Good event security is mostly planning. The safest events are the ones where the roles, routes and decisions were agreed well before the gates opened. Use this checklist with your security supplier, the venue and the local authority.
Start With A Risk Assessment
List what could go wrong, how likely it is and what you will do about it. Cover crowding, weather, alcohol, queues, vehicles, medical incidents, fire and the possibility of a security threat. Update the assessment if the event changes.
Know Your Numbers
Agree the capacity, the expected attendance, the peak arrival and departure times and how people will travel. These decide how many entrances you need and how many officers and stewards to deploy.
Agree Roles And Chain Of Command
Decide who is in charge, who the supervisors are and how decisions are passed on. Set up an event control point, a radio plan and an incident log.
Plan Access, Searches And Queues
Decide what is allowed in, what is searched and how. Provide enough lanes and signage so searches are thorough and queues stay safe. Publish the entry conditions before the day so guests know what to expect.
Staff The Event Properly
Use licensed officers where the role requires it, agree the briefings, and plan breaks so the team stays alert. Read our guide on checking SIA licences. Our event and stadium security teams are briefed before every event.
Plan For Accessibility And Welfare
Provide accessible routes, seating and assistance, and a clear place for lost children, first aid and welfare. Brief stewards on how to help guests who need support.
Prepare Emergency And Evacuation Plans
Mark exits, muster points and steward positions. Agree how you will communicate, how you will stop the event if needed, and how you will work with the police, the ambulance service and the fire service. For larger events the local authority's Safety Advisory Group is a valuable place to test the plan.
Learn From The Event
Hold a debrief, review the incident log and note what to change next time. For examples of how our teams work at major events, see our Wembley Stadium case study. If your venue or event may fall under Martyn's Law, plan for that too.