Hiring security for an event is a main part of the event planning process that should be given serious consideration. Whether it's a corporate conference, a music festival, or a private party, professional security services provide peace of mind and a safe environment for all attendees. Fahrenheit Security specialises in offering the best event security solutions tailored to your specific event needs.
Why Professional Security is Essential
Prevention of Incidents: The presence of trained event security personnel acts as a deterrent to potential troublemakers. They help in preventing incidents before they occur by maintaining a visible security presence and being vigilant about potential threats.
Emergency Handling: In the event of an emergency, such as a medical incident or fire, professional security personnel are trained to manage the situation effectively, ensuring a quick and orderly response.
Enhanced Professionalism: Having professional security at your event enhances its overall image. Security at an event are often the first point of contact for attendees, and their professionalism reflects positively on your event management capabilities.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that there are dedicated professionals handling security allows event organizers to focus on other aspects of the event, reducing stress and improving the overall event experience.
Purpose of the Guide
This guide aims to provide comprehensive information on where to hire security for an event, focusing on assessing your security needs, choosing licensed personnel, understanding costs and finding the right security company. Fahrenheit Security is dedicated to helping you make an informed decision based on these aspects to ensure your event is safe and successful.
Assessing Your Security Needs
When planning an event, a thorough assessment of your security needs is crucial to ensure the safety and smooth operation of the event. Here's a detailed approach to help you determine the right security measures:
1. Understanding the Event Type and Size
Different events have unique security requirements. For example, a corporate conference will have different needs compared to a music festival or a political rally. The size of the event also impacts security needs significantly. Larger events require more security personnel to manage the crowd effectively and ensure safety.
2. Evaluating the Venue and Location
The layout and location of the venue play a critical role in determining security needs. Factors to consider include:
Venue Layout: Identify key areas such as entry and exit points, high-traffic zones, and any potentially vulnerable spots.
Location: Events in high-crime areas or remote locations may require additional security measures and personnel.
3. Identifying Potential Risks
Conduct a comprehensive risk assessment to identify potential hazards and threats specific to your event. Common risks include:
Crowd Control: Managing large crowds to prevent overcrowding and maintain order.
Alcohol Consumption: Events serving alcohol may require more security to handle potential issues related to intoxication.
High-Profile Guests: Events featuring VIPs or celebrities need specialized security to ensure their safety and privacy.
4. Determining the Number of Security Personnel Needed
General guidelines suggest one security guard per 100 attendees, but this ratio can vary based on the event's specific needs and risk factors. Larger or higher-risk events may require a higher guard-to-attendee ratio.
5. Planning for Emergency Situations
Develop a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes:
Clear Evacuation Routes: Ensure all exits are clearly marked and accessible.
Medical Assistance: Have medical personnel on standby and ensure all security staff are trained in basic first aid.
Communication Plan: Establish a communication system for coordinating between security staff and event organizers during an emergency (HSE, SafetyCulture).
By carefully assessing these aspects, you can create a robust security plan tailored to your event's specific needs, ensuring a safe and successful experience for all attendees.
Choosing Licensed and Certified Personnel
Hiring licensed and certified security personnel is crucial to ensure the safety and legal compliance of your event. Here's why it's important and how to select the right professionals:
1. Importance of SIA Licensing
In the UK, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) regulates the private security industry and mandates that all security personnel must hold a valid SIA license. This ensures that they have undergone rigorous training and background checks, making them qualified to handle security tasks effectively. Using unlicensed security staff not only increases the risk of poor performance but can also result in legal consequences and reputational damage.
2. Conducting Thorough Background Checks
Thorough background checks are essential to verify the credentials and past employment history of security personnel. This includes checking for criminal records and ensuring that the candidates have a clean history. Reliable security companies will provide detailed vetting processes to ensure all personnel are trustworthy and capable.
3. Evaluating Training and Experience
Professional security personnel must undergo extensive training in various areas, including emergency response, conflict resolution, and first aid. Continuous professional development ensures that they stay updated with the latest security protocols and technologies. Companies like Fahrenheit Security emphasise the importance of ongoing training and certifications such as the Certified Protection Professional (CPP) to maintain high standards.
4. Verifying Insurance Coverage
Adequate insurance coverage is vital to protect against potential liabilities. This includes public liability insurance and professional indemnity insurance, which cover incidents such as property damage or personal injury that might occur during the event. Hiring a company that provides well-insured personnel adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
5. Looking for Professionalism and Customer Service
The professionalism of security personnel is reflected in their conduct, appearance, and ability to handle various situations with calm and authority. Good communication skills are also essential for interacting with event attendees and other staff members. Companies that prioritize customer service ensure that their security personnel not only protect but also enhance the overall experience of the event.
By focusing on these aspects, you can ensure that you hire qualified and reliable security personnel, providing a safe and secure environment for your event.
Understanding Costs
Determining the cost of hiring security for an event involves various factors that can influence the overall budget. Here’s a detailed breakdown to help you plan effectively:
1. Factors Influencing Security Costs
Event Size and Type: The size and type of your event significantly impact security costs. Larger events like music festivals or high-profile conferences generally require more personnel, which increases costs. Smaller events may need fewer guards but might still incur higher rates depending on specific needs.
