Ensuring the security of large-scale events is a complex responsibility that requires careful planning and professional execution. Event stewards play a crucial role in maintaining order, safeguarding attendees, and ensuring that event organisers comply with UK regulations, including the Security Industry Authority (SIA) licensing requirements. Their duties range from crowd management to emergency response, making their role indispensable in the event industry. This article outlines the best practices for event security stewards, offering practical guidance on responsibilities, training, and compliance.
Understanding the Role of Event Stewards
Key Responsibilities of Event Stewards
Event stewards serve as the first line of defence in ensuring a safe and controlled event environment. Their primary responsibilities include:
- Crowd Supervision: Preventing overcrowding and ensuring smooth movement.
- Access Control: Monitoring entry and exit points to prevent unauthorised access.
- Security Threat Identification: Observing and reporting suspicious behaviour.
- Emergency Response: Assisting with evacuations and directing attendees in crisis situations.
- Customer Assistance: Providing information and guidance to attendees.
- Conflict Resolution: Addressing disputes and diffusing tensions before they escalate.
- Monitoring Surveillance Systems: Assisting security teams in observing CCTV footage for real-time risk assessment.
By performing these tasks efficiently, stewards help minimise risks and contribute to an overall positive event experience.
Legal Requirements and SIA Licensing
To work as an event steward at regulated venues in the UK, stewards must obtain an SIA licence. This certification ensures that stewards are adequately trained in the following:
- Legal Responsibilities: Understanding event security laws and compliance requirements.
- Conflict Management: Handling disputes professionally and minimising confrontations.
- Emergency First Aid: Providing immediate assistance during medical emergencies.
- Terrorism Awareness: Recognising potential terrorist threats and taking preventive actions.
- Public Liability Awareness: Ensuring stewards understand their role in liability and legal responsibility.
The UK government mandates that event organisers hire licensed stewards for large events, reinforcing public safety measures and reducing liability risks.
Core Competencies and Training for Stewards
Crowd Management Techniques
Effective crowd management is one of the most critical skills for an event steward. Stewards should be trained in:
- Predicting and Preventing Congestion: Identifying high-traffic areas and implementing queue systems.
- Clear Communication: Using public address systems and non-verbal signals for guidance.
- Cooperation with Law Enforcement: Liaising with local authorities to ensure coordinated security efforts.
- Proactive Crowd Engagement: Interacting with attendees to reduce tensions and maintain order.
- Situational Awareness: Scanning for changes in crowd behaviour that may indicate potential incidents.
Events with poor crowd management have historically resulted in injuries and fatalities. Implementing strategic measures helps mitigate these risks.
Recognising and Responding to Security Threats
Event stewards must be vigilant and capable of identifying potential security threats, including:
- Unattended Bags: Notifying security personnel about suspicious items.
- Aggressive or Unusual Behaviour: Monitoring individuals who appear disruptive or intoxicated.
- Unauthorised Access Attempts: Preventing non-ticket holders from entering restricted areas.
- Weapons and Contraband Detection: Identifying objects that may pose a risk and reporting them accordingly.
- Assessing Drunk and Disorderly Behaviour: Taking the appropriate course of action based on event policies and legal considerations.
A step-by-step protocol should be in place for swiftly and discreetly reporting incidents, ensuring that security threats are addressed before they escalate.
Access Control and Search Procedures
Stewards play a fundamental role in enforcing access control measures. Best practices include:
- Ticket and Credential Verification: Ensuring only authorised attendees gain entry.
- Conducting Bag Checks: Following standardised search procedures while respecting attendees’ rights.
- Metal Detector Usage: Assisting with scanning for prohibited items at high-risk events.
- Managing VIP and Restricted Areas: Ensuring restricted zones are accessible only to authorised personnel.
- Implementing Exit Strategies: Coordinating efficient and controlled exits for smooth dispersal.
Strict access control procedures reduce security breaches and enhance the safety of attendees and staff.
Health, Safety, and Emergency Protocols
Health and Safety Compliance
Stewards must be trained in health and safety regulations relevant to their role, including:
- Hazard Identification: Recognising potential safety risks, such as trip hazards or overcrowding.
- Basic First Aid: Providing immediate care to injured or unwell attendees.
- Fire Safety Procedures: Understanding emergency evacuation routes and fire extinguisher locations.
- Dealing with Medical Emergencies: Coordinating with onsite medical teams for rapid response.
- Mitigating Environmental Hazards: Preparing for adverse weather conditions and their impact on safety.
Regular health and safety briefings help stewards stay prepared and responsive in dynamic event environments.
Emergency Response Planning
Preparedness is key to effective emergency response. Event stewards should be equipped to:
- Initiate Evacuations: Guiding attendees to exits safely in case of emergencies.
- Communicate with Emergency Services: Relaying accurate information to paramedics or police.
- Follow Incident Reporting Protocols: Documenting security breaches and incidents for post-event evaluation.
- Perform Crowd Dispersal Safely: Ensuring that mass movement does not lead to panic or stampedes.
- Coordinate with Event Control: Maintaining communication with event managers for real-time security updates.
Event organisers should conduct frequent emergency drills to ensure stewards can execute their roles effectively under pressure.
In Summary
Event stewards are vital to maintaining security at large-scale events. Through proper training, adherence to legal requirements, and effective crowd management techniques, stewards help ensure safe and successful gatherings. Event organisers must prioritise hiring well-trained, SIA-licensed stewards to uphold safety standards and deliver a secure experience for all attendees. By implementing best practices in event security, organisers can foster a controlled, enjoyable, and safe event environment for participants and staff.
