Concert Venue Security – Precautions You Can Take

January 10th, 2025

Last updated: January 10th, 2025

Concert venues across the UK host millions of fans every year. We have intimate gigs as well as massive arena tours. While the focus is always on the performances, ensuring safety and security is a top priority and it is different for every event and venue. Concert venue security is a crucial consideration for those involved in the industry and as well as staffing, there are other things that venues can potentially do to protect customers.

With growing concerns about public safety and crowd management, venues must implement the right measures to protect everyone on site. Here’s an in-depth look at how security can be improved and the technologies that play a critical role in keeping venues safe.

CCTV Systems

Closed-circuit television or CCTV is a big part of modern venue security. Well-placed cameras allow security teams to monitor every corner of the venue, from entrances and exits to backstage areas and seating sections. High-definition cameras with night vision capabilities ensure that even poorly lit areas are under surveillance.

Live feeds help staff identify potential risks in real-time, such as unauthorised access, suspicious packages or even conflicts in the crowd. Recorded footage also serves as valuable evidence in case of any incidents, aiding investigations and providing clarity.

For venues, compliance with GDPR regulations regarding CCTV use is essential to balance security with privacy rights. The majority of the footage will never be used, but that doesn’t mean that it isn’t important.

Turnstiles and Controlled Entry Systems For Venue Security

Turnstiles and access control systems are increasingly common in concert venues, particularly in large arenas and stadiums. These systems help regulate the flow of attendees, ensuring orderly entry and exit. Turnstiles can also integrate with ticket scanners, allowing only valid ticket holders to enter, which is something that can be a big issue at some events.

In most venues, entry points still need to be staffed, but that doesn’t mean that turnstiles are redundant. They can integrate well with ticketing platforms and allow venues to cleverly control who is getting in. Fake ticketing is a real problem in the modern age with millions being lost every year. Turnstiles and access control can be great methods to ensure that only legitimate ticket-holders are getting in.

Building Management and Emergency Preparedness

The physical infrastructure of a venue plays a vital role in its overall security. Building management systems (BMS) help oversee the venue’s critical systems, including lighting, ventilation, and fire safety. For instance, automated emergency lighting ensures that exits are visible in case of a power failure. We’re only providing a high-level overview of this, but there are a lot of health and safety considerations and fire risk assessments are 100% essential.

Venues must also have well-defined evacuation plans in place. Clear signage, well-lit exits, and trained staff who can guide attendees during an emergency are crucial. Regular fire drills and simulations help staff remain prepared to handle unexpected situations.

Partnerships with Local Authorities

Collaboration with local police, fire services, and medical responders strengthens a venue’s security framework. Many venues work closely with authorities to assess risks and develop contingency plans.

For major events, having police presence on-site or on standby adds an extra layer of safety. For small events, this will seem like overkill, but using private security companies can provide a little extra peace of mind.

Terrorism Awareness and Prevention

Sadly, we have seen instances of terrorism at high-profile entertainment venues in the past. As a result, counter-terrorism measures are now integral to venue security. Programs like ACT (Action Counters Terrorism) Awareness provide valuable training to venue staff, teaching them how to identify suspicious behaviour and respond appropriately.

Security measures such as vehicle barriers and no-parking zones near entrances are designed to reduce vulnerabilities. Public awareness campaigns also encourage attendees to report anything unusual.

Crowd Management and Stewards

This guide is more focused on prevention methods for the building itself than staffing, but anyone can see that stewards and crowd management is essential.

Large crowds are a hallmark of concerts, but they also present unique challenges. Effective crowd management starts with well-trained stewards who can direct attendees and give help if it is needed.

Barriers and designated entry points help manage queues and prevent overcrowding. Security personnel stationed throughout the venue keep an eye on crowd behaviour.

Venues are also more aware of health and safety protocols these days and focused on ensuring that attendees feel comfortable in densely packed environments. From hand sanitisation stations to ventilation upgrades, these measures have become a standard part of crowd management strategies.

It is crucial that the responsible person at these venues has met their legal responsibilities when it comes to keeping people safe. No event should take place without the adequate precautions.