Floor Manage

Television floor manager

:Job description

Television floor managers make sure that sets, props and technical equipment are safe, ready to use and in the right position prior to filming.

They have a liaising and coordinating role, acting as the link between the director and the many people involved in a production on the studio floor.

It is the floor manager's responsibility to pass on cues to presenters and guests to ensure timings are met and the broadcast goes smoothly.

They make sure that events go according to a set plan and that people taking part know their particular roles and how it fits in with whatever else is happening.

The work is mainly studio-based, but may also include outside broadcasts, depending on the production.

Typical work activities

Duties carried out by a television floor manager include:

• checking that equipment, e.g. microphones and earpieces, are working before the show;
• seating the audience (if in attendance);
• referring to floor plans;
• assisting guests on the show;
• relaying instructions from the control room to the studio floor using a talk back system;
• keeping the director and producer informed of action off-camera;
• assisting in the planning and preparation of productions;
• overseeing the work of other departments, such as sound, lighting and props;
• rehearsing live shows;
• giving cues and time counts to presenters, actors or guests;
• organising runners to make the best use of studio time;
• looking ahead in the programme schedule to anticipate any changes to the set, or to see what props are required later in the show;
• briefing and looking after those involved in the program.
• managing the audience, e.g. explaining safety requirements, show timings and what will happen during filming and when the program will be aired;
• dealing with any technical problems;
• controlling the studio and halting production if necessary;
• liaising with public relations staff to agree who will be interviewed, for example at sports matches;
• passing information and progress reports from live events to studio presenters;
• adhering to health and safety regulations, e.g. keeping 'safe areas' and fire exits clear of equipment.