Ensuring International Event Safety
South Korea in the spotlight again
It was only in June that Arinite’s international blog reported on our relationship with South Korea’s health & safety bodies, during which we noted the rise of that country’s economy and cultural contributions to the world.
“A force to be reckoned with”, we said – although the country’s health & safety standards came under international scrutiny last month for all the wrong reasons.
World Scout Jamboree in meltdown
45,000 scouts from across the world (10% of them from the UK) had been expected to attend the World Scout Jamboree in SaeManGeum, South Korea this summer, however poor site selection, weak infrastructure, extreme heat, humidity, and torrential flooding left key parts of the site without power, adequate food, or running water.
Chief Executive of UK Scouts Matt Hyde complained about problems with sanitation, food and medical care.
He also said the heatwave was also a cause for concern, with more than 100 attendees receiving treatment for heat-related illnesses. The UK contingent eventually withdrew from the international event, followed by the US, Singapore, Australia, and some European countries, especially when Typhoon Khanun appeared on the horizon.
Blame it on climate change or not, there are clearly many factors to consider when organising events – whether it be a team building exercise for your work colleagues, a rock concert for tens of thousands, or pilgrimage for millions.
Organising events
Organising outdoor events requires careful planning and attention to safety to ensure the well-being of attendees, staff, and participants. Extreme weather is one of many risks to be assessed, so here are some safety precautions to consider:
Site Inspection and Preparation:
· Conduct a thorough site inspection to identify potential hazards such as uneven terrain, lack of access, poor drainage, lack of shade, sharp objects, low-hanging branches, etc.
· Ensure that the event area is properly cleaned, cleared of debris, and well-maintained.
Emergency Plan:
· Develop a comprehensive emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, assembly points, and communication methods.
· Assign roles and responsibilities to staff members for handling emergencies.
Weather Considerations:
· Monitor weather forecasts leading up to the event and have contingency plans in place for extreme weather conditions.
· Provide shelter or indoor options in case of sudden rain, heatwaves, or cold snaps.
First Aid and Medical Assistance:
· Have a well-stocked first aid kit or room/s on-site and ensure that staff members are trained in basic first aid.
· Coordinate with local medical services to have paramedics or medical professionals on standby if necessary.
Security and Crowd Control:
· Implement a clear plan for managing crowd control and security, especially in large events.
· Use barriers, fences, and signage to guide attendees and prevent unauthorised access to restricted areas.
· Ensure security staff are professionally trained and licensed.
Fire Safety:
· Follow fire safety regulations and guidelines for outdoor events.
· Keep fire extinguishers accessible and make sure staff members know how to use them.
· Keep fire exits clear, whilst protecting from gatecrashers.
Food Safety:
· If you're providing food or beverages, ensure proper handling, storage, and hygiene practices are followed to prevent foodborne illnesses.
· Have designated areas for food preparation and disposal of waste.
Sanitation Facilities:
· Provide clean and adequate toilet facilities for attendees.
· Place hand sanitisers at convenient locations around the event area.
Accessibility:
· Ensure that the event area is accessible to people with disabilities. This includes ramps, clear pathways, and accessible toilet facilities.
Communication:
· Establish clear communication channels for staff and attendees to receive important updates and safety instructions.
· Use announcements, signage, and digital platforms to keep everyone informed.
Traffic Management:
· Plan for parking and traffic flow to prevent congestion and ensure safe entry and exit.
· Consider providing transportation options or promoting carpooling.
Power and Equipment Safety:
· Properly install and secure electrical equipment to prevent tripping hazards and electrical accidents.
· Use outdoor-rated extension cords and equipment to avoid water damage.
Insurance and Permits:
· Obtain the necessary permits and insurance coverage for the event, including liability insurance.
· Ensure compliance with local regulations and ordinances (especially noise and permitted hours).
Training and Staff Briefing:
· Train staff members on safety protocols and their specific roles in case of emergencies.
· Conduct pre-event briefings to ensure everyone is on the same page.
Remember that each event may have unique safety considerations based on factors like location, size, and type. It's essential to conduct a thorough risk assessment and tailor your safety precautions accordingly.
Contact us
Arinite clients worldwide appreciate we provide practical, no-nonsense advice about what you need to do to establish and maintain a safe and healthy working environment.
Our team of health and safety consultants take pride in keeping health and safety simple.
If you need to call upon our expert assistance, or just for an informal chat, please call our
office +44 207 947 9581, or type an enquiry to: https://www.arinite.com/contact-us/.
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