Event management is a complex and challenging job, but it is one that is essential to the success of many businesses and organisations. However, event management also comes with several health and safety risks. These risks can range from minor injuries to major incidents, which can have a massive impact on the event itself, as well as on the persons involved. 

It is imperative for event managers to take health and safety seriously. By developing and implementing effective health and safety procedures, event managers can help prevent accidents and injuries, and they can ensure that their events are safe and enjoyable for everyone involved. 

Health and Safety considerations when planning events: 

• Fire safety: This is one of the most important areas. Ensure that all fire exits are clearly marked and accessible, and that there are enough fire extinguishers to hand. You should also have a fire evacuation plan in place in case of an emergency. 

• Electrical safety: Make sure that all electrical equipment is properly grounded and that extension cords are in good condition. You should also have a qualified electrician inspect the electrical wiring in your event space before the event. 
• Food safety: It is important to take steps to ensure that the food served at your event is safe. This includes using only fresh, properly cooked food, and storing food at the correct temperatures. You should also have a designated food handler who is responsible for ensuring that food safety procedures are followed. 
• Sanitation: Ensure that all surfaces are clean and free of debris, and that there are adequate handwashing facilities available. You should also have a plan for dealing with waste disposal. 
• Accessibility: Events should be accessible to people with disabilities. This includes providing wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and Braille signage. 
• Weather: If your event is outdoors, you need to be prepared for different weather conditions. This includes having a plan for dealing with rain, heat, or cold. 

• Security: This includes having security guards on hand, as well as a plan for dealing with any security incidents. 

In addition to these general considerations, there may be specific health and safety requirements that apply to your event. These requirements may vary depending on the type of event, the location, and the local laws. It is important to research these requirements and make sure that you comply. 

Tips for planning safe events: 

• Get professional advice from a qualified health and safety consultant. 
• Conduct a risk assessment to identify potential hazards. 

• Implement appropriate control measures to mitigate risks. 
• Train staff on health and safety procedures. 
• Have a contingency plan in place in case of an emergency. 
• Monitor compliance with regulations. 
• Communicate with staff and attendees about health and safety. 

One of the best ways to implement effective health and safety procedures is to use iProtectU EHS software. iProtectU is a cloud-based software platform that provides event managers with a comprehensive set of tools to help them manage health and safety. 

There are several benefits to using iProtectU EHS software. These benefits include: 

• Improved health and safety: iProtectU can help event managers to identify and mitigate risks, and to develop effective procedures to prevent accidents and injuries. 
• Increased compliance: iProtectU can help event managers to track compliance with regulations, and to ensure that their events are safe and legal. 
• Reduced costs: iProtectU can help event managers to reduce the costs associated with accidents and injuries, as well as the costs of complying with regulations. 

• Improved efficiency: iProtectU can help event managers to streamline their health and safety procedures, and to make them more efficient. 

The iProtectU health and safety software provides: 

• An inspection and Audit App which allows for safety inspection of the workplace and associated report 
• eLearning on Event Management safety 

• Scheduling functionality for managers to send eLearning, risk assessments and documents out to all staff via the software with tracks completion and compliance 
• Risk assessment template covering a wide range of events 
• Management system to document control the policy on Event Management 
• Method Statement module for the creation of work activity working instructions 
• Legal register that provides legislation guidance on Event Management 

• Incident investigation module that tracks incidents involving event activities or equipment both with an app and via desktop 
• Hazard observation app where staff can report and record any concerns regarding events to the organisation 
• Asset management App ensuring assets are recorded in the software