Safety film refers to photographic film that has a base made from non-flammable materials, typically cellulose acetate, rather than the highly flammable nitrate-based films used in early photography and cinema. This makes it much safer to handle, store, and transport, reducing the risk of fire in darkrooms, archives, or projection rooms.
Safety film became the standard in both still photography and motion pictures, providing a reliable and durable medium for capturing and preserving images. Its introduction allowed photographers and filmmakers to work more safely without compromising image quality or archival stability.