Special Events: Identifying Hazards

Effective risk management planning starts with identification of the hazards that may be inherit to the event.  Hazard identification is a careful assessment of the known risks and potential risks that may arise from the activities’ of the event.

For example if the event is a live stage performance at an outdoor location,  the hazards may arise from the use of temporary structures, such as stages and related equipment, There  may also be hazards related to the use of power,  lighting systems or sound equipment.  Are spectators or participants allowed to cross areas with electrical lines or guide wires?  Is the sound system adequate for the venue or will spectators need to crowd too closely to the stage to hear the performance?  How strong is the support for these systems, especially if a wind or other weather event arises?
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These details need to be identified and addressed in the risk management and safety plan for the event.  At times the various stakeholders involved in the event may need to meet and discuss specific planning details and the potential hazards that may be evident.  This enriches the process through the collective resources of many stakeholders.