Crowd Control at Concerts: Best Practices

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As music insurance brokers, we work with countless event organizers to ensure they are well-protected against risks. One of the most critical areas of risk management in live events, especially concerts, is crowd control. Inadequate crowd control can lead to a variety of issues, including injuries, property damage, and even fatalities, each carrying significant financial and legal liabilities.

While insurance can protect against the financial repercussions, the best approach is prevention. Below are crowd control best practices to consider.

Accurate Capacity Planning and Adherence to Limits

Concert venues must adhere to strict capacity limits set by local regulations. Overcrowding increases the risk of accidents like trampling, falls, and crush injuries. For example, at a Rolling Stones concert in Vancouver in 1972, a riot broke out partially because of overcrowding. The sold-out concert left many fans without tickets, and as they gathered outside, tensions escalated. Police had to disperse the crowd using tear gas after fans attempted to storm the gates. Several people were injured during the chaos.

As brokers, we frequently advise clients that exceeding capacity limits not only jeopardizes safety but can also invalidate insurance claims. Ensuring accurate ticket sales tracking and physical monitoring at entry points can help prevent overcrowding.

Sufficient Security and Staffing

It’s important to have well-trained security and adequate staff on-site, especially at larger concerts. These personnel should be strategically placed to manage entry points, monitor crowd behavior, and handle any emergencies. A common recommendation is to have one security officer per 100 fans.

Security teams should also be trained in conflict resolution, so they can de-escalate situations that might arise in a crowded environment.

Emergency Preparedness and Medical Response

Even with the best-laid plans, emergencies can happen. Along with security, it’s also essential to have medical teams and first aid stations readily available at concerts. Organizers should designate medical areas and ensure staff are aware of these locations. Pre-event planning should include coordination with local emergency services, ensuring they are aware of the concert and can respond quickly if needed.

Some of the insurance policies we issue require that event organizers have a well-documented emergency action plan in place. This plan should outline evacuation procedures, communication strategies, and designated roles for staff in case of various emergencies, whether it’s a fire, a medical incident, or a crowd panic situation.

Clear Communication with Fans

At any concert, it’s important that fans are well-informed about procedures, exit points, and safety protocols. Communication starts well before the event, including detailed information on the ticket, venue map, and event website. Once at the venue, use signage, video screens, and announcements to guide concertgoers. In emergencies, clear instructions through a public address system or text notifications can help avoid panic and chaotic exits.

We also recommend practicing for possible scenarios with "code words" or signals that security staff can quickly identify as an indicator of trouble, allowing for swift responses. For example, at a Metallica concert in 1992, a riot formed partially because of poor communication with the crowd. The crowd got frustrated due to various technical issues and delays and poor communication regarding what was going on and the ensuing riot caused an estimated $600,000 in damage to the stadium and surrounding areas.

Barricades and Crowd Flow Management

It’s important to have adequate crowd barriers for crowd control. These type of barricades are not really thought about by fans, but they are of utmost importance. Having proper barricades not only enhances fans’ enjoyment of a concert but lowers the risk of someone being harmed or having an accident.

Well-designed barricades can prevent crowd surges, where fans are pushed toward the stage in a dangerous wave. These should be set up to allow for safe movement and easy exit in case of an emergency, while also considering accessibility.

Our clients often ask about "festival seating," or general admission standing areas, which can carry higher risk if not managed carefully. We recommend creating sections with controlled entry and exit points, and using barriers to divide large crowds into smaller, more manageable groups.

Use of Technology for Crowd Monitoring

Technology plays a growing role in crowd control, from ticketing systems that track the number of people entering the venue to surveillance tools that monitor crowd density. For instance, heat maps and drone footage can help identify overcrowded areas that need attention in real time.

Insurance companies often look favorably upon clients who adopt such technologies, as they can significantly reduce the risk of incidents. Automated systems that alert staff to potential hazards can prevent situations from escalating and provide real-time data to security teams.

Alcohol Management

Concerts where alcohol is served present additional crowd control challenges. Alcohol can heighten emotions and lead to unpredictable behavior, increasing the likelihood of accidents or altercations. For these reasons, it’s crucial that staff is well-trained in responsible serving practices, and that there are clear policies in place to manage intoxicated fans.

We often advise clients to limit the amount of alcohol each attendee can purchase at one time, while also offering plenty of food and water to help counteract the effects of drinking. Visible security near alcohol areas and restrooms can also deter inappropriate behavior.

Post-Event Crowd Dispersal

The end of a concert can present one of the biggest crowd control challenges, as thousands of people try to leave the venue at the same time. Having a plan for orderly exit routes is crucial. Event organizers should stagger the exiting of fans when possible, or offer incentives for fans to leave in waves, such as post-show entertainment in different areas of the venue.

It is always prudent for post-event planning to include traffic management, public transportation coordination, and sufficient lighting in parking lots or pedestrian walkways. These measures not only improve safety but also reduce the chance of post-event claims for accidents or altercations.

Get Concert/Tour/Festival Insurance | Tour Liability Insurance Canada

If you are organizing a concert, tour or festival, consult with your insurance broker early in the planning process to ensure your crowd control strategies align with your coverage. Well-managed events not only protect fans but also have adequate insurance in place in case of an unfortunate occurrence. We offer the most comprehensive Concert, Tour and Festival insurance packages in the Canadian market.

If you're interested in this coverage, please email us.

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About: Front Row Insurance Brokers Inc. is an independent insurance broker that provides musical instrument insurance at a low cost. Should a claim occur, Front Row works diligently with clients and insurers to expedite the payment. One of Front Row’s specialties is creating custom insurance packages for musicians. This can include tour liability and coverage for recording studios. Front Row has offices in Toronto, Halifax, Montreal, Vancouver, New York and LA and a staff of 50+ with a combined ~510 years of insurance experience.

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