With all of the excitement that comes with being an event planner, it is easy to forget that the job involves certain risks. Generally, they are quite small. There may be problems with the catering. The venue might double book the day of your event. The sound guys could be late with the audio equipment.
These are common issues for event planners, and skilled professionals know how to handle them. Yet, what about bigger threats? How concerned should a concert manager or a fashion show producer be about intruders who might intend to cause harm to guests or artists? Just how big a priority should security be for modern day event planners?
Keep reading to find out about the key issues involved with event security and why it should be a big deal for an event management group.
The Promise of Safety
While there are dangers out there – attacks on music concerts and other events are more common now – they are still statistically rare. In fact, the chance of an event being targeted is extremely small, but it does not mean that security is not necessary.
Besides being able to identify and prevent problems quickly, it allows you to provide another essential function; making your guests feel safe. Just knowing that there is security personnel or a first response team on site encourages people to relax, have more fun, and take more pleasure in a party, dinner, conference, or live show.
Identifying Threats
All event planning projects should involve a comprehensive risk assessment. The process is something that event planners have to get familiar with quickly. It requires close communication with venue owners, so be warm and personable.
It is not about making demands. You have got to work together to identify vulnerabilities (unsupervised exits, uneven floors, etc.), mitigate risks (hiring security guards, signposting fire exits), and ensure that the event goes smoothly. Delegate but also make time to listen to suggestions from clients and providers.
Know Your Audience
The type of security required depends entirely on the nature of the event. Full security is common at concerts, for example, but would be unusual at a corporate networking event (unless high profile guests are in attendance). Match the resources to the audience. Alcohol in formal settings is unlikely to lead to trouble because smaller crowds mean that guests are more exposed.
However, a bigger crowd means more opportunities for disorder, so consider having a visible security presence. Don’t forget that security personnel and stewards provide more than just intervention. They are great at helping guests enter a venue safely, giving directions, answering questions, and ensuring that people have everything they need.
by: Antony Hampel