As a manager in the security industry, preparing for high-profile events can be both exciting and daunting. As well as ensuring that every detail is attended to, from logistics and supplies to staffing considerations, one of the most important elements to ensure a smooth running event is having an effective team of crowd controllers onsite. By taking certain steps ahead of time, managers can ensure their crowd controllers are adequately prepared to manage any situation which may arise during an event.
In this blog post, we’ll look at tips on effectively preparing your team, so they’re ready to handle any hiccups or unexpected scenarios with confidence and efficiency.
As more safety restrictions ease, security companies have a valuable opportunity to offer their services and ensure that big events are executed smoothly. Security teams should look to provide not only the physical security of attendees at these large gatherings but also consult on effective crowd management practices.
1. Review the event layout and identify potential problem areas.
Before an event, security managers should review the event layout by visiting the site to identify any potential problem areas. This will help them develop a security management plan that considers the event’s specific needs. Additionally, reviewing the event layout can help security managers to identify risk points where potential issues could arise. It would also be beneficial for security manager to review and assess potential issues during the event.
Once the review is complete, managers should provide a risk assessment along with any recommendations to the clients about adding policies, the number of crowd controllers required, CCTV cameras, RSA marshalls, and the best positioning of crowd controllers and number of crowd controllers for the positions.
2. Develop a security plan that includes crowd control measures.
Security managers should develop a detailed security management plan that covers positioning, emergency procedures, evacuation plans, possible risks, and how to identify them. Crowd controllers are expected to implement security plans to ensure public safety. The security managers and crowd controllers should work closely with the event organisers and police on enforcing the protocols to ensure a smooth event.
3. Communicate the security plan to all relevant personnel.
It is the security manager’s or supervisor’s role to make sure all crowd controllers are briefed about the security plan before the event. This is to make sure everyone is on the same page and to avoid any confusions with the workflow implemented for the event.
Before the event, security managers have to ensure that the crowd controllers for the event are trained and have a good understanding what is required of them and how to perform their role.. A meeting should also be conducted to check if the whole team is ready days or hours before the event. In the meetings and training, managers should discuss the different issues that can arise from the event and how the guards need to respond to them, and the procedures that have to be taken.
4. Assign a supervisor to be onsite
A security manager or supervisor should be onsite with the crowd controllers to make sure everything runs according to the plan. Having managers on site would also be a good way to assis crowd controllers and event staff in case they have any questions or if back up is needed. It would also be easier to create action plans in case of emergency if the supervisor is present on the ground.
5. Monitor crowds during the event and be prepared to respond to problems.
During the event, security personnel should monitor crowds closely and be prepared to respond quickly to any problems. This may involve moving people away from potential danger areas or using non-lethal force to disperse a crowd if necessary. By monitoring crowds closely and being prepared to respond quickly, security managers can help prevent serious problems.
6. Debrief after the event and make changes to the security plan as necessary.
After an event has ended, it is important for security managers or supervisors to debrief with all relevant personnel. This helps to ensure that any lessons learned during the event are incorporated into plans so that future events run smoothly and safely.
With the right strategic plan in place, the event can guarantee a pleasant experience for everyone involved. By partnering with local police and utilising modern technology, companies can serve as an assurance that great events can become a reality with proper precautionary measures taken ahead of time.
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