Health & Safety
I am currently sat in one of our vans at an event in Nottingham where we have predicted wind speeds of over 45mph and have had two events cancel already this weekend. That got me thinking about health and safety so I decided to write a few words about it. Not the most exciting subject I hear you say but bear with me!For every event we undertake health and safety as the utmost importance not only for your event but for our staff also who have to work in all conditions all year round.We undertake a full risk assessment at every event. Knowing the potential risks on site helps us to plan for them and have a contingency plan where possible.
We check weather reports on the run-up to events when we make Marquee Hire in Luton or at any given place. Our marquees are suitable for four-season use but we have to be sensible about wind speeds. A closed marquee can withstand a fair amount of wind but an open-sided one will not. We can take extra precautions using more stakes, staking over the ground bars or using longer stakes with deeper anchor points
Depending on the event and the location be it Marquee Hire Milton Keynes, we will make a big difference in any decision made whether we need to cancel or go ahead
This weekend with high winds but low chance if rain we made the decision with the organisers to erect our trussing stage without the sides or roof. This means the wind can blow straight through and there is nothing to act as a sail or parachute. The organisers and council were happy with the decision and this meant the event could go ahead as planned. The structure is well anchored using strong ratchet straps with three-foot stakes in the ground.
Aside from wind and rain we also have two qualified PAT testers on our team. With the volume of work we do we felt that annual testing of equipment was not sufficient. We visually inspect all equipment as it goes out and comes back. Electrical equipment is tested periodically to ensure maximum safety for everyone.
We also take out full insurance to cover us against damage to property or people due to our equipment.
We work with many local councils and festivals and we provide them with a full health and safety package per job. For example, our stage hire package will include a structural report, generator maintenance information, PAT testing certificate, insurance details, a risk assessment and method statement.
If you have any questions regarding any of the above please email us at iwantinfo@strawberryfieldz.com and we will be happy to discuss.