As the United States continues to plan for its reopening post the COVID-19 pandemic crisis of early 2020, event safety has become a top priority for gatherings of all scales and sizes, from large conferences to small get-togethers. Data sourced from the Events Industry Council in their 2016 US economic significance study indicated there were 5.9m jobs with $249b of labor income generated from them, $104b of taxes at all levels, and $446b towards US gross domestic product. Since the 2020 study is not yet available, 2016 was the most recent to review these statistics. Event safety is a need as we continue to open more of these places of gathering.
However, it has been noted in the infographic presented within this article that there has been an historical upward trend with each study conducted since 2009 in direct spending within the events industry in the U.S. The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority also sponsored and published their own economic study which further documents this statement with information dating from 2018 (study conducted in 2019).
With the significance of the events industry playing their role in the US economy (federal, state and municipal), it is certainly in the best interests of all for the events industry to reopen at soon as it is safe to do so, which is why consulting in security is of the upmost importance for event safety. This article is written in a way to attempt to speak to gatherings of all sizes as far as recommended practices for workers and companies alike to consider undertaking for their own sponsored event or event to be worked.
One unanticipated side effect of the pandemic and shelter-in-place orders has been a significant decrease in crime, highlighting the broader impact of event safety measures. Law enforcement leaders throughout the country report crime rates well below the norm. Thankfully, active-shooter events have significantly declined during the pandemic as well, underscoring the importance of proactive event safety planning. While unconfirmed statistics show over 120 “mass shootings” (defined as a shooting resulting in multiple victims) in 2020 to date, as few as one event can be termed an “active shooter” incident (e.g., Milwaukee).
While further analysis is needed, it is reasonable to conclude that this downward trend is linked to the temporary elimination of mass-gathering events and locations—such as shopping centers, conferences, and concerts—where event safety risks are typically higher. These observations reinforce the need for strong event safety protocols as such gatherings begin to resume.
Government leaders have recently begun to ease shelter-in-place orders. Shopping centers, other locations, and events that host large crowds will eventually follow suit. As these spaces reopen, event safety becomes an even greater priority due to several additional dynamics that should cause concern for overall safety. The first is the economy: the national unemployment rate has skyrocketed amid uncertain economic times for the foreseeable future. Employment loss, the associated economic pressures, and feelings of hopelessness can cause some individuals to resort to violence, posing risks to event safety at public gatherings. Secondly, society in general has been under prolonged stress, which adds another layer of frustration that can impact the safety and security of events. Lastly, the mass wearing of masks in public is now normalized and will continue to be until the pandemic subsides. Until recently, the wearing of masks in public—unless there was an obvious medical condition, a Halloween celebration, or a religious purpose—communicated a vastly different message than it does today.
Before the pandemic, an individual entering a convenience store or mall on a Friday night while wearing a mask might have been viewed as suspicious activity, potentially triggering a call to police, which poses unique challenges for maintaining event safety in current times. Today, however, the widespread use of masks is an essential part of event safety protocols, helping to protect attendees and the public alike. This shift reflects increased awareness around health and security risks at gatherings and public venues, reinforcing mask-wearing as a vital measure for ensuring event safety. As communities continue to adapt, mask usage remains a key component in comprehensive event safety planning to reduce risks and promote a secure environment.
While uncertain times remain ahead, there are a few commonsense predictions that can be made regarding event safety: There will likely be an escalation in crime post-pandemic, including active-threat events that impact both public and private gatherings. Masks—and in most cases, justifiably so—will continue to be worn by large groups of people attending events, becoming a standard part of event safety protocols. Societal stress, mass layoffs, frustration, and a feeling of hopelessness may lead some individuals to commit acts of violence, making vigilant event safety measures more critical than ever.
Active-shooter situations evolve quickly, making event safety critical. Masks can hinder identification, increasing risks to event safety. Many threats happen at work, where masks may allow offenders to evade detection. Prioritizing event safety through vigilance and strong protocols is essential. In today’s environment, event safety must be the top focus to protect everyone.
There is no guarantee that can be made for an illness-free and safe event but taking precautions and having security mitigation strategies in places such as the examples provided below help towards maximizing attendee and staff safety.
Top 11 Event Safety Practices to Undertake (in no specific order)
Only reopen when it is legally and reasonably safe to do so. Distinct and careful decision making is necessary with a team of professionals consisting of Human Resources, Legal, Operations, Finance and Medical (likely via a contracted resource/partner). What works for one entity may not work for another. While it’s okay to benchmark against what other like-entities are doing, be very cautious of this as what is good for “John” may not fit and be good for “Suzy”. Every entity is unique in their own way so the approach and decision needs to reflect this as well.
Attendee Education. New signage, social media messaging, ticket purchasing regulations update, website information, mobile app information, push notifications, etc. Whatever means an entity utilizes to market their messages and attract attendees to the event must show consistent information amongst the channels and in a manner which timely. Have a statement included on your attendee policy that allows for revocation and reimbursement of attendee fee (in partial or full) for not adhering to the new policies in place.
Contact Tracing. The event sponsors will need to ensure a method of contact tracing is in place. For when an illness occurs it will be essential to health officials to know this information in a timely fashion. If the event sponsor cannot produce it, anticipate some action to be taken against them for failure to negligence (likely civil action) by the local authorities.
