Festivals & high holy days Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Food stalls or refreshments — Require stallholders to hold valid food hygiene certification, inspect handwashing access, check refrigeration temperatures, segregate raw/cooked food prep, ensure allergen signage, and monitor waste disposal. Keep serving zones away from exits.
• Large congregations — Create a capacity plan with clear seating/standing zones, appoint trained stewards to direct flow, mark all exits, and use counters to prevent overcrowding. Prepare an overflow space with livestream or loudspeaker access for late arrivals.
• Processions on roads or through towns — Plan route with local authorities, obtain permits, set barriers and traffic marshals at crossings, use high-vis clothing for stewards, and brief participants on walking order. Have first aiders and police liaison present throughout procession.
• Cold exposure in winter events — Encourage participants to bring blankets or layered clothing, provide heated indoor space or outdoor heaters, lay grit on icy paths, shorten outdoor elements, and assign stewards to check regularly on elderly or vulnerable participants.
• Volunteer fatigue — Prepare rota with defined shift lengths, build in meal/rest breaks, provide refreshments, and rotate roles to prevent strain. Ensure briefing/debriefing sessions for morale and monitor wellbeing of younger or less experienced volunteers.