers to obtain visas in order to work within the country. As your employer, the production company will be instrumental in obtaining the appropriate documents for you. Be sure to ask what is required and provide production with the necessary personal information in a timely manner to ensure that there are no unnecessary delays or that you don't miss out on work opportunities.

Starting Work on a Production

Congratulations! You’re starting a new job on an IATSE Local 849 production. Here are a couple of notes to be aware of on your first day:

First Steps

You’ve probably been hired as a “daily”. A daily is only guaranteed one day of work. When you are hired as a daily, and you know you will be reporting to set, it is important to ask to be sent the call sheet when it is distributed. If you are a weekly hire, you should already be on the distro. Call sheets are always distributed by email, so if you’re not in the habit of checking emails regularly, now is the time to start. Some positions’ work is not tied to set or the shooting unit, so you may be asked simply to report to a meeting point (studio, lock-up, etc.)

Ask if there are any specific tools or garments you should bring or wear for the day (ie. multitool, rain gear, wrenches, hip waders, drill). Closed-toed/heeled shoes are strongly recommended - sandals, flip-flops or crocs should not be worn on set. If the ask seems excessive, please contact the Local 849 office for advice. If you don’t have what you are asked to bring (a cordless drill, for example) let them know - it’s not usually a major problem. Be sure to pack layers and an extra change of clothes. You never know what will happen with the weather in the Maritimes. When required, you are responsible for providing your own safety footwear and work gloves.

Start Your Day Right

Be sure to give yourself lots of time to get to the location, set, or studio/shop on your first day. You may have to park at crew park and be shuttled to your working location or park a five-minute walk away, which could take more time than you’d think. Even though there is often clear signage leading you to wherever you’ll need to go, be sure to set yourself up for success by arriving early. This gives you time to find your working location, eat breakfast (if provided), and stash your gear. If you’re unsure, ask whoever hired you where you should report to at your call time. This location can vary greatly from department to department, day to day.

Note that many Productions offer a complimentary grab & go breakfast, usually available near set or basecamp, up until call-time for the crew working on and around set. However, this is not a mandatory contractual provision so you should never assume there will be breakfast available wherever you’re reporting to. For that reason, get a good breakfast into you on that first day. Breakfast is rarely available for crew working ‘off-set’.

Even though you may have been asked about food allergies during the onboarding process, don’t assume that info has made its way to either craft service, catering, or your immediate supervisor.

It’s also a good idea to bring along your own bottle of water.

Depending on the Department you are working in, whether you are on or off set, and if it is pre-production or during principal photography, you may or may not have lunch provided. It is always best to ask whoever contacted you to work if breakfast and lunch will be provided so you can prepare to purchase lunch or bring your own.

Start Packs / Deal Memos

Deal memos are important documents. Please read the following information.

When starting a job on a new production, you will be asked to complete a start pack. Items to fill out, provide and/or sign off on may include an IATSE Local 849 deal memo, a Production-specific deal memo, a payroll company ‘start-slip’, proof of residency, tax documents, and any company policies. You must submit these documents promptly to receive pay from production. YOU WILL NOT GET PAID IF YOU DO NOT COMPLETE YOUR START PACK IN A TIMELY MANNER. The usual deadline for submitting your start pack is the Monday after your work week at noon. However, this is not the case with all shows, so make sure you ask production. This ensures that production can process your documents and pay you on the company’s usual pay day. Your paycheck will be for your previous week’s work.

Studios, companies, and employers all have their own sets of policies and procedures. As long as these policies and procedures don't conflict with our Collective Agreement, human rights legislation, WCB regulations, or any other provincial, federal or territorial law, they are entitled to have them.

Residency documentation is necessary for production to receive federal and provincial incentives and may change from production to production. Please contact the payroll accountants if you have any questions regarding residency documents.

No Standard Deal Memo

Carefully read each deal memo. They can vary significantly from production to production. There is almost always a Union (Local 849) Deal Memo and a separate Production Deal Memo.

Even though you may not yet be a member of Local 849, be sure to indicate that you’re working through the Union. Do not select the Non-Union option; there will typically be a spot later for you to indicate that you’re a “Non-Member”.

Take the Time

Employers should know that it could take up to 45 minutes to read and sign a deal memo and they expect you to do that. Depending on the show, we expect that you are doing it on company time and that you are being paid to fulfill that obligation.

Some productions demand that you complete your start-pack on company time, but it is often easier for you to do it at home when you have a few spare moments to gather the required documents. It is also much easier to complete this task on a laptop than on a smartphone.

Most productions are now using ‘digital’ start packs. You should receive an email link to ‘onboard’ to the show. It is not always an easy thing to navigate. Once you have submitted your deal memo, you will get an email that says it is pending, if there is further action required, or if the start park has been approved. Be sure to regularly check your email to ensure that you don’t miss receiving your deal memo or a request for more information.

Take Deal Memos Seriously

If you find yourself facing disciplinary action for breaking company policy, claiming ignorance because you have not read the deal memo or company policies is not an acceptable excuse. Nor is it acceptable to believe a rule does not apply to you because you think it is unreasonable, or you think IATSE Local 849 believes it to be unreasonable. Even if we are successful in overturning any disciplinary action, it may take six months to several years to go through the process, which could have a huge impact on your career and limit your entitlement to work for certain employers during the process.

Getting Paid

Most productions will pay their workers on a weekly basis. This “payday” can differ, from project to project. Some shows will have options for direct deposit, some will deliver cheques on set, and others will mail you cheques if you are not present on payday. If it has been over a week since the designated payday and you have not received payment, please contact the production company. If you have any other issues receiving payment or if the production company does not get back to you in a reasonable amount of time, please contact the Local 849 office.

Licenses and Certificates

Make sure to have your valid trade certificates/licenses with you when you report to work. If you are asked to perform a task that requires a special license or certification (ie. working at heights, driving a vehicle), please be prepared to show a copy of a valid license or certification. Please keep your profile with IATSE Local 849 up-to-date with your licenses and certifications. When you send in certifications and licenses to Local 849, we update the certifications portion of your profile that is visible on the daily hire list.

In some circumstances, you will be asked to upload a copy of a certificate/license when you are filling out your start pack. If you are taking a job that will require you to drive a production vehicle, for example, or on a show that requires vaccinations.

Safety First

If you feel like the work you’ve been tasked to perform is unsafe, it’s your responsibility to speak up. If you have any concerns about safety, please reach out to your Safety Rep or Shop Steward. The set safety rep and shop steward (sometimes called the crew rep) are listed on the first page of the call sheet, usually at the bottom. They can give you guidance on the next steps. If you become injured on the job, it is important to report the incident to your department head, an AD, or safety rep, immediately.

The IATSE Safety App

The IATSE Safety Info App is a tool you can use to report unsafe work conditions. Whether it be safety concerns or harassment, the Safety App is for all safety issues. The app allows you to submit a Hazard Form with your information attached or you can choose to submit a report anonymously. For urgent safety concerns, inform your Safety Rep.

Download the App here:
App Store
Google Play