Fire Safety at Events
Estimated reading time: 3 minutes
Fire Safety at Events
Events of various sizes and types often feature many people, temporary setups, vehicles and food service operations. These elements can increase the risk of fire, making fire safety a crucial aspect of event organisation. Fire safety at events involves conducting fire risk assessments, adopting preventive actions and establishing response plans to minimise fire-related dangers. Moreover, fire safety at events is essential not only for legal compliance but also to protect staff, attendees and the event venue.
Gaining an understanding of the legal framework for fire safety at events is vital. The Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005 sets out the fire safety regulations. This law mandates that event organisers appoint a ‘responsible person(s)’ tasked with performing fire risk assessments and implementing required fire safety protocols to protect all areas of the event.
This article looks at key aspects of fire safety at events, emphasising the importance of fire risk assessments. This process entails identifying potential fire sources and those at risk, evaluating the chances of a fire occurring and its potential effects on attendees. We also discuss various fire safety actions, such as ensuring the availability of fire extinguishers, keeping evacuation paths clear, using fire-resistant materials and offering fire safety training to staff. These steps help event organisers create a safer environment for everyone involved.
Risk Assessment for Fire Safety at Events
Conducting a fire safety risk assessment is a critical step in ensuring fire safety at events. It involves analysing the event’s scale, location, activities and attendee demographics to pinpoint fire risks, assess the associated dangers and devise strategies to reduce or eliminate these risks. Engaging a professional for the risk assessment can be advantageous.
The assessment process includes:
1. Identify Fire Hazards, including:
- Ignition sources (e.g., electrical devices, pyrotechnics)
- Fuel sources (e.g. waste, props and gas supplies)
- Oxygen sources
2. Identifying People at Risk:
- Participants (including those more vulnerable)
- Employees and performers
- Nearby individuals
3. Evaluating Risks and Determining Precautions:
- Estimating the likelihood and potential impact of a fire
- Implementing essential fire safety measures (e.g. fire safety equipment, fire detection and alarm systems, emergency lighting and escape routes)
4. Documentation, Planning and Training:
- Recording findings and measures taken
- Creating an emergency plan
- Providing fire safety training to staff and volunteers
5. Review:
- Reassessing the fire risk assessment
Preventive Measures for Fire Safety at Events
Effective preventive strategies are key to fire safety at events, including:
- Installing fire alarm systems and automated detection devices like smoke and heat sensors to quickly alert attendees to fires.
- Utilising fire suppression tools, such as sprinklers and extinguishers suitable for specific hazards, ensuring they are accessible and functional.
- Maintaining clear signage, evacuation routes and assembly points.
- Ensuring easy access to fire exits and having enough trained fire wardens relative to the event size.
- Keeping ignition and fuel sources apart.
- Conducting regular maintenance and safety checks on electrical equipment.
- Using fire-retardant materials for decorations, curtains and temporary structures.
Comprehending legal responsibilities, performing thorough fire risk assessments, implementing preventive measures and preparing for emergency responses are crucial for fire safety at events. Integrating these practices into your event planning is essential for the well-being of all attendees and the venue.
Enhance your event’s fire safety protocols with our IFE-approved and CPD-accredited online Fire Marshal/Warden Course for staff, or opt for our customisable face-to-face Fire Marshal/Warden Courses, tailored specifically to your venue, to ensure the safety of your guests and staff.
Alternatively, if you would like additional information about your fire training requirements, you can get in touch with our friendly customer service team by calling us on 01327 552160, emailing us at hello@smarthorizons.co.uk, getting in touch via live chat or filling in our web contact form.