Harold Ramis directed “Safety Training,” the 20th episode of the third season of the American version of “The Office.” The episode aired in 2007 and centers on Michael Scott’s disastrous attempt to prove that his job is more dangerous than warehouse work.
When warehouse employee Darryl claims that the warehouse is unsafe, Michael responds by staging increasingly alarming demonstrations from the roof. His behavior escalates into a fake suicide threat, forcing the office staff to confront the emotional consequences of his need for attention. The episode also features Dwight’s temporary shunning of Andy and the famous watermelon stunt.
Ramis was already known for directing and starring in influential comedies such as “Groundhog Day,” “Caddyshack,” and “Ghostbusters,” in which he played Egon Spengler. “Safety Training” was his second directing assignment for “The Office”; he had previously directed “A Benihana Christmas” earlier in season 3.