Four industry organisations have together published a new guide providing guidance on best practice crowd management for venues and other hospitality businesses across the UK.
The 'Safer Crowds, Safer Venues' guide has been produced by UK Crowd Management Association, UK Door Security Association, Night Time Industries Association and LIVE, "in response to several high-profile incidents resulting in loss of life or serious injury", most likely including the crowd crush at Brixton Academy in December 2022 in which two people died.
It specifically provides guidance for those venue and hospitality businesses with capacities under 5000. That includes, says NTIA CEO Michael Kill, “businesses that may not have naturally considered crowd management as a priority”. The guide, adds, Jon Collins of LIVE, “offers timely support in the vitally important area of crowd management to those small and medium size venues previously underserved in this area”.
The National Arenas Association already provides crowd management guidance for arena venues with a seated capacity over 5000. So the new guide is for smaller performance spaces - including grassroots venues, nightclubs, theatres and concert halls - as well as other hospitality businesses like bars, pubs and restaurants.
Expanding further on the guide, Kill says, “The tragedies of recent years have left an indelible mark on our industry, reminding us of the urgent need for comprehensive crowd management protocols. This document, crafted by industry experts, serves as a beacon of best practice for venue operators and organisers, especially those operating within the smaller echelons of our vibrant nightlife scene".
Kill also notes that the guide is meant to complement official regulations and guidance from government. "While this document serves as a valuable resource", he adds, "it is important to recognise that it does not replace regulatory tools or official guidance. Instead, it complements existing frameworks by offering practical insights and recommendations based on industry expertise".
