When all aspects of the event complement one another, the event looks stunning. Out of all aspects, the most important one is safety. You have hired mind-blowing equipment but haven’t considered its safety, you can imagine the impact. While arranging any event an event producer is responsible for the safety of his staff and audience. People don’t attend any kind of event to risk their life. If your event lacks safety without any hesitation accept the fact that you have lost your place in the market. What is the first thing that comes to mind when you consider the event’s safety?
When people think about Live Event Production, they first think about security staff and protocols. Well, they are important but this is not it regarding safety. During the planning phase, a great deal of planning is required for safety. By catering to just these two aspects you can’t think that your event is safe. The event must be safe from the AV perspective too.
Checklist To Consider for Event’s Safety:
This checklist will reveal those factors that are also important in addition to security guards and protocols. Have a look at this checklist to keep your upcoming events safer than before.
1. Importance Of Lighting for Event’s Safety:
The proper planning of adequate lighting is extremely essential for the event’s safety. Adequate lighting will help in identifying safety hazards. It also assists with security monitoring. It also helps the medical team with emergency evacuation or medical help in any incident.
The event lighting must meet the following requirements:
- A light should define space and boundaries.
- Walkways should be enlightened enough to make them visible.
- As a backup, emergency lighting should be available.
- Use lights at the exit point and on exit signs.
- The lights should be of good quality.
2. Safety Of Noise and Volume:
How many people do you believe are concerned about noise pollution? Not many people consider that aspect. However, it is an essential aspect to think about. At a music festival, concerts, fashion shows, and many more, there will be a high volume of noise involved. However, loud noises are damaging for hearing and can lead to permanent loss of hearing sense. While arranging any event do consider that came with noise exposure. Always take necessary measures to control those effects. Prefer to give staff a regular break from the loud noise. Whether that noise is from the sound system or any kind of machinery during setup or breakup.
Set up quiet areas for attendees so that they retrieve from loud noise. Don’t forget to monitor the sound level of the sound system. It should not exceed the safety standards. Use event’s space in such a way that the audience doesn’t exist within 10 feet range of the speaker.
3. Always Use Element Resistant Equipment:
Sometimes changes in weather conditions occur unknowingly. They demand event managers adapt to that change quickly. Changes in weather conditions can of course strike the entire event. Being prepared for the event’s safety will protect the event and the equipment. Priority should be given to securing the AV equipment and the outdoor stage. If they fall due to weather it will lead to security, safety, and financial risk. Invest in those pieces of equipment that withstand the sudden changes in the weather.
4. Safety Of Cables and Wires:
Event producers must consider the safety of wires and cables. This is mandatory for the safety of staff and the audience. Unmanaged wires can lead to tripping or any other mishap. Due to this kind of mishap you have to bear a lawsuit. The cables that are stretched across the ground should have a cable ramp for limiting the risk.
5. Proper Installation of Equipment:
The presence of extremely large equipment hanging over the head of attendees and staff already sounds dangerous. If the equipment is not properly installed it can be extremely dangerous. It has the potential to take the life of numerous people. The presence of the certified staff and the well-rigged equipment creates a difference between a fun time and tragedy.
The same can be said for the LED walls. Without any kind of counterbalance support, led walls can fall and collapse. This will put performers, speakers, and audience all at the risk. Don’t compromise on having a certified staff for the installation of equipment. Also, double-check all aspects after installation.
6. Safety Of Video and Projection Equipment:
The use of this equipment may involve the use of a computer on the tension grid. Also placing heavy projectors in the elevated position. Proper body mechanics usage is important while lifting heavy equipment. The fall protection for the projector is important when placed in an elevated position.
7. Potential Electrical Malfunctions:
Regular inspection can reduce the risks of any kind of electrical issues. Give this responsibility to properly trained employees. The maintenance and inspection of audio-visual equipment is not a cup of tea for an inexperienced individual. This thing should not be ignored because electrical issues can lead to a fire.
How To Manage Risks Associated With AV?
The risks mentioned above shows that how devastating they can be for the participants of the event. These risks need proper attention and planning. There must be a way through which event producers can mitigate the risk. No one can understand the risks of AV in Live Event Production better than certified Av professionals. They are the people who are responsible for arranging large setups and managing heavy equipment. With so many moving parts make sure to hire the experienced AV staff.
These are the ones who are capable of seeing security as a priority. In the absence of certified professionals, the chance of an event’s risk increases. This will put the lives of individuals and your career at great risk. Trained professionals take the event seriously. Their dedication is the key to the safety of the events. So. Don’t forget to consider the explained information to have safe and successful events ahead.