Planning Event Safety

Evaluating any Risks

Go through a list of the attractions and activities that make up the event. Identify all the possible hazards that could occur and make a short written assessment.

Remember that any materials, structures or machinery will add risk to the event. Look out for, for example, trailing cables, ladders, water features, gas and other fuel containers.

If the event is going to include any of the following attractions or activities then you should definitely have a written assessment:

• Karting and fairground equipment
• Stands or stalls (especially those involving weapons, guns, darts and so on)
• Bouncy castles and children's amusement rides
• Bungee jumping, hot-air ballooning and helicopter rides
• Displays and parades involving animals, vehicles, weapons, flames, special effects, parachuting

Each will have its own special hazards that you should identify so that comprehensive safety precautions can be prepared.

Entertainment such as laser or fireworks displays, concerts, performances and dancing, will present hazards that require specialised guidance.

When you have listed the possible hazards of each activity:

• decide how you will reduce the risks in each case and the precautions you intend to take
• ask anyone supplying or operating attractions, activities or equipment to provide you with their own written assessments and include these with yours.

Make sure your you consider the following when listing the hazards:

• older people
• people with disabilities
• children (who may be unsupervised)
• excitement generated by the activity
• approximate number of people expected

The completed assessments will form the safety manual for the event. This is evidence that you and your fellow organisers have taken all reasonable precautions for a safe event. Your visitors and guests will enjoy a safe environment and you and your organisers will have protection in law should the unthinkable happen.