Assist with costumes on set
URN: SKSQ10
Business Sectors (Suites): Costume for Film, TV and Theatre Productions
Developed by: ScreenSkills
Approved on:
30 Mar 2021
Overview
This standard is about your ability to support and assist with continuity.
This may involve carrying out standby assistance with costumes whilst a shoot is taking place, following on-set etiquette, assembling a suitable working kit and helping to organise the costumes.
This standard may be applicable to costume supervisors, costume assistants, costume stand by, wardrobe assistants and costume makers.
Performance criteria
You must be able to:
- check and confirm the production requirements including the running order, call sheets and schedule
- locate costumes and ensure they are correctly placed for easy access for the performers
- assemble an effective working kit
- identify the location, expected weather and appropriate workwear such as waterproofs, keep-warms
- assist with clothing and accessories for performers on standby
- follow on-set etiquette including rules on the use of mobile phones or other modes of communication
- ensure there is a convenient area dedicated to costume change
- assist with dressing performers and advise on how to put on and wear costumes
- liaise with other departments that may impact on costume such as hair & make up
- position special effects, radio microphones discreetly and securely
- observe costume detail and continuity and correct costumes where necessary
- monitor the costumes for damage and if possible fix costumes discreetly when required
- monitor the costume 'look' and adjust discreetly when required
- carry out last-minute alterations and repairs and identify garments that require complex repairs or specialist treatment
- manage and record distribution and collection of accessories
- work as a team with other departments
- follow the productions confidentiality rules
- communicate effectively across production staff and other relevant departments or individuals
- follow health, safety and environmental legislation, policies and guidelines
Knowledge and Understanding
You need to know and understand:
- the production schedule / sequence / running order / call sheets
- the items required within an effective working kit
- required etiquette when working on-set
- how to position special effect, radio microphones
- the impact of other departments on costume i.e. hair and make-up, stunt, sound
- rules in relation to the use of mobile phones or other modes of communication
- how to access weather forecasts when on location and choose appropriate
- clothing and accessories for performers on standby
- basic repair and alteration techniques
- how to put on and wear costumes and how to communicate this to others
- awareness of the consequences of interruptions during a shoot
- the productions confidentially rules and clauses
- production staff and departments involved and the communication protocol
- statutory responsibilities under health, safety, COSHH and environmental legislation
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
SKSQ24
Relevant Occupations
Arts, Media and Publishing, Associate Professionals and Technical Occupations, Crafts, Creative Arts and Design, Media and Communication, Media Associate Professionals, Performing Arts
SOC Code
3422
Keywords
costume; wardrobe; assist; on set; standby; shoot; etiquette; working kit; organise; repairs; alterations; continuity; keep-warms; clothing; hats; gloves; accessories; record; jewellery; performers