YNOT – Encouraged by last week’s preemptive move to convince California legislators the adult entertainment industry is dedicated to protecting workers’ health without CalOSHA’s interference, the Free Speech Coalition is moving forward to formalize an industry-wide bloodborne pathogen plan. As part of the process, FSC seeks input about the draft plan from industry insiders.“Once the [bloodborne pathogen plan] is accepted by a majority of industry producers, we can bring the plan back to legislators, confirming that the industry already has highly effective risk-reduction procedures in place, thus negating the need for legislation,” said FSC Executive Director Diane Duke. “Bringing the plan to CalOSHA will provide them with BBP practices for adult production companies — practices that are not only appropriate for the industry, but also highly effective.”
Even before an adult performer tested positive for HIV in June, the FSC’s draft plan was in the works. The effort arose as a response to increased CalOSHA interest in regulating adult productions. Duke said the FSC plan is user-friendly and puts into “OSHA-speak” the already rigorous risk-reduction procedures utilized within the industry. In addition, it specifically cites standard OSHA requirements.
The plan and a comment form are online here. Input is due by Jan. 6.
A variety of industry experts assisted FSC in the plan’s development: Sharon Mitchell of testing facility Adult Industry Medical, Derek Hay of LA Direct Models and LATATA, John Stagliano of Evil Angel, Steven Scarborough of Hot House Entertainment, adult entertainment attorneys Paul Cambria and Jeffrey Douglas, and attorney and OSHA specialist Karen Tynan.
“Too many times our industry is regulated without even having a seat at the table,” Duke said. “This time we are building our own chair.”
