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The Importance of Event Safety Services Management for Large and Small Events in Ireland

By May 31, 2023 No Comments

The Importance of Event Safety Services Management for Large and Small Events in Ireland

When it comes to organising an event, whether it’s a corporate conference, a music festival, or a sporting event, one crucial aspect that should never be overlooked is event safety. Ensuring the well-being of attendees, staff, and participants is paramount for a successful and memorable event. This is where professional event safety services management comes into play.

Events are a workplace for some and a leisure activity for others and range from family days in the local park to musical events, festivals, firework displays, carnivals, sporting events, street parades, exhibitions etc. Negligence on the part of the owner of the premises and/or the organiser of the event can result in injury to either workers or patrons. Organisers have a common law duty of care toward persons involved with the event – including the audience, performers, suppliers and event staff.

In addition to the common law ‘duty of care’ owed to those attending the event there are a number of key pieces of legislation, which are applicable to events.

The most relevant Irish legislation include: 

  • The Safety, Health and Welfare at Works Acts of 2005 and associated regulations 
  • Part XVI Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and the Planning and Development Regulations 2015 
  • Fire Services Act 1981 and 2003 (responsibility for fire safety on persons in control of premises) 
  • Waste Management Acts, 1996 and 2001 
  • Health and Welfare at Work (General Applications) Regulations 2007 to 2016 
  • Health and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2013 (S.I. No. 291 of 2013)

The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Acts of 2005 and associated regulations (e.g. Construction Regulations, General Application Regulations) applies directly to employers, employees, contractors and anyone who is affected by a work activity (member of the public, passer-by, trespassers). An event organiser should satisfy him or herself that their work activities are safe and do not endanger their employees, contractors, the general public or anyone affected by those activities.

In the case of contractors or others working on the employer’s behalf, the employer must satisfy himself or herself that those employers also manage their work so it does not endanger anyone else. This would include the event organiser satisfying themselves that all workers (i.e. other employers) have safety statements and risk assessments.

Relevant codes of practice include COP for the management of fire in places of assembly, European standards such as IS 3217 2013 + A1: 2017, IS 3218:2013 +A1 2019, IS 291:2015, and event industry international best practice guidelines. What has carried the most weight of late is the impact of reports and their findings, such as the Manchester Arena Bombing reports and the latest court cases and report on the Hillsborough Stadium Disaster final report, some 20 years after the event and the subsequent charges that were brought in 2019.

 

In this blog post, we will explore the vital role that Salutem Advisory and Training plays in creating a secure and enjoyable environment for everyone involved.

Mitigating Risks and Hazards:

Events, by their very nature, involve a multitude of moving parts, from large crowds to complex infrastructure. Salutem Advisory and Training employs a systematic approach to identify potential risks and hazards, mitigating them effectively. Our professional event safety managers assess the venue, evaluate emergency evacuation procedures, and implement protocols to minimise the likelihood of accidents, injuries, or any other undesirable incidents.

Expertise in Crowd Management:

Crowd control is a critical aspect of event safety that requires careful planning and execution. Salutem Advisory and Training professionals possess the expertise to handle large crowds, ensuring order, security, and smooth flow throughout the event. By implementing crowd management strategies, such as designated entry and exit points, properly trained security personnel, and effective communication systems, we create an environment that promotes safety and minimises the risk of crowd-related incidents.

Emergency Preparedness:

Even with the best-laid plans, emergencies can still occur. Salutem Advisory and Training focuses on preparing for such unforeseen circumstances, ensuring a prompt and efficient response. We establish clear emergency protocols, train staff on emergency procedures, and coordinate with local authorities and emergency services. By having a well-prepared and practised response plan in place, event organisers can quickly and effectively manage any emergencies, minimising potential harm and providing attendees with peace of mind.

Compliance with Irish Regulations:

Events are subject to various safety regulations and guidelines imposed by local authorities, industry standards, and insurance requirements. Salutem Advisory and Training professionals stay up-to-date with these regulations and ensure that the event is fully compliant. We understand the legal implications of non-compliance and work diligently to meet all safety standards, reducing liability risks for event organisers.

Enhancing Reputation and Attendee Experience for the Event:

Safety is a paramount concern for attendees when deciding to participate in an event. By investing in Salutem Advisory and Training’s event safety services, organisers send a clear message that they prioritise the well-being of their attendees. This, in turn, enhances the reputation of the event and the organisers themselves. When attendees feel safe and secure, they can fully enjoy the experience, leading to positive word-of-mouth, increased attendance in subsequent events, and a strengthened brand image.

In the world of event planning, ensuring the safety of all participants is not just an ethical responsibility but also a critical factor for success. Salutem Advisory and Training brings the expertise, experience, and meticulous planning necessary to create a secure and enjoyable environment for everyone involved. By prioritising event safety, organisers can deliver unforgettable experiences while mitigating risks, complying with regulations, and safeguarding their reputation. Don’t compromise on safety—choose Salutem Advisory and Training for event safety services and training, and guarantee a remarkable and incident-free event.

For anyone unfamiliar with events and their safety measures, it can be a daunting task to even begin to plan holding an event.

At Salutem, we are here to assist you in achieving your desired event in a safe and practical manner. Every event is unique and is assessed and planned individually to meet your specific requirements.