It doesn’t seem two minutes since the last bank holiday; but the final Bank Holiday Monday of the season is just around the corner. Bank Holidays can be fantastic for business. More customers events for longer can only be good news for your bottom line. But more customers and events also means more risk.
And more potential claimants.
A large claim could ruin your bank holiday, and in the worst case scenarios, bring your event to a halt.
So in this article, we’re going to look at the insurance and legislation considerations that you must take into account to keep your events claim free over the Bank Holiday weekend.
Talk to us
If you’re planning on hosting a Bank Holiday event, then make sure you let your insurer know.
There’s every chance that your insurance policy is already tailored to cover the event, but it’s definitely better to be safe than sorry. In our experience, we’ve seen too many events fall foul and ending up at risk, and more worringly, out of pocket.
We’re experts in understanding the fine print of an insurance policy and can therefore offer you the best advice.
Contractors and Equipment
At this time of year, it’s common for events to hire extra entertainment to help draw the crowds or keep your customers there longer. But a lot of the extra elements you can add to your event, might had hazards and risks that you’re not used to.
If you are hiring hazardous equipment or attractions, it’s imperative that you make sure that all equipment has a full check and service history carried out by a qualified professional. It’s also important that the equipment, and anyone tasked with running it on the day, has its/their own insurance.
You should request a copy of the public liability certificate from any contractors. If you’re unsure whether it’s valid or the liability limit is adequate, we’d be happy to take a look for you.
Risk Assessments and Health and Safety
All entertainment events are classed as work, as are most activities associated with them, so your event will be subject to the Health & Safety at work act. This covers and any staff working the event, or volunteers, who are classed as employees for the purposes of Employers Liability and Health & Safety legislation.
Risk assessments and proper risk management are vital in the avoidance of any claims – especially considering changes to the sentencing for gross negligence manslaughter claims.
As the event organiser, you have a duty to ensure that all areas of your premises and any equipment on it, is safe and won’t cause harm to any staff or visitor.
We mentioned risk assessments and risk management in the same breath, as both are virtually null and void without the other.
Again, we’re experts in Risk Management, so if you need any help in devising a risk management strategy for your event, we’re happy to help.
As far as legislation is concerned, it’s also worth checking whether your need a Temporary Event Notice from the local licensing authority.
Other Points to Consider:
• Have you alerted the local Fire Prevention Officer to make sure that any increase in customers or the use of new equipment isn’t causing a fire hazard?
• Are buildings if used large enough to accommodate the number of visitors you’re anticipating?
• Are your evacuation plans still applicable for the event?
• Is there space for emergency vehicles to enter and park?
• Are there plenty of fire extinguishers?
• What additional equipment are contractors bringing that may cause fire or slip and trip hazards?
Drunkenness
Hopefully, your event will go swimmingly and your customers will spend lots of money at your bar. Please remember however, that while drunkenness is expected, it is illegal for bar staff to purposely supply alcohol to anyone who is obviously drunk or disorderly.
In the best case scenario, your club will get a telling off and a fine. In the worst cases, you could have your license investigated.
If you’re concerned that you haven’t considered every risk management and legislative possibility, you can contact our team today. Our friendly staff will talk you through your obligations and help to ensure that your bank holiday runs smoothly.
