Managing Crowds for Safety and Security
Introduction to Crowd Management for Event Security
Effective crowd management represents one of the most fundamental aspects of providing event security. Security contractors are often tasked with developing a crowd management strategy, while their security guards bear ultimate responsibility for implementing it during the event. When a crowd goes out of control, it can happen rapidly and have devastating, even fatal, consequences.
In this post, we are taking a comprehensive look at crowd management and the tools, techniques and strategies used by security contractors and their personnel to ensure that crowds are managed effectively to deliver a safe, successful and enjoyable experience for all involved. We will be covering:
- Real-world examples of when things go wrong
- The psychology behind crowd surges
- Security contactor roles and responsibilities
- Pre-event planning
- Ticketing and admission
- Weapon and prohibited item checks
- Zoning and barriers
- Security guard roles, ratios and deployment
What happens when things go wrong?
Any event that attracts large crowds has the potential for tragic consequences when a crowd management strategy fails. From music concerts by bands like The Who and The Rolling Stones to sporting events and street festivals, crowd management failure can have devastating consequences. Here are 4 examples of what happens when things go wrong:
- On 29 October 2022, a crowd surge during Halloween festivities in the Itaewon neighbourhood of Seoul, South Korea, killed 159 people and injured a further 196. The victims were mostly young adults; 27 of the victims were foreign nationals.
- In 1985, during the European Cup Final football match between Liverpool and Juventus in Brussels, Belgium, an outbreak of violence occurred before the match when Liverpool supporters breached a barrier separating them from some Juventus supporters. The Juventus fans were pushed toward a crumbling concrete retaining wall. The wall collapsed under the pressure, leading to a crush that killed 39 spectators (mostly Italians and Juventus fans) and injured over 600 others.
- In 2021, during the Astroworld Music Festival in Houston, ten people died from compressive asphyxia when the crowd surged toward the stage. Subsequent reports cited failure to stop the show, inadequate planning, and security issues like high-density crowd conditions.
- And of course, many people still remember and suffer the trauma of being present at Hillsborough when 97 Liverpool fans died in a crush during an FA Cup semi-final. The tragedy was mainly caused by poor crowd control measures, including the decision to open an exit gate, which allowed a large influx of fans to charge into already overcrowded standing areas. High fences prevented people from escaping the surge.
Understanding Crowd Behaviour: The Surge
Crowd surges are the single biggest cause of fatalities during events. Crowd movement patterns can shift from orderly to chaotic in an instant. Research shows that crowds tend to move in wave-like patterns, with individuals often following the actions of those around them due to a herd mentality. Stressful situations, or when people perceive that they are in danger, lead to panic responses like surges that can quickly get out of control.
To understand effective crowd management, you first need to understand that crowds generally pay attention to what lies ahead of them while remaining unaware of conditions behind them. This forward-focused attention means that when crowds reach bottlenecks such as exits, barriers or staircases, movement naturally slows, causing people pushing from behind to force forward momentum on those at the front. Crowd surges can generate enough force to bend steel barriers or topple brick and concrete walls. People at the front can face life-threatening chest compression that prevents breathing and the risk of being trampled.
The Role of the Security Contractor: From Planning to Completion
Appointing a security contractor during the early stages of planning an event is a wise choice. Although not solely responsible for the event security and crowd management strategy, they do bring a unique perspective based on substantial experience with large-scale events. Having the security contractor represented and contributing to your planning group is an important part of a strategic and coordinated approach.
Pre-Event Planning
- Security company representatives join planning meetings with organisers, the local council, and emergency services. They work out what could go wrong, such as overcrowding, blocked exits, or unwanted guests.
- An in-depth venue inspection identifies potential security risks like hidden corners, squeeze points, poor lighting, or dangerous structures. If they spot problems, they say what needs fixing to ensure physical safety.
- Security guards will be issued with a plan of the site with key details like entry and exit points, emergency routes, and important areas like first aid or restricted sections clearly indicated.
- Decisions are made as to who is responsible for which tasks. This might include controlling the entrances, managing the flow of people or responding to emergencies.
By doing all this ahead of time, the event can proceed with clear directions and good communication, to keep everyone protected from the moment doors open.
Managing Crowds: The Logical Approach
Crowd management for event safety follows a logical order, starting with working out the maximum venue capacity and ensuring that ticket availability is kept strictly within that capacity. Following this, it should be decided how tickets are to be issued and the most accurate and expedient way of checking and authorising them on admission.
The Latest on Ticketing and Admission
The latest technology in use for ticketing and admission not only makes events more secure but also ensures that the process of verifying and admitting attendees into a venue is as quick and stress-free as possible. Long queues are not only a source of frustration and flare-ups; they also detract from ensuring that the overall experience for attendees is an enjoyable one.
The latest advances in event ticketing and admission verification make entry faster, safer, and much harder to cheat. These new systems are now being used at major venues and festivals across the UK and worldwide. Here are the top technologies in use:
Mobile and QR Code Tickets
- Most entry systems now use digital tickets that are stored on smartphones. People get a QR code by email or in an event app, which is scanned at the gate for fast, paperless entry.
