Introduction to Union Compliance: SAG, DGA, WGA, IATSE Rules and Requirements

Learn from Krutin Patel, former Sr. Manager of Production who spent nearly a decade at HBO and MAX!

If you’re looking to bring your film or TV project to life, understanding unions and how to work with them is essential. With a long history in Hollywood, unions like the DGA, SAG, WGA, IATSE, and Teamsters protect workers’ rights and set standards in an industry known for grueling hours, unpredictable locations, and high-pressure environments. As a producer, having a basic grasp of union contracts and requirements will not only keep your production running smoothly but also shield you from potential fines, grievances, or even work stoppages.

But let’s be honest—navigating union rules can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’ve found yourself asking, “Who can hire union workers?” or “What happens if I don’t file the right documents on time?” It’s not just about knowing who falls under each union’s jurisdiction, like directors for the DGA or drivers for the Teamsters. You also have to understand things like the tiers of SAG contracts or why IATSE compliance is critical. This course will help you break down those intimidating barriers, showing you exactly which documents you need before, during, and after production, and the consequences of missing a single detail.

You’ll be learning from Krutin Patel, whose nearly decade-long career at HBO/MAX as a Senior Manager of Production makes him an authority on this topic. Krutin managed a wide range of content from dramas and comedies to features and kids' programming, working alongside industry giants like A24, Lionsgate, and Universal TV. His hands-on experience with multiple unions and their complex requirements will provide you with insider knowledge you won’t find anywhere else, making him the perfect guide to teach you how to work effectively with unions.

In this webinar, Krutin will walk you through the purpose of unions and how they protect not just workers but you as a producer. You’ll learn who can hire union workers, the key documents required, and who is responsible for completing and submitting them. We’ll cover each major union—DGA, SAG, WGA, IATSE, and Teamsters—and explain their jurisdiction, contracts, and compliance requirements. By the end of the session, you’ll have a clear understanding of union processes, the timelines for submitting documents, and how to remain in full compliance, setting you up for success on your next production.

PLUS! You'll receive this exclusive download:

• The ultimate Union resource cheat sheet