Large Event Crowd Safety and Crush Prevention Checklist

Crowd crushes have killed hundreds at events worldwide. This checklist follows Event Safety Alliance guidelines and Fruin crowd density principles to identify and prevent dangerous crowd conditions before they become fatal.

  • Industry: Events & Entertainment
  • Frequency: Per Event (Ongoing During Event)
  • Estimated Time: 30-45 minutes
  • Role: Crowd Safety Manager / Event Director
  • Total Items: 24

Crowd Density Monitoring

Monitor crowd density throughout the event.

  • Crowd density monitoring system active (cameras, spotters, clickers)?
  • High-density hotspots identified and actively monitored?
  • Crowd density intervention thresholds defined and communicated to team?
  • Elevated viewing point for crowd monitoring available?

Crowd Flow Management

Manage crowd flow throughout the event.

  • Designated ingress and egress flow routes established and communicated?
  • Counter-flow of crowds into same routes prevented?
  • Identified pinch points managed with crowd control?
  • Flow monitored continuously with ability to redirect crowds?

Barrier and Pit Management

Verify barrier and pit management.

  • All crowd control barriers rated for lateral crowd pressure forces?
  • Pit or photo area managed with trained crowd safety staff?
  • Crowd extraction protocol established for distressed individuals at barriers?
  • Crowd catchers stationed at stage barriers for crowd surfing events?

Early Warning Signs

Monitor for early warning signs of crowd safety issues.

  • Security trained to recognize crowd compression signs (involuntary movement, crowd sway)?
  • Process for extracting distressed individuals quickly from dense crowd?
  • Protocol for communicating crowd safety issues to artist to pause performance?
  • Show pause or stop protocol agreed with artist management before show?

Entry and Exit Management

Verify entry and exit management.

  • Gates open early enough to prevent dangerous queue buildup?
  • Multiple entry points to distribute crowd rather than concentrate?
  • Phased exit plan to prevent dangerous exit rush?
  • Crowd allowed to begin dispersing before final artist ends to reduce exit crush?

Command and Communication

Verify command and communication for crowd safety.

  • Designated crowd safety commander with authority to activate emergency crowd measures?
  • Radio communication from crowd positions to command post?
  • PA system available for crowd guidance announcements?
  • Medical team integrated into crowd safety monitoring and response plan?

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Why Use This Large Event Crowd Safety and Crush Prevention Checklist?

This large event crowd safety and crush prevention checklist helps events & entertainment teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for crowd safety manager / event director professionals, this checklist covers 24 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event (ongoing during event).

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Large Event Crowd Safety and Crush Prevention Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 24 inspection items across 6 sections: Crowd Density Monitoring, Crowd Flow Management, Barrier and Pit Management, Early Warning Signs, Entry and Exit Management, Command and Communication. It is designed for events & entertainment operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per event (ongoing during event). Each completion takes approximately 30-45 minutes.

Who should use this Large Event Crowd Safety and Crush Prevention Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Crowd Safety Manager / Event Director professionals in the events & entertainment industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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