Effective fire safety planning is not merely a box to tick for an event permit; it is a fundamental and legal requirement that safeguards lives, property, and the event’s reputation. At an event, the risk of fire can be significantly heightened due to the presence of large crowds, temporary structures, electrical equipment, and a wide variety of flammable materials. A well-thought-out fire safety plan is the cornerstone of a safe event.
Key Elements of a Fire Safety Plan
A comprehensive fire safety plan goes beyond simply having fire extinguishers on-site. It is a dynamic document that considers the entire lifecycle of the event, from setup to breakdown.
- Risk Assessment and Prevention: The first step in any fire safety plan is a thorough risk assessment. This involves identifying potential fire hazards specific to the venue and event type. Hazards can include faulty electrical wiring, cooking equipment, pyrotechnics, smoking areas, and the storage of flammable materials like waste or fuel. The plan should outline measures to prevent these hazards from escalating. For example, ensuring all electrical equipment is PAT (Portable Appliance Testing) certified and that designated smoking areas are located far from flammable structures.
- Fire Detection and Alarms: Depending on the venue and the scale of the event, a plan should detail the type of fire detection and alarm systems in place. This could range from simple smoke detectors in temporary offices to a more sophisticated system for a large indoor venue. The plan must specify who is responsible for monitoring these systems and how an alert will be communicated to the public and emergency services.
- Means of Escape: This is arguably the most critical part of a fire safety plan. An event organiser must ensure there are sufficient, clearly marked, and unobstructed emergency exits. The plan should detail:
- The number and location of all emergency exits.
- The width of escape routes and exits, calculated to accommodate the maximum expected number of attendees.
- Emergency lighting to ensure exits remain visible in a power outage.
- Stewards and marshals trained to guide the public to safety in an orderly manner.
- Fire Fighting Equipment: The plan should specify the type, number, and location of fire fighting equipment, such as fire extinguishers, fire blankets, and hoses. The equipment must be appropriate for the potential fire risks (e.g., a CO2 extinguisher for electrical fires, a wet chemical extinguisher for cooking fires). All fire points must be clearly marked and accessible.
- Emergency Procedures: All event staff, including stewards, security, and volunteers, must be trained on what to do in the event of a fire. The plan should outline a clear sequence of actions:
- Raise the alarm and notify emergency services.
- Attempt to extinguish the fire if it is small and safe to do so.
- Initiate evacuation of the affected area.
- Control crowds to prevent panic.
- Liaise with the fire service upon their arrival.
The Consequences of Neglect
Failing to implement a robust fire safety plan can lead to catastrophic consequences. Beyond the obvious risk to human life, an event organiser could face severe legal penalties, including large fines and imprisonment. The damage to an organisation’s reputation can be irreparable, leading to a loss of public trust and the inability to secure future permits. By taking fire safety seriously, an event organiser is not only fulfilling their legal and moral duty but also building a resilient and professional operation.
For further information of Fire Safety Planning, visit the HSE’s website here.
