Prepare to change the performer’s appearance

URN: SKSHWMP5
Business Sectors (Suites): Hair, Wigs, Make Up and Prosthetics for Productions
Developed by: ScreenSkills
Approved on: 30 Mar 2021

Overview

​This standard outlines the preparation methods undertaken to alter the performer's appearance safely, hygienically and in accordance with the requirements of the production.

It is about your ability to organise and arrange workstations, materials, and equipment for easy access by all users. It involves ensuring that workstations are hygienic and tidy and that you use materials and equipment safely.

It also involves advising performers of any possible discomfort that the change of appearance may cause.

This standard is applicable to all roles but is most applicable to the role of hair and make-up supervisors or assistants.


Performance criteria

You must be able to:

  1. ​clarify and agree the design requirements and schedule from the brief with the relevant person 

  2. prepare and organise workstations, materials, equipment and kit bags

  3. report any issues with workstations, materials, equipment and kit bags to the relevant people and seek solutions
  4. maintain personal hygiene to avoid transmitting infection to performers
  5. keep workstation materials and equipment fully stocked, tidy and hygienic throughout the production
  6. monitor supplies of stock and liaise with the appropriate people to have stock replenished or purchase identified supplies as necessary
  7. clean hair, wigs, make-up and prosthetic materials using approved cleaning supplies and methods
  8. label materials and containers with information for safe use
  9. handle, store and dispose of hair, wigs, make-up and prosthetic materials, tools, equipment and hazardous substance in a safe and hygienic manner
  10. recognise infectious or contagious skin and/ or hair conditions that could contaminate materials and equipment
  11. report any skin or hair conditions to the appropriate personnel in a timely and professional manner
  12. check and prepare to cover any body piercings or tattoos if required
  13. follow procedures to deal with contamination of hair, wigs, make-up and prosthetics materials and equipment to avoid passing on infection to any performer
  14. advise the performer about any potential adverse reactions or discomfort that could be caused by make-up and/or hair processes and the steps that will be taken to minimise the risk
  15. follow health and safety legislation, policies and guidelines at all times

Knowledge and Understanding

You need to know and understand:

  1. ​the materials and equipment required for hair, wigs, make-up and prosthetics workstations on set and on location
  2. how to prepare and organise workstations, materials, and equipment for easy access for all users
  3. who to liaise with regarding the logistical requirements of working at the location, including identifying running water, light and access
  4. where and how to obtain hair, wigs, make-up and prosthetics materials and equipment
  5. how to keep appropriate stock records and monitor supplies
  6. how to check stock quantities including condition and how to replenish stock within budget

  7. how to complete a purchase order form and the relevant personnel to liaise with for necessary signatures

  8. the types of products available to you and their individual uses
  9. the design requirements as communicated to you by the relevant person(s)
  10. the time constraints of the production schedule
  11. the correct sequence and technique for hair, wigs, make-up or prosthetics application
  12. hygiene and cleaning requirements for hair, wigs, make-up or prosthetic materials and equipment
  13. personal hygiene requirements to ensure the comfort and safety of the performers
  14. how to identify and avoid potential infections and adverse reaction on hair and/or skin
  15. who to report any skin or hair conditions to
  16. the appropriate action to take in the event of infections, adverse reactions and personal discomfort for the performer
  17. the safe and hygienic methods to store, handle and dispose of hair, wigs, make-up or prosthetic equipment, tools, and hazardous substances
  18. how to cover tattoos and body piercings using appropriate methods, kit, and techniques 
  19. how to explain hair and/or make-up procedures to performers
  20. how to prepare specific kits and equipment for different locations
  21. understand the needs of the Hair and Make-Up department when working on location and the appropriate personnel to liaise with
  22. health and safety legislation, policies, and guidelines applicable to hair and make-up equipment and hazardous substances

Scope/range


Scope Performance


Scope Knowledge


Values


Behaviours


Skills


Glossary


Links To Other NOS


External Links


Version Number

3

Indicative Review Date

30 Mar 2026

Validity

Current

Status

Original

Originating Organisation

ScreenSkills

Original URN

SKSHM1

Relevant Occupations

Arts, Media and Publishing, Crafts, Creative Arts and Design, Hairdressers and Related Occupations, Media and Communication, Performing Arts, Personal Service Occupations

SOC Code

6221

Keywords

hair, wigs, prosthetics, make-up, performer, hair and make-up supervisor, hair and make-up assistant, adverse reactions, supplies, health and safety, hygiene