Important security measures for events
Turnstiles are an important part of security.
You may not think about them very often, and may even find them to be a nuisance at times, but they’re there for your safety.
When it comes to public security at big events, or places with high foot traffic, special security measures need to be put in place in order to stem the flow of traffic and to protect those attending the occasion or passing through the area.
Here are a few important security measure for events.
Turnstiles
While it may appear that these devices are erected in order to cause annoyance to individuals, they actually serve a greater purpose. Manual turnstiles allow for an event to stem the tide of people entering an area as to not cause blockage or a stampede. By only permitting one person at a time, which can, in itself cause traffic, it ensures that people enter a place in a calm and orderly manner.
They’re not without their own problems. In areas where a lot of people will be entering, such as a concert, only having one turnstile will cause traffic problems with getting people into a location. In order to change this, organisers will need to put up several of these devices to allow for more people to enter, though still in an orderly manner.
Besides the normal turnstiles, which are generally placed in stores, there are also security card-drives ones. These will only open if a user has a security card for the device. Upon swiping, it will allow one person to pass through. Security turnstiles are there to protect government departments, high-security areas, as well as places the require relevant passes, just as train terminals.
Alternatively, some institutions use remote security turnstiles. These allow security guards to first check visitors before granting them access to the building or area. Besides cards or electronics maybe not working, these devices don’t really have any drawbacks. They are also perfect for events that require passes that can be scanned.
Erecting boundaries
While most event areas will already have boundaries in place, if not then the area should be fenced off. This not only indicates to visitors where they can and cannot walk but stops those who don’t have permission to enter. Ideally, places that are off limits to the general public should have fencing as well.
All boundaries should feature fences warning those outside that they are electrified, have spikes, or any other harmful features. This is also useful for visitors who feel they can make a quick entrance or exit by hopping the fence.
Bag checking/scanning
One way to keep unwanted problems to a minimum is by scanning or manually checking the contents of bags brought into the event. While security should not violate a patron’s rights, personal bags need to be checked for alcohol, weapons, and any other objects that shouldn’t be allowed on-site.
If an event or area is checking bags, signs need to be put up so that visitors are aware of the situation and don’t feel the measure is too harsh. This should also be advertised before the event takes place in order to give adequate warning to patrons.
Patrolling security
Your event or high-foot traffic area should always include patrolling security, which includes those standing at entrances and major exits to the area. Though it may increase the operation costs, having to pay additional salaries and maybe training courses as well, they will at least give patrons and visitors peace of mind seeing visible security measures in place.
Be sure to make sure the security officers are aware of the locations of toilets, emergency exits, and important facilities as people will usually ask them for directions. They should also be vigilant when distracted by questions and report into a security room via radio every few minutes.
Your security should also be aware that their job is to protect the public and the event. Any security guards that interfere with visitors or cause unnecessary problems – especially if not trained correctly – will give you event a bad name.
Security cameras
Adding to security guards point, there should be a central command room linked to CCTV cameras placed all around the area. This is to help security with their job by allowing the control room to report any problems or suspicious behaviour.
Cameras should face areas where people exit and enter the area, rooms with valuable items inside, as well as any place where money is exchanged. These are often high-profile targets for those looking to steal or disrupt the event.
These are just a few of the ways an event or public space can be secured. There are other measures, of course, but these are generally the most basic and necessary of options.