Managing the Risks: An Observation of Crowd Management and Other Risks Associated With Outdoor Music Festivals in the UK

Since the 1980s employers in the UK have been subject to statutory responsibilities to ensure that all workplaces are safe. These responsibilities also extend to event managers staging one-off events. The Corporate Manslaughter Act of 1997 and the Health and Safety Act 1999 have invariably changed the way that events are planned, managed, and delivered. This chapter examines best practices for managing major health and safety issues at outdoor music festivals (OMFs) based on an extensive literature review and the author's practitioner experience of various music festivals nationwide. It will provide a practical and convenient reference guide for event managers who do not have time to attend other training or to do extensive research. The first section will discuss the legislative framework for outdoor events in the UK. Next, commentary is provided on the nature and characteristics of outdoor music festivals. Common risks associated with outdoor music festivals are discussed accompanied by actionable steps that event managers can employ to mitigate risks