How many security staff do I need for my event?

It’s the first question most organisers ask us, and the honest answer is: it depends. There isn’t one number that fits every event. Here’s what decides it.

What changes the number

Four things matter most:

• How many people are coming. More people means more staff, but not in a straight line.

• Who is coming. A family show is very different from a late-night music event.

• The site. Lots of entrances, open fields, water or a long perimeter all need more people than one closed hall.

• Alcohol, ticketing and timings. Bars, late finishes and bag searches all add work.

Stewards and security aren’t the same

Stewards guide people, answer questions and keep routes clear. Security staff do licensed work, such as searching, door supervision and dealing with trouble. Many events need both. Security staff who do licensed work must hold a valid SIA licence.

Who sets the minimum

Your premises licence conditions, your event risk assessment, and sometimes the council, police or a safety advisory group may all ask for certain numbers [confirm wording]. Start by checking what your licence already says.

How we work it out

We don’t hand over a number from a chart. We ask about your site, your crowd and your timings, walk the site if we can, and build a plan around the risks. Then we put the right mix of people in the right places.

Planning an event?

Tell us about it and we’ll talk you through what you’re likely to need. Give us a cal on 01733 661149 or fill out our contact form.