INDUSTRY EXPERTS PUBLISH GUIDE ON CROWD SAFETY
A collaborative effort among UK industry experts has resulted in the publication of a comprehensive guide on crowd safety titled Safer Crowds, Safer Venues. This innovative framework aims to provide guidance on welfare and security measures specifically tailored for venues with a capacity of under 5,000.
In response to recent incidents of crowd surges causing injury and loss of life, the document offers crowd management guidance for a wide range of indoor venues, including concert venues, theatres, nightclubs, pubs, bars, and restaurants.
While not intended as official regulatory guidance, the framework seeks to assist small to medium-sized venues in enhancing safety and security measures for both employees and attendees. It covers various event challenges such as planning, staffing, counter-terrorism, safeguarding, medical assistance, and weather preparedness.
The initiative, led by the UK Crowd Management Association, Night Time Industries Association (NTIA), and Live Music Industry Venues & Entertainment, fills a crucial gap by providing a dedicated framework for crowd management where none existed before.
Anne Marie Chebib of the UK Crowd Management Association emphasized the urgent need for standardized and effective crowd management practices in light of recent tragic incidents.
Recent years have seen an increase in accidents caused by crowd surges, including the highly publicized ASTROWORLD concert tragedy. In the UK, incidents like the crowd crush at a show in O2 Academy Brixton and others underscore the importance of proactive measures to prevent such tragedies.
Michael Kill, CEO of NTIA, highlighted the significance of the framework in not only raising the bar in crowd management but also supporting businesses that may not have prioritized crowd safety in the past.
The Safer Crowds, Safer Venues framework serves as a valuable resource for venue operators and event organizers, offering practical guidance to ensure the safety and well-being of all attendees.
Access the framework here to learn more and implement best practices in crowd management.
