BUREAU VERITAS URGES EVENT ORGANISERS TO TAKE A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO SAFETY, AS INDUSTRY RECEIVES GREEN LIGHT FOR LIVE EVENTS

“The events sector has undoubtedly been one of the hardest hit by COVID restrictions since the pandemic began and, with the recent announcement of an end to restrictions altogether, event organisers now have the green light return to ‘a new normal’. However, with some events having not gone ahead for up to two years, there will be a number of considerations for organisers to take into account, ensuring the full return to live events is a safe and successful one.

“With bookings soaring across a plethora of sectors, from festivals to business events, organisers must demonstrate a continued commitment to health and safety and provide attendees with the confidence that all procedures are being adhered to.

“Furthermore, from a Construction, Design and Management (CDM) perspective, additional factors should be taken into account for the build and take-down of temporary structures.

“There are also considerations around fire safety and risk assessment – with more people going into event spaces than there will have been since early 2020, as well as the safety and hygiene practices of food preparation and compliance to the relevant wiring regulations to ensure all-important electrics are installed correctly – particularly when considering the lack of use of event spaces and equipment over the last two years.

“We appreciate there are a large number of factors to consider in the planning of the events, but amidst the excitement of a true resurgence of this industry, it’s important each step is followed. At Bureau Veritas, we have launched a virtual roundtable discussing each element of event planning, bringing in key experts within the construction, fire, food, electrics and acoustics sectors. This will support organisers to ensure each box of their checklist is being ticked off, ahead of opening an event.”