Managing large numbers of people to prevent stampedes or bottlenecks; handling disorderly conduct, fights, or disturbances among attendees; ensuring only authorised individuals enter restricted areas; protecting attendees’ items from pickpockets; providing first aid; organising emergency evacuations – the list of responsibilities for an event security firm is endless.
That is why choosing the right company is a strategic decision that can determine the success or failure of a show or presentation.
The major problem is that, at first glance, these companies may all seem the same. However, the truth is that there are significant differences in terms of experience, team qualifications, and safety approaches.
Before hiring an event security firm, it is crucial to evaluate five criteria: experience, reputation, certifications, costs, and location.
Experience is precious in event security management. After all, the pressure on the staff increases proportionally with the size of the audience. The larger the crowd, the greater the potential for incidents and challenges to the security team.
More experienced companies will know how to handle troublemakers and quickly identify the vulnerabilities of the event space and its participants. The more experienced a company is, the faster it can identify and anticipate potential problems.
Once you have assessed the company’s experience, it’s time to check its reputation. Years of experience are worthless if accompanied by failures, brutality, or poor relationships with clients.
To evaluate the company’s reputation, check online reviews and seek feedback from previous clients. Additionally, inquire about the client retention rate. Companies that provide good service are often rehired by the same clients repeatedly.
Furthermore, ask participants if they enjoyed themselves and felt safe. After all, the goal of hiring an event security firm is to ensure that the audience feels secure and welcomed. The staff should be professional, courteous, and efficient, contributing to a positive image of the gathering.
Training is essential in any activity, and in the case of event security, it is a requirement that should never be neglected. The best way to evaluate the quality of the training received by the staff is by asking about their accreditations.
Accreditations ensure that a security firm adheres to industry standards and best practices. Organisations such as the Security Industry Authority (SIA) in the UK set rigorous standards for training, conduct, and operational procedures.
The accreditation process often involves compliance with local, national, and international laws and regulations. This ensures that the firm operates within the legal framework, reducing the risk of legal issues arising during or after the event.
When considering costs, it’s essential to strike a balance between ensuring safety and managing expenses effectively. After all, safety is paramount, and cutting corners on security can have serious consequences. However, overpaying doesn’t necessarily equate to better service.
The rule of thumb here is to prefer bespoke quotations over fixed rates and pay only for what you need. When a company offers a customised quote, you can be assured that the firm will conduct a thorough assessment of your event, including the venue, expected attendance, and specific risks, to provide an accurate and fair estimate. That’s why you should avoid companies that offer one-size-fits-all pricing.
Discuss potential discounts if you can agree on other services the firm offers that you might need, such as security consulting, risk assessments, or ongoing contracts. Some companies may offer bundled services at a reduced rate, which can include event management, surveillance, and emergency response planning.
It’s also important to consider that the event security firm has its own costs. Obtaining accreditations, for example, is a laborious process, and therefore, it’s natural for these companies to charge more for their services compared to companies without proper training.
The security firm must have in-depth knowledge of the area where the event is taking place. Local businesses are often familiar with popular venues, local authorities, and emergency services, enabling them to coordinate more effectively and respond swiftly to any issues.
Moreover, hiring a local business can significantly reduce travel and accommodation expenses for security personnel. Furthermore, local companies often offer more competitive pricing compared to larger national firms, which might charge a premium for covering areas outside their usual range.
Once you have done your due diligence, you will find out that Stage Security is East Anglia’s best event security firm.
Stage Security’s specialisation in East Anglia means we have a deep understanding of the region’s unique challenges and logistical considerations. Our proximity allows for more frequent site visits and assessments, ensuring thorough planning and preparation.
We have 23 years of experience providing security services to our clients, with an enviable retention rate.
We prioritise rigorous vetting and comprehensive training for all our staff. Licensed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), our team undergoes extensive in-house training to ensure they operate with efficiency and politeness, upholding the highest standards of professionalism.
Reach out to discuss your event’s specific needs and requirements.