Risk Assessments

[mikebass456]

One of the bands I play in is due to play at a multi-band outdoor event in July.

One of the requirements requested by the event organisers is a risk assessment.

Does anyone have any experience or advice on completing a risk assessment for such a gig?

All the PA, lights etc will be supplied by the event organisers, so it's just our own gear that needs to be considered..... 

[Mottlefeeder]

I busk in a band fundraising for Cancer Research UK, and we have to do risk assessments for every gig in order to be comply with their insurance requirements.

 

It's mainly common sense - 

Typical hazards are:

1) Cable routes not thought out - keep as many as possible out of the performance area.

2) Gear falling onto people - less of an issue if it isn't your PA.

3) Electric shock - test gear regularly and visually check each mains cable as you set up.

4) Audience members on stage (invited or not) - higher risk from trips and falls & probably not covered by your insurance, so no audience on stage.

5) Crowd surfing...etc

David

[SimonK]

I've got a template (see attached) that I've used in various situations before. I think it originally came from my University for research type things but I've used it for a local cricket club and various other public events. The idea is to identify potential risks, calculate the score based on probability x severity, say what you will do to mitigate the risk, and then calculate a new score post mitigation.

 

Risk Assessment Blank.docx

Edited March 9 by SimonK

[Jamess72]

On 09/03/2025 at 14:42, mikebass456 said:

One of the bands I play in is due to play at a multi-band outdoor event in July.

One of the requirements requested by the event organisers is a risk assessment.

Does anyone have any experience or advice on completing a risk assessment for such a gig?

All the PA, lights etc will be supplied by the event organisers, so it's just our own gear that needs to be considered..... 

For your gig, the risk assessment will focus mainly on your own gear. Make sure everything is in good condition, especially electrical equipment, with no exposed wires or faulty plugs. Be mindful of potential trip hazards from cables, and ensure they’re securely taped down or out of the way. Also, check that your equipment is stable and won’t tip over. Since it’s outdoors, you’ll want to consider weather conditions and how wind or rain could affect your gear, and maybe plan for some kind of shelter just in case.

[MuddBass]

The HSE have blank templates that you can complete, along with lots of useful advice. 

 

https://www.hse.gov.uk/simple-health-safety/risk/risk-assessment-template-and-examples.htm

 

 

Edited March 17 by MuddBass