Bonfires and Fireworks Displays Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Adverse weather conditions — Monitor weather conditions leading up to and during the event. Have contingency plans for delaying or rescheduling if wind speeds exceed safe limits or heavy rain occurs. Provide attendees with regular updates.
• Overcrowding & crowd control hazards — Calculate anticipated attendance and provide ample space to avoid overcrowding. Deploy marshals to guide movement and use barriers to manage queues, designate separate vehicle/pedestrian areas, and provide overflow parking or shuttle services if appropriate.
• Inadequate site layout — Designate a large, open area with clearly defined zones: a firing area (at least 25m from spectators), a fallout zone (50m downwind), and an exclusion zone. Erect barriers and use clear signage to keep attendees at a safe distance.
• Structural collapse of viewing platforms — Inspect all temporary structures thoroughly before the event, ensuring they comply with safety standards. Limit the number of people allowed on platforms at any time and provide clear weight capacity signage.
• Excessive smoke — Position the audience upwind of bonfire/firing areas, provide warnings for those with respiratory conditions, allow safe spacing, and use lighting to maintain visibility if smoke drifts. Build bonfires only with dry, untreated wood and avoid plastics, damp materials, or fuel types that produce high levels of smoke.