Organising an event can be an exciting experience, but it’s essential to prioritise the safety of attendees and staff.
Event security is a critical aspect of any event, and implementing best practices can help prevent any unfortunate incidents.
In this article, we discuss ten best practices for event security in Melbourne that event planners and organisers can implement to ensure the safety of all involved.
1. Conduct a Risk Assessment
Before planning an event, it’s essential to conduct a risk assessment to identify potential security risks. This is your first and most essential step to establishing a security plan for an event.
A risk assessment should consider the following:
- Location
- Type of event
- Number of attendees
- Any past security incidents
This information will help event organisers determine the level of security needed and develop a security plan.
Further, a risk assessment will also assess the likelihood and impact of each threat and determine the appropriate security measures needed to mitigate the risks. Thus, you must conduct a risk assessment early in the planning process and update it regularly as the event evolves.
2. Establish a Security Plan
Building on the risk assessment, you should build a security plan outlining the necessary security measures for the event.
The security plan includes many things — the number of security personnel required, their duties, qualifications, etc. It should also specify any security equipment needed, such as metal detectors, cameras, or access control systems.
It’s important to create a security plan with extreme detailing, since you cannot leave anything up to chance. Tightening security from all possible angles is the best way to protect the invitees, property, and everyone else involved.
3. Provide Adequate Training for Security Personnel
Security guards play a vital role in ensuring the safety of an event. Proper training is essential to prepare them to handle various situations and emergencies.
As the organiser, it is your responsibility to ensure the security personnel you hire have received appropriate training. For example, training in event security usually includes crowd control, first aid, and conflict resolution.
Further, they must also know about the event and its schedule by heart. This makes them more aware and alert of the happenings of the event.
4. Hire Professional Event Security
Engaging professional event security in Melbourne can provide a higher level of security for attendees and staff.
Professional security companies have trained personnel, specialised equipment, and experience handling different events. Thus, they can also provide a comprehensive security plan and ensure all security measures are in place.
5. Coordinate with Local Law Enforcement
Coordinating with local law enforcement can enhance event security. The police can provide support through efficient crowd control, traffic management, and emergency response. They can also provide additional security personnel or equipment if needed.
When you engage the right security company, they can also take care of this essential from their end. So, you have one thing less on your plate!
6. Provide Clear Communication Channels
Clear communication channels are critical for the best event security in Melbourne. There should be clear lines of communication between security personnel, event staff, and law enforcement.
It is also vital to inform the attendees about emergency procedures and whom to contact if there is an emergency.
7. Conduct Bag Searches and Metal Detector Checks
Bag searches and metal detector checks are essential security measures for large events. These measures can help prevent attendees from bringing prohibited items, such as weapons or explosives, into the event. However, ensure your security personnel conducts these bag searches and metal detector checks in a non-invasive manner.
Respect the attendees’ privacy while ensuring the best security.
8. Implement Access Control Systems
Access control systems help regulate the flow of attendees and prevent unauthorised access. These systems can include the following:
- Turnstiles
- Wristbands
- Electronic access cards
Integrate access control systems with your security plan, and your personnel will be better equipped to maintain security at your event.
9. Review Security Protocols Regularly
Regularly reviewing security protocols can help event organisers identify any weaknesses in the security plan. After identifying the shortcomings, you can tweak the plan accordingly and ensure better security.
It can also help ensure that all security personnel are familiar with the security plan and prepared for emergencies. Unless and until your security staff are aware of the plan, your event and invitees will be in a vulnerable state.
Also as part of the process, remember to review your security protocols after every event and update them if necessary.
10. Provide Emergency Response Planning
Emergency response planning is crucial in ensuring the safety of attendees and staff in case of an emergency. It should include protocols for natural disasters, medical emergencies, and terrorist incidents.
Communicate your emergency plan to all staff members and attendees, and ensure everyone understands their roles and responsibilities in the event of an emergency. The emergency plan needs regular reviewing and updating as needed.
The gist is to train your staff in emergency response procedures, and there should be clear lines of communication between security personnel and law enforcement.
Conclusion
Implementing these 10 best practices for event security in Melbourne has become rather common in recent times. Discuss these measures with your security company and ensure adapting them to your needs.
Check out one of the best providers of event security, Aligned Security Force to create a comprehensive security plan for your event. They can also help regularly review your security protocols and provide emergency response planning.
We hope this article helped you understand your security needs better.
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