10 Safety Risks at Every Stadium Event: With Control Measures
Stadium events are thrilling spectacles that bring together thousands of fans, from sports enthusiasts to concertgoers. However, for the event safety managers of the world, they are unbelievably complex and require meticulous planning and management to ensure the safety of all attendees.
Large gatherings, structural failures, medical emergencies, fire hazards and weather-related risks are just some of the risks posed to the tens of thousands of event staff and attendees.
And it’s not just the stadium you’ll need to take into account, you will need to profile the audience. As outlined by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), a number of factors can influence how a crowd behaves. For example, the age range of a performer and the type of performance can help you predict behaviour and make appropriate arrangements for it.
Each event has its own nuances depending on the location, the type and size of the venue in question. However, there are a few risks that you will have to look at as a part of your risk assessment, no matter the occasion or other factors.
Top 10 Safety Risks in Stadiums
The top risks at every stadium are as follows:
- Crowd Control and Stampedes.
- Structural Failures.
- Evacuation Procedures.
- Medical Emergencies.
- Fire Hazards.
- Weather-Related Risks.
- Violence and Fights.
- Lost Children and Missing Persons.
- Food Safety.
- Production and Event Equipment.
Crowd Control and Stampedes
One of the most significant risks at stadium events is crowd control. The massive influx of people can lead to overcrowding, particularly at entrances, exits, and concession areas. In worst-case scenarios, overcrowding can result in stampedes, causing severe injuries or fatalities. There have been several high-profile cases covering failures in crowd management and stampedes, such as the tragic 1989 Hillsborough disaster.
Control Measures:
- Designated Entry and Exit Points: Clearly marked and strategically located to manage the movement of people efficiently.
- Staggered Entry Times: Reducing peak crowding by allowing entry at different times.
- Trained Security Personnel: To manage and direct crowds effectively.
- Public Announcements: Using loudspeakers to communicate important information to attendees.
Structural Failures
Stadiums are colossal structures with unique features and layouts depending on the event. They require regular maintenance as structural failures, such as collapsing stands or falling debris, pose a significant risk to spectators. The consequences of which can be catastrophic.
Control Measures
- Regular Inspections: Conduct thorough and frequent inspections of the stadium infrastructure.
- Maintenance Programs: Implement ongoing maintenance schedules to address wear and tear across the premises.
- Emergency Response Plans: Having clear protocols in place for swift evacuation and response in case of structural issues.
Evacuation Procedures
Structural failures and other emergencies will result in the need for evacuation. In these situations, chaotic movement without control can lead to injuries and fatalities when mass panic ensues.
Control Measures
- Clear Evacuation Plans: Having well-documented and rehearsed evacuation procedures.
- Signage and Lighting: Clear signs and adequate lighting to guide attendees to exits.
- Trained Staff: Ensuring all staff and security personnel are familiar with evacuation protocols.
Medical Emergencies
With large crowds at stadium events, there is a very real possibility that someone will have some kind of medical emergency such as hearts attacks, dehydration and physical injuries are just some possibilities. Some of these are directly caused by what happens at events, so you must make the right preparations to manage them.
Control Measures
- First Aid Stations: Strategically located throughout the stadium to provide immediate medical attention.
- Trained Medical Staff: On-site medical teams ready to handle various emergencies.
- Clear Signage: Indicating the locations of first aid stations for anyone who needs it.
Fire Hazards
Fires can start from a number of different sources, including electrical faults, cooking equipment in concession stands, or even discarded cigarettes. We have a further in-depth guide for fire safety workplace hazards on our website.
Control Measures
- Fire Safety Equipment: Ensuring the presence of fire extinguishers, sprinklers, and alarms.
- Regular Drills: Conducting fire drills to prepare staff and security personnel for an emergency.
- No-Smoking Policies: Strictly enforcing no-smoking areas within the stadium.
Weather-Related Risks
Outdoor stadiums and, to a small degree, open-roof stadiums are susceptible to weather-related risks such as lightning, heavy rain, or extreme heat.
Control Measures
- Weather Monitoring Systems: Have a process in place for continuously monitoring weather conditions before and during the event.
- Emergency Shelters: Designated areas where attendees can take shelter in adverse weather.
- Clear Communication: Keeping the crowd informed about weather conditions and safety measures. For example, the Wimbledon tennis tournament has a fantastic weather communication system on a large LED screen for each outdoor court. This indicates the possibility and severity of incoming rain. This keeps event staff and spectators informed.
Violence and Fights
High emotions, alcohol consumption and possible substance abuse can lead to violent altercations among attendees.
Control Measures
- Alcohol Policies: Limiting alcohol sales and consumption within the stadium. Alcohol consumption in the stands of English football grounds and stadium areas with views of the pitch was also banned to curb hooliganism. Tickenham Stadium also trialled alcohol-free zones during the Six Nations rugby tournament.
- Security Presence: Having a visible security presence to deter potential troublemakers.
- Fan Segregation: Implementing separate areas for rival fan groups to minimise conflicts.
Lost Children and Missing Persons
With large crowds, there is a risk of children getting separated from their parents or attendees getting lost, especially where alcohol is involved.
Control Measures
- Designated Meeting Points: Clearly marked areas where separated individuals can reunite.
- Identification Wristbands: For children, providing wristbands with contact information.
- Public Announcements: Using the stadium’s public announcement system to quickly notify about missing persons.
Food Safety
Foodborne illnesses can happen if food is not prepared, stored or served correctly at venue concession stands.
Control Measures
- Hygiene Standards: Enforcing strict hygiene and food safety standards for all vendors.
- Regular Inspections: Conducting frequent inspections of food preparation areas.
- Staff Training: Ensuring that all food handlers are trained in proper food safety practices.
Production and Event Equipment
The use of heavy and complex event and production equipment, such as stages, lighting rigs, and sound systems, can pose significant risks if not properly managed. Equipment failure or improper setup can lead to accidents, injuries, or even fatalities.
Control Measures
- Professional Setup: Ensuring that all equipment is set up and operated by trained and certified professionals.
- Regular Inspections: Conducting thorough inspections of all equipment before and during events to identify and address potential issues.
- Safety Barriers: Barriers should be installed to keep attendees at a safe distance from potentially dangerous equipment.
Training for Stadium Health and Safety Managers
By identifying and addressing these safety risks, event organisers can create a safer environment that allows fans to enjoy the event without undue worry. Continuous improvement and adherence to best practices in health and safety are vital for the success of any stadium event. This starts with a fundamental grasp of health and safety processes that can be acquired through the NEBOSH General Certificate, linked below. This fundamental understanding can then be further developed through our NEBOSH Level 6 Diploma.
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