Duration of the Event: The length of time the event runs also affects costs. Longer events naturally incur higher expenses due to the extended hours of security coverage required.
Location: The location of your event plays a crucial role in cost determination. Events in high-crime areas or major cities like London might have higher security rates compared to those in rural or low-crime areas.
Experience and Training of Personnel: More experienced and highly trained security personnel will generally command higher fees. This is because they bring specialized skills and expertise, ensuring better handling of various security scenarios.
Specific Duties and Services: Different security roles come with varying costs. For instance, general security officers may cost less than door supervisors, and specialized roles like close protection or cash and valuables in transit will be more expensive due to the higher level of risk and skill involved.
2. Typical Costs for Event Security Services
Here is the average cost for event security personnel:
One Off Event Security Guard: From £20 per hour (minimum hours apply)
3. Additional Considerations
Package Deals: Some security firms offer package deals that might include a combination of services like mobile patrols, alarm response, and keyholding. These can be more cost-effective for comprehensive security needs
Long-term vs. Short-term Contracts: Long-term security contracts often come at a reduced hourly rate compared to short-term or one-off event security services. This is due to economies of scale and better resource planning by the security firm.
By understanding these factors and typical costs, you can budget more effectively for your event's security needs. For an accurate quote tailored to your specific event, it’s advisable to contact several security providers, outline your requirements, and compare their offers.
Finding the Right Security Company
Selecting the right security company for your event is crucial to ensure safety and smooth operations. Here’s how to choose the best provider for your needs:
1. Researching Security Companies
Begin by researching reputable security companies. Look for firms with a strong track record and positive customer testimonials. Companies like Fahrenheit Security have an established reputation and offers comprehensive security services tailored to different events .
2. Verifying Licensing and Accreditation
Ensure that the security company is only using fully licensed security guarding. In the UK, this means having Security Industry Authority (SIA) licensed personnel.
3. Evaluating Range of Services
Choose a company that offers a wide range of security services. This can include manned guarding, mobile patrols, crowd management, and advanced surveillance systems. A versatile company like Fahrenheit Security can provide tailored solutions to meet your event's specific needs, ensuring comprehensive coverage.
4. Assessing Experience and Expertise
Look for companies with extensive experience in managing events similar to yours. This includes understanding crowd dynamics, managing entry points, and handling emergencies. Companies with a long history, like Fahrenheit Security, bring valuable expertise to the table, ensuring they can handle various security scenarios effectively.
5. Customer Service and Professionalism
The professionalism of security personnel reflects on your event. Ensure that the company you choose places a high emphasis on customer service and professional conduct. Trained, courteous, and well-presented security staff can significantly enhance the attendee experience while maintaining order and safety.
6. Technology Integration
Modern security operations benefit greatly from advanced technology. Look for companies that use the latest security technologies such as CCTV, access control systems, and real-time incident reporting. Integrating these technologies ensures effective monitoring and quick response to any incidents.
By following these guidelines, you can select a security company that meets your event's needs and ensures a safe and successful experience for all attendees.
Evaluating Experience and Expertise
Evaluating the experience and expertise of potential security companies is a crucial step to ensure you hire a reliable and competent provider. Here’s how to assess these qualities effectively:
1. Review Company History and Reputation
Start by examining the company's history and reputation. Look for firms with a long-standing presence in the industry and a track record of successfully managing events similar to yours. Reputable companies often feature client testimonials and case studies on their websites, providing insights into their capabilities and customer satisfaction
2. Check Licensing and Accreditation
Ensure that the security company and its personnel hold the necessary licenses and accreditations. In the UK, this includes Security Industry Authority (SIA) licensing, which guarantees that the staff are properly trained and vetted. Accredited companies often meet higher industry standards, such as ISO certifications for quality management
3. Assess Training and Professional Development
Evaluate the company’s commitment to training and professional development. Quality security firms invest in continuous training for their staff, covering areas such as emergency response, crowd management, and conflict resolution. This ensures that their personnel are well-prepared to handle various situations effectively,
4. Examine Client Portfolio and Case Studies
Reviewing a security company's client portfolio and case studies can provide a clear picture of their experience and expertise. Look for companies that have successfully managed events similar to yours. Detailed case studies often highlight the company’s problem-solving abilities and effectiveness in different security scenarios.
5. Verify Insurance Coverage
Ensure the security company has adequate insurance coverage, including public liability and professional indemnity insurance. This protects you from potential liabilities in case of incidents during the event. Adequate insurance is a mark of a professional and responsible security provider
6. Evaluate Range of Services
A comprehensive security company should offer a wide range of services, including manned guarding, mobile patrols, and advanced surveillance systems. This versatility allows them to address different security needs specific to your event, ensuring thorough coverage and preparedness
By following these steps, you can confidently select a security company that meets your event's specific needs and ensures a safe and secure environment for all attendees.