- QR codes are encrypted for security and only work once. This means tickets cannot be faked or shared easily between people.
- Security staff use scanners or perhaps a mobile phone to instantly verify tickets and track who is inside the venue.
NFC Wristbands and Passes
- Many big events now use NFC (Near Field Communication) passes or wristbands. Guests just tap their band or phone at entry points for instant admission.
- NFC passes are much harder to copy than traditional tickets, which keeps out unwanted guests and fights ticket fraud.
- NFC wristbands are used at festivals like Coachella and football matches such as the UEFA Champions League. They let organisers see entry stats in real-time and support cashless payments at bars or stands.
Facial Recognition and Biometric Systems
- Some events, especially high-security ones, use facial recognition at the entrance. Attendees upload a photo during registration, then a camera matches their face when they arrive.
- This system is touch-free and very quick. It nearly eliminates queue times and stops fake tickets. Only people who registered can enter.
- Facial ID is being trialled at trade shows, stadiums, and some music festivals. Data protection rules must be followed to keep attendees’ information safe.
Multi-Gate and Real-Time Sync
- New ticketing platforms support entry at multiple gates, with tickets being checked and synced instantly. Once someone’s ticket is used, it cannot be used at another gate.
- Live analytics show organisers how many people are inside the venue, which helps indicate crowd jams, allowing safety teams or backup staffto respond quickly to problems.
Blockchain and NFT Ticketing
- Blockchain-based ticketing systems are starting to appear at major festivals and expos. These tickets have unique record IDs and can’t be lost or copied.
- Organisers can sell tickets as NFTs, which improves security and allows for verified resale. These platforms also handle access control with smart wristbands or digital wallets like the Google Digital Wallet
These technologies greatly reduce fraud, make admission faster, and give organisers better control over who enters. They are now standard at major UK events and increasingly common worldwide, helping make events safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Baggage and Personal Checks
When the event security plan has deemed it necessary to conduct checks for weapons or prohibited items, there are a number of ways the process can be sped up and made less intrusive, both with and without complex technology.
Random and Targeted Screening
Instead of checking everyone the same way, security officers may randomly select people for extra checks, which helps reduce waiting and adds an element of unpredictability for anyone trying to bypass security. People chosen for a check can be diverted to a separate lane to ensure that the rest of the admission queue is processed quickly.
Handheld Detectors and Rapid Pat-Downs
Guards use handheld metal detectors for quick, respectful checks if needed. Only a small number of visitors are asked for a brief pat-down, usually when something has made an alert security guard suspicious.
Walk-Through AI and Sensor Systems
New walk-through portals like the CEIA Opengate use advanced sensors to spot weapons and metal objects quickly, without visitors needing to empty their pockets or bags. People just walk through at normal speed. Portable plug-and-play setups are available along with smartphone apps that allow security staff to receive feeds and control the technology. These systems are touch-free, making them more hygienic and less intimidating for attendees.
Non-Intrusive X-Ray Screening
Bags are placed on conveyor belts fitted with non-intrusive X-ray machines designed for high-volume events. Advanced X-ray tech powered by AI scans up to 1300 bags per hour and flags suspicious items for further checks, meaning most people pass through with no delay. This is pretty much non-intrusive as there is no need to open bags unless the machine spots something unusual, helping keep queues moving.
Zoning and Barrier Placement
Using zoning together with physical barriers is a proven way to protect restricted areas and manage the flow of people at events in the UK and across Europe
How it Works
Events are divided into zones such as public spaces, VIP areas, backstage, technical control rooms, and emergency routes. Each zone has its own access rules, so only those with permission can enter it. A zoning and physical barrier plan will be worked out at the initial planning stages and might be honed and adjusted when applying it to the actual venue
Zones are clearly marked with signs and colour-coded maps. This helps guests, security staff, and emergency services know where they are and where they should go when attending an incident.
Using Physical Barriers
Physical barriers can be anything from a rope and post setup used for simply directing flow to full anti-crush barriers. Barriers are placed around restricted zones to stop unauthorised access and guide people along safe routes. Common types include metal crowd barriers, temporary fencing, and stronger barriers for higher-risk areas. Barriers are also used to make clear walkways, queue areas, and keep crowds away from stages or important equipment. A useful tip is that adjustable feet and flat bases on barriers reduce trip hazards and allow quick adjustments if needed during the event.
Managing the Flow of People
Barriers and zoning combine to keep crowds moving in the right direction, preventing bottlenecks or dangerous build-ups. Security guards, stewards and signs work alongside barriers to guide people smoothly from entrance to exit. Emergency paths are left clear and protected by barriers. This makes it easier for fire or ambulance crews to reach people quickly if something goes wrong.
Barrier placement and zoning must be carefully planned for each event, based on attendance, venue layout, and risk level. This approach keeps everyone safe, avoids confusion, and makes restricted areas more secure.
