Risk assessment checklist for the events industry

What is a risk assessment?

A risk assessment is the process of identifying any potential hazards or risks that may occur during a projected activity or undertaking.

Why is a risk assessment used when planning an event?

A risk assessment is essential for planning any event as it identifies the potential risks that may arise from holding an event and highlights the steps event organisers will need to take to reduce or mitigate these risks. The risks encountered at events can vary - especially those that involve the public, so the event organisers will be responsible for maintaining health and safety before, during and after the event has taken place.

Risk assessment checklist

Carrying out a risk assessment will help to ensure that an event runs as safely as possible. This checklist covers the identification of risks and hazards that may occur during an event, such as:

Parking, grounds, and walkways

• Slips, trips and falls hazards
• Holes or uneven ground in walkways
• Sharp objects i.e., marquee or tent pegs in passageways
• Fire hazards including evacuation and exits
• Road congestion
• Overcrowding in parking lots
• Accessibility of emergency services

Staging and equipment

• Construction and derig of stages or structures
• Uneven stage space or performance floor
• Heavy or moving machinery
• Untagged electrical equipment or electrical leads
• Manual handling activities
• Poor ventilation, lighting, or heating

Sound

• Noise control
• High noise levels

Food

• Sanitary facilities at food handling stalls

Chemicals

• Potentially hazardous chemicals or substances e.g., fumes or dust
• Waste management

Crowd

• Overcrowding
• Crowd congestion and pedestrian traffic
• Accessibility
• First aid

Here at Oxford Plastics, we understand the importance of risk assessment management when planning an event. Our site safety range of products are designed and manufactured to be long-lasting, high-quality, problem-solving equipment that minimise the risk of hazards. Our wide range of plastic barrier and temporary fencing solutions for traffic control, street works, and construction sites are ideal for event management. What’s more, we believe in sustainability, which is why we build recycled materials and recyclability into our product ranges. Find out more about our comprehensive range of products for your event or get in touch with our friendly team today.