Festivals & high holy days Risk Assessment Template

Typical hazards & measures

• Security threats or disruptive behaviour — Appoint security stewards, brief on de-escalation techniques, install CCTV where lawful, maintain close contact with police, and keep restricted backstage zones. Establish emergency evacuation routes and rehearse responses with staff.
• Noise impact on local community — Measure sound levels with decibel meters, direct speakers away from residential areas, restrict evening timings, liaise with neighbours before events, and adjust sound checks to avoid nuisance. Provide a hotline for complaints on the day.
• Lost children or dependents — Establish a clearly marked ‘lost child’ point and provide children with identification or contact wristbands. Train all vetted staff to follow incident protocols, use discreet alert systems, and rehearse safe reunification procedures in line with safeguarding policies.
• Overflow parking demand — Negotiate use of nearby fields, schools, or halls for overflow parking, employ stewards in high-vis to manage flow, signpost routes, provide accessible drop-off points, and coordinate with police or councils on road closures or traffic orders.
• Shared communion or food rituals — Train volunteers in hygiene, provide handwashing and sanitiser stations, avoid shared cups where possible, and label allergens. Ensure waste is disposed of respectfully. Conduct pre-event allergen and infection-control risk checks.