Deployment and Placement of Security Guards
Following best practices for deploying and placing security guards properly is key to event safety and crowd management. The focus should be on ensuring that there is an adequate number of well-trained and experienced guards, making those guards highly visible, positioning them at critical points, and ensuring that they can respond quickly should problems arise.
Security Guard Placement
- Place guards at all entry and exit points so they can control admission, check tickets, and spot any banned items. These are the busiest areas at most events and always need a strong presence.
- Position guards along barriers, near stages, VIP areas, and restricted zones to prevent unauthorised access.
- Place staff where crowds are thickest, such as around toilets, bars, and food stalls, as well as in open areas where people might gather or queue.
- Assign some guards to patrol the perimeter to prevent anyone from trying to sneak in
- Have mobile or “floating” guards who can move to any area that gets busy or to support colleagues dealing with incidents if needed.
Recommendations for Guard Visibility and Communication
- Guards should be in uniform and easily recognisable, reassuring guests and acting as a visible deterrent to troublemakers.
- Set up security stations that are clearly marked. Guests can visit these for help or to report problems.
- Ensure that venue-wide communications allow guards to communicate with each other and any advanced technology in use
Staffing Levels and Ratios
A common guide is one security guard for every 100 attendees at a typical event, but this can vary depending on the risk profile, availability of alcohol, event type, and venue layout.
For events with alcohol or higher risks, ratios may be increased to one guard per 50–75 people. Read more about security staffing ratios in our dedicated blog post on the subject
The aim is to have enough guards to be everywhere needed, without leaving gaps anywhere crowds might build up. A good deployment strategy means guests feel safe, crowds stay calm, and staff can stop trouble before it starts. Adequate cover is what can make the difference between a safe, enjoyable event and a risky one.
Rotations and Training
- Rotate guards through different positions to keep them alert and well-informed about the whole site.
- Brief and keep the security team updated before and during the event. Make sure supervisors are readily available to offer guidance when dealing with difficult situations
- Make sure both male and female guards are on duty so searches can be done respectfully if needed.
Final Security Contractor Event Preparation
Pre-Event Inspection
Pre-event venue inspections are not just a general safety inspection; they are the last check on the readiness of the venue, security systems and security personnel to ensure that everything is in place for maximum safety and security of performers and attendees.
In essence, the security contractor’s pre-event inspection ensures the physical environment aligns perfectly with the security plan and everything is ready to manage the crowd and respond to any and all incidents.
| Aspect | Specific Security Personnel Duties |
| Physical Security Assessment & Risk Identification | Confirm Secure Zoning: Inspect and secure all restricted zones (backstage, VIP areas, control rooms, cash handling areas, equipment storage) to ensure only authorised personnel can access them. |
| Access Control Points | Inspect and Test Systems: Check that all fixed and temporary CCTV cameras are operational, positioned correctly to cover critical areas, and feeding to the control room. Ensure communication devices (radios) are tested and operational, and that smartphones have the apps installed that connect staff to technology. |
| Emergency Exits and Egress | Verify and Clear Emergency Routes: Walk all primary and emergency evacuation routes. Confirm that all emergency exit doors are functional, clearly marked, and are not blocked or chained. Ensure the path from the exit to the safe assembly area is clear. |
| Surveillance and Monitoring | Inspect and Test Systems: Check that all fixed and temporary CCTV cameras are operational, positioned correctly to cover critical areas, and feeding to the control room. Ensure communication devices (radios) are tested and operational and that smartphones have the apps installed that connect staff to technology. |
| Crowd Management Infrastructure | Inspect and Test Systems: Check that all fixed and temporary CCTV cameras are operational, positioned correctly to cover critical areas, and feeding to the control room. Ensure communication devices (radios) are tested and operational, and that smartphones have the apps installed that connect staff to technology. |
| Restricted Areas | Preventing Unauthorised Access: Ensure that all restricted areas are identified and adequately protected using barriers and posting security staff |
| Emergency Protocols & Training | Finalise and Brief: Review the Emergency Response Plan (ERP) with the event safety manager. Ensure all security personnel are thoroughly briefed on their specific roles for scenarios like fire, medical emergency, crowd control, or active security incidents. |
| Coordination | Liaise with Authorities: Confirm the established communication channels and final protocols for coordination with external local law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical services (EMS). |
Conclusions
Crowd management saves lives.
A well-constructed event security strategy brings together careful planning, smart use of technology, robust access controls, physical zoning, and skilled security guards in all the right places.
Starting with clear risk assessments and pre-event checks, organisers use modern ticketing, unobtrusive screening, and well-thought-out barrier placement to control access and protect restricted areas.
Effective crowd management relies on real-time monitoring, quick crisis response, physical security measures and visible, trained and prepared security staff who are always supported by good communication and supervision. When all these elements work as one, events are safer, crowds move smoothly, and every guest, performer, and staff member is reassured by the security strategy.
