Security Crowd Control Procedures and Solutions

Fortunately, in Australia standards within the security industry have been tightened over the years.  Response One Security and Surveillance (R1 Security) has always maintained a high level of training and standard operating procedures as part of the company’s culture.

However, it is now mandatory for those in the security industry to be certified, thus cleaning the industry and taking the “cowboys” off the streets.

In the past, we have seen situations where bouncers, employed to maintain security have over-reacted with levels of force where serious injury has followed.  Part of being in charge of a situation is knowing how to respond accordingly, and this takes initial training followed by experience. A level head is important, thinking on your feet and being observant to potential threats.

Security Presence at Major Events

Major events attract crowds.  Whether it is the Royal Melbourne Show, a footy game or the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, each has its own security risks and challenges.  Having the right crew is paramount in controlling situations that may be potentially volatile.

For example, even though CHOGM may by comparison to the grand final attract smaller crowds the risks may be more serious.  The potential risk for CHOGM may be the presence of agitators, intent on making political statements.  These groups may be smaller in number but may have a formulated plan to cause disruption, damage to property or present a personal threat. Security cameras have become a recognised deterrent and are a valuable part of collecting information.

What is the role of Crowd Control

Crowd control means protecting life and property. Alcohol, drugs and sometimes even the weather changes the behaviour of people.  People crowded into smaller areas can change the behaviour from individualistic into a “mob” behaviour mentality. You cannot negotiate with someone who is affected by drugs, alcohol or who has mental health issues. However, by the same token you cannot take a heavy- handed approach.

The level of force cannot be more than necessary to deal with the level of the threat imposed.  Now, this is very subjective and is judged in the courtroom, if the Police Officer, Security Guard or Crowd Control Personnel exceed their jurisdiction and overstep that reaction to the threat.  The objective is to keep a level head, acting within the guidelines of the company’s protocol and the law and defusing a situation.

Response One Security and Surveillance (R1 Security) works in conjunction with the organisers, taking into account, exit points, the number of anticipated attendees, the expected “type of attendees”, the weather, the time of the event, the type of event, traffic, both foot and by vehicle

There is no one size fits all in Security Management

Qualified Crowd Control Security Personnel is only one part of the jigsaw when implementing crowd control procedures.  Management of the situation is a number one priority and this takes planning.

Years of working in the industry gives Response One Security and Surveillance the edge.

Equipment for Crowd Control

Crowd control barriers are often used to segregate and direct the flow of pedestrians and vehicles.

Security Cameras placed strategically in “high risk” areas act as deterrents and also provide evidence and information after the fact.

Pre-entry search admissions are often used to prevent banned substances or weapons being brought into the event.

 

Prevention is best.  Call Response One Security and Surveillance for a confidential Security Risk Assessment.

E: admin@r1security.net

www.r1security.net

1800 800 476