Every event requires a lot of preliminary work for it to be a success and to have no problems, especially with people's safety. In the organisation of concerts, conferences, exhibitions, corporate and sporting events amongst others, there are a lot of people under our responsibility and security is an essential and required issue.

Whether it's a big or smaller event, the maximum security has to be taken into account to prevent any serious incident. For this reason, everyone involved, from the organizers to the guests, need to be informed, coordinated and protected.

ISSUES TO CONSIDER IN A SAFETY PLAN

1. Having a security professionals team 

The team has to handle the strategy, logistics and the staff in a versatile way, adjusting themselves to each event and the different public.

2. Identify and assess a threat.

Analyse all the conditions surrounding the event, assess potential risks and analyse the information to develop a security plan to face special situations in the best possible way.

When we talk about security, we mean to take into account geographical, terrorists, criminals, physical or sanitary aspects. Some threats could be:
 

• Conflict zones where the event takes place
• Difficult accesses
• Lack of light
• Structures without alarm or fire systems
• Wrong located or scarce emergency exits
• Rain and strong storms, floods, earthquakes, etc.
• Kidnapping, assault, murder, etc.
• Contamination, contagion, etc.
• Attacks, bombs, etc.
• Fire, outgassing, etc.
• Event staff’s accidents

3. Information and training

The need to report what they have to do and how they have to do it is fundamental, so courses are very useful to all personnel involved in the event about safety management in shows.

In case of a small or serious problem, it is very important that all the staff knows who to contact and call during the event. Communication is critical and must be addressed in one direction.

4. Crowd control

First of all, it is essential to have a sufficient number of volunteers or employees to assist in crowd control or solve a mass riot. In addition, they need to have good information and training as we have mentioned in the previous point.

Secondly, continuous movement, separation and dispersion are keys to a successful crowd control. It is necessary to place safety signs and security staff in the most vulnerable areas for agglomerations and lead the guests. Entrances and exits must be clearly indicated, unobstructed and readily available. Clear signage should guide people for a quick escape.

5. Contingency plans and evacuation

The crowd control plan can be affected by various circumstances, in which case flexible contingency plans should be implemented and act quickly. The contingency plan proposes some alternative operating procedures, due to an internal or external contingency.

No matter how big the event is, the safety of your guests and your workers is vitally important. Planning and preparation will ensure the success and fun for the people involved.