How many times have we heard this phrase?
Especially in more recent times, we’re not just queuing to attend our favourite event or show, but rather to get into our local supermarkets!
Queuing is something we all have to do from time to time; however, that doesn’t mean we enjoy it.
It can be an extremely tedious task; however, as the person in the queue, you’re aware that you’re relatively safe, and you will reach your destination…eventually.
For event organisers forming safe queuing systems is an art and a top priority. Areas that are clearly marked, guiding people in the right direction, and keeping everyone safe, secure, and in one manageable place.
Temporary event fencing to help with crowd safety management can offer the ultimate solution – as if we’re honest, without a fence, we can end up with meandering queues forming with no real guidance.
Benefits of temporary fencing at events
Stops queue-jumping – this is one of the biggest issues faced by those who patiently queue and event organisers. Event fencing hire helps to prevent this from happening, positioning people into nice orderly lines, with no access to queue jump!
Offers an additional security layer – this is often a necessary must if your event is outdoors and closed at certain times throughout the day or night. Stopping trespassing and opportunists from gaining access.
Helps to identify perimeters – event fencing can be used to mark out your entire area, securing sites and walkways, and managing pedestrian access much better.
Easy to install – temporary fencing is quick and easy to install and remove. It can quickly be put in place to help your secure areas in no time!
Barrier Types
It’s important to note that Heras fencing is tall mesh fencing typically used around the perimeter of a site to prevent unauthorised access and keep intruders out.
For queuing systems however, pedestrian barriers are typically used. These come in either plastic or steel and are smaller, making them ideal for managing queuing systems and crowd control. Lightweight and extremely stable, pedestrian barriers can be interlocked to create any length you require.
Steel pedestrian barriers offer strength when you need more heavy-duty crowd control. This type of fencing can also come with an anti-climb option if perimeter security is required. Overall, an ideal choice if you’re looking for stability and fencing with anti-trip feet!
However, plastic pedestrian barriers are much more versatile and come in a range of high vis colours and reflective designs – great if your event takes place at night. Warning or information signs and display advertising can also be typically found on plastic barriers. Plastic barriers are extremely durable and don’t potentially cause serious injury if someone gets caught up against them (unlike steel) – a great option for children and the elderly. This type of fencing is also non-slip and stackable, so they can be deployed very quickly in an emergency.
Things to consider when planning best queue management
In most cases, it’s not as simple as hiring your event fencing and being on your way. A lot of planning must be undertaken to understand the best place to form your queuing system and the suitability of placing your event fencing in such locations. For example:
- If you need to use public footpaths, how wide are these?
- What is the condition of the path? I.e., tarmac, cobbled, covered in potholes?
- Are there any bins, bollards, parking meters, signs, streetlights, etc. to be aware of?
- Is the area flat or situated on a hill?
- What is in the surrounding area? Fields, shops, houses?
- Is there parking available?
- Are you close to any transport links?
And more!
What you should never do:
- Introduce queuing systems across a live road
- Block the entire pedestrian footpath
- Block another business’s entrance with your queue.
You also need to understand/know how many people are scheduled to attend your event, as this will help you plan how long/how much temporary fencing you will require for your queuing system. It will also help provide you with the answer to whether or not you have enough space for queues and where to position them best.
In the event safety guide, it is recommended for queuing that the density level is two people per square metre (however, we are aware that most people can queue up to four people per square metre quite comfortably). Calculating how many people you can then accommodate in your outlined area is therefore worked out as follows:
Two people per square metre
X no. of metres of queuing space available
= Total number of people that can safely queue in that space.
Ultimately, it’s all about planning and having the facts and the right equipment to help!
Additional areas where event fencing may be required
If you’re hosting a festival or outdoor concert, you may have dedicated areas set up, such as food and refreshment tents, portable toilets, etc.
Rather than having unorganised crowds forming in these areas, temporary metal pedestrian barriers can help to bring order back to queue. Again, helping to avoid queue jumping situations and any safety concerns that may arise.
Professionals should always install temporary fencing and safety barriers. Ensuring that they meet all health and safety guidance and local authority regulations.
Site Fencing Services offers a wide range of temporary fencing solutions. Our team is also fully trained and experienced in installing and removing all types of safety barriers.
To find out how Site Fencing can support your event, call 01274 833 396.
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