Ensuring Safety: Best Practices for First-Line Event Security Teams

Ensuring the safety and security of event attendees is the main priority for any security team. In recent years, events have unfortunately become a target for security threats and incidents. A first-line security team is responsible for maintaining a secure environment and they are generally the first point of contact in the event of a security threat or incident. From music festivals and sporting events to conferences and charity fundraisers, there are many challenges faced by these security teams. Nonetheless, it’s essential for them to stick to their core duties. In this article, we will discuss the best practices for first-line event security teams.

1. Risk Assessment & Planning

Before an event takes place, the security team should conduct a thorough risk assessment to identify potential security risks and vulnerabilities. The security team should also be fully aware of the venue layout of where the event will be taking place including entry points and emergency exits. A risk assessment is a detailed plan which includes emergency procedures, communication protocols, assignments of specific responsibilities to each security officer and so on.

2. Good Communication

In any line of work, having good communication is a key element. Establishing clear communication channels between security officers is vital. Whether that is verbal communication, mobile phones, public address systems or two-way radios, it allows security officers to communicate effectively between each other, share critical information and coordinate their actions. It’s also worth having more than one communication channel during the event. For example, on the day of the event, there is poor mobile service, so two-way radios will become the most effective way to communicate.

3. Work With Local Authorities

Alongside communicating within the team, there also needs to be communication with local authorities such as the police force or emergency services in the event of a serious incident. This ensures a rapid and effective response while maintaining public safety. By coordinating with local authorities, first-line security teams can also benefit from their specialised skills and resources. For instance, emergency services can provide medical assistance. 

4. Crowd Management

Another essential practice for first-line security teams is crowd management. This involves ensuring orderly movement of crowds, especially in crowded areas such as in front of a music festival stage. In addition, security teams will need to implement strategies to prevent overcrowding and maintain a safe and controlled environment. For instance, planned emergency evacuations in the event of a fire or security threat to guide large crowds out of the venue to safety. 

5. Ongoing Training

In a modern and digital world, new threats may emerge and security teams need to be prepared for anything. Ongoing training allows security teams to stay ahead of evolving threats and risks, as well as equipping them with the knowledge and skills to handle unfamiliar challenges. It also ensures security teams maintain the highest level of professionalism and comply with the latest industry regulations and standards.

Event Security From Alpha Omega Securities

If you are an event coordinator and looking to hire security, Alpha Omega Securities is a SIA (Security Industry Authority) approved contractor, based in Crewe. Our highly trained event security officers follow the best practices and even go out of their way to ensure the safety of attendees and employees. We can ensure the safety of your attendees and premises while you focus on hosting a successful event. 

For more information about our event security services, read our dedicated page. To contact Alpha Omega Securities and discuss your security requirements, you can make an online enquiry, call us on 0127 025 8881, or email us on enquiries@alphaomegauk.com. We look forward to hearing from you soon.