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:
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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 Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Set Etiquette 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 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)
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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
- 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
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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
- A Valid Provincial Hair Licence
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Reinstatement Application Form
- Updated Resume
- A valid WHMIS Certificate
- Valid Make-Up Certificate or Diploma from a recognized Makeup School OR provide a portfolio of your work and a 300 word summary of your experience and self-directed study
- Completed a practical exam organized by the Local 849 Makeup Department with a passing mark of 150 out of 200.
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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 -
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
- 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)
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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 Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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)
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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
- A Valid Standard First Aid with CPR & AED Certificate
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- 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 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)
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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
- A Valid Driver’s License Equivalent to a Nova Scotia 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
- Proof of having taken a recognized Set Etiquette Course
- A valid piece of Photo ID
- Health card from one of the three Maritime Provinces
- Two letters of recommendation 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.
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.