Never Touch gear not in your department 

On union sets this can get you instantly fired, but on non-union sets the rules are a little more relaxed. However, as a good rule of thumb you should never touch other department’s equipment without their permission. 
 

Never Stand in front of a light or camera for no reason, or for an extended period of time. 

Just as you’re trying to work, so is the DP and lighting crew. If you’re blocking a light or camera, you’re holding up their job. So just don’t do it. Stand somewhere else. 

Never Stand in front of a doorway 

This might seem obvious, but so many PAs can get distracted and end up standing right in front of a doorway. I’ve even been guilty of this before. Nobody appreciates it, so again, find somewhere else to stand. 

Never Say the word “cut” on the walkie 

If you think you heard “cut” on the walkie but aren’t sure, do not say “did we cut” instead ask “are we rolling?” The reason is because someone else might mishear you and think we’ve cut while we are actually still rolling. And tada you’ve ruined a take. So never do that.

Never Talk on the walkie when we’re rolling 

Unless it is an emergency, or it’s critical for this exact shot, you shouldn’t be talking on the walkie AT ALL while the cameras are rolling. Whether or not you’re physically on the set. Reason being, it’s loud and annoying in the ears of people who are on the set and it could be heard on camera or by the actors. So it’s a big no no. People get mad. 

Never Chime in with advice for other departments 

If you’re setting up lunch, it’s perfectly acceptable for you to chime in about what the setup should look like. That’s your department. However, it is absolutely not acceptable for you to chime in with framing advice for the DP. Or with suggestions for the art director on what painting they should hang. That’s not your department, so keep your thoughts to yourself unless your opinion is specifically asked for. 

Never Wear sandals 

I feel like I shouldn’t have to explain this. Just no. Even if you’re shooting at a beach. No. Absolutely not.