skip to main content

Safety Advice for Musicians Taking Part in Recording Sessions

We’ve published some studio safety advice for recording session musicians taking part in recording sessions during Covid-19.

Published: 26 May 2020 | 12:00 AM Updated: 28 April 2021 | 4:30 PM
Photograph of a recording studio panel with an unattended microphone resting on it.
It’s likely that re-opened recording studios will present quite different working environments than they did the last time musicians inhabited them. Photo credit: Shutterstock

With the Government announcing a gradual reduction of lockdown conditions, it is likely that recording studios will soon be open for business again. Whilst this is welcome news for the music economy and for the livelihoods of many of our members, it does present some significant health and safety concerns.

It’s likely that re-opened recording studios will present quite different working environments than they did the last time musicians inhabited them, so we’ve collated some advice for members on the safety measures that should be in place to protect them from infection, and the new procedures they might be asked to adhere to under current Government guidance to keep everyone within the studio environment safe.

We have also provided essential advice on safe travel to and from the studio, food, hygiene, studio layouts and insurance.

We hope the advice will prepare members for expected new ways of working and enable them to make an informed decision on whether they feel safe to return to the studio yet.

Read our guidance on attending recording sessions during the outbreak.

Get MU membership today

From gig players to part-time teachers and professional instrumentalists, MU members can access specialist insurance for musicians. This includes Public Liability, Instrument and Equipment Insurance, Accident Insurance, Tax Investigation Insurance, and Professional Indemnity Insurance for music teachers.

Explore our member services

  • Get public liability insurance for musicians
  • Access expert legal support
  • Be represented in your profession
  • Access expert career advice, resources, and training events
  • Connect, network, and get to know the community of musicians

Learn about all membership benefits

Get MU membership today

Continue reading

Portrait of Jeff, smiling in a blue shirt.

Tribute to Jeffrey Raymond Wakefield

An accomplished professional violinist, Jeff Wakefield enjoyed a distinguished orchestral career and took great pride in his lifelong association with the Musicians' Union, of which he became a member in 1952. This tribute was written by his son-in-law, David Marcou.

Published: 14 August 2026

Read more about Tribute to Jeffrey Raymond Wakefield
Young Black musician, wearing headphones, In the foreground is a recording mic and pop shield.

Meet the MU at PITCH Scotland 2026

Meet the MU’s Sam Jordan and Louise Stanners Pow at this year’s hip hop conference and festival, and learn more about copyright, sampling, ownership and collaboration.

Published: 13 August 2026

Read more about Meet the MU at PITCH Scotland 2026
Martin, sat at the table of a formal dinner, dressed in a suit, smiling.

Tribute to Martin Bowen

Martin Bowen enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a professional bassoonist and was deeply committed to the Musicians' Union. After joining in 1973, he served with dedication as an MU Steward for BBC NOW. This tribute has been written by his brother-in-law, John.

Published: 06 August 2026

Read more about Tribute to Martin Bowen