Worker Hygiene. Identify a worker who will act as the coordinator of any and all infection control mitigation incidents or occurrence. This worker should be well versed in public health guidelines, safety measures, new health plans, hazards, and be working closely with the event production/management team as well as the venue staff on all health concerns. Ensure proper physical distancing, hand washing, cough & sneeze etiquette are in place. Provide access to gloves, face coverings and where appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE). Enact Temperature Screening (more info below on this).
Practices for Workers when they are Sick. If a worker becomes sick during the course of the day or their shift, separate that person as soon as possible from others. Anticipate a budget for medical purposes be in-place for the event for not only proper staffing of the event but also potential transportation of sick parties, ancillary equipment, etc. Have a policy in place that workers cannot return to work until either they isolated for 14 days since their first symptoms manifested themselves or documented medical authorization to do so.
Sanitize the Venue. Ensure enhanced cleanings are taking place of public areas (lobbies, halls, dining areas for example) and restrooms. The disinfecting technique employed for the high-touch areas must be frequent and thorough. Place automatic (no touch) hand-sanitizer stations in multiple locations throughout the event space.
Space Requirements. The event as you knew it pre-COVID19 very likely may require additional space allocation needs post-COVID19 to meet physical distancing requirements. Where a 6 foot distance for physical distancing is needed, up to 36 square feet per small group will be needed. For areas where there has been a queue in the past, room for people to maneuver around the now more expansive setting will be needed also. Placing markings of some variety to indicate visually to people approaching the area of where to stand in the queue will aid in the process.
Temperature Screenings. Enacting a method of quick but effective & efficient temperature sensing along with trained personnel will greatly help identify potential illness. In tandem with a published policy on what an attendee and/or worker can expect once they have been identified for potential illness will allow this proactive measure to perhaps curb a worse issue that may have developed had this measure not been enacted.
Temperature Screenings. Enacting a method of quick but effective & efficient temperature sensing along with trained personnel will greatly help identify potential illness. In tandem with a published policy on what an attendee and/or worker can expect once they have been identified for potential illness will allow this proactive measure to perhaps curb a worse issue that may have developed had this measure not been enacted.
Bag checks. Not every event may require or need this as a service or item of inclusion, however, for the larger gatherings that will having a known, published policy of only small clear bags being allowed inside the venue will allow for maximum efficiency and safety at security check points of prohibited items.
Legal Issues. Any variety of legal issues may arise on a pre-COVID19 event let alone post COVID19 reopening during a pandemic. Be sure to include legal in all policy and new practice decisions being made. Consul will understand your unique situation best as they will (or should) be most intimate with your particular situation. The Duty of Care for workers and attendees and steps taken by responding parties on-site during an incident must have careful documentation on the facts (who, what, where, when, how) on how the incident transpired and conclusions reached for resolution.
Now more than ever, consideration should strongly be given to having a security presence that has the capability to respond and mitigate a dangerous and violent intent. There are many options when deciding a security posture. We at PRS are prepared to provide guidance on best practices and offer solutions that are discreet and comforting so your customers have a safe and satisfying experience.
There are of course much more detail and thought that needs to go into each of the elements to ensure a successful event is had however practicing each of these will help minimize your risk. The involvement in-depth as well as the quantity of professional security personnel to be involved in an event for monitoring and enforcement of new policies and regulations will be paramount towards the goals of a successful event. Ensure you are working with a partner who has collaboration and understanding of your needs top of mind.
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Are you looking for reliable private security services for your business in Seattle who you can ask questions? Whether you require ongoing assistance for your company or services for a single event, it’s important to find a company you can rely on to meet your unique needs. While there are many options out there, not every security company is capable of keeping your employees, clients, and property safe. Ensure you receive the help you need by asking the following questions.
How many years of experience does your company have?
One important question to ask is the number of years the company has been in business. Companies with extensive experience in the industry are often more qualified because they’ve worked with many different types and sizes of companies.
What services does your company offer?
There are many different types of private security services available, including on-site security and fire watch. Verify early that the company you’re considering can actually accommodate you. Discuss your specific needs upfront to give potential contractors all the information they require.
How are your security guards trained?
It’s also important to know about a company’s training methods. Always inquire about their procedures. If conducted in-house, ask who leads the training, how long it takes, what’s required to pass and whether officers must receive ongoing instruction.
Need Private Security Services in Seattle?
If you need reliable private security services in Seattle, it’s time to discuss the specifics with a professional. Contact Premier Risk Solutions with questions or to schedule a consultation today. Our highly trained team has served the greater Seattle area for many years and always provides expert advice and quality results. With years of experience in the industry, you can trust our specialists to have the knowledge and skills necessary to meet all your private security needs.
If you need private security services for your business in Seattle, it’s important to secure services that fit your budget. Whether you’re interested in security consulting or digital forensics, establishing a realistic amount of money to spend is essential. While it’s impossible to put a price tag on the safety of your personnel, clients, and property, determining how much you can afford to pay a security company doesn’t have to be difficult. Keeping the following tips in mind can help you establish a realistic budget.
Research Average Pricing
First, spend some time researching the average cost of private security services in your area. Pricing can vary by location, but details are usually easy to find online. Establishing the average helps you know what to expect moving forward and you’ll be able to spot higher-than-normal estimates more easily.
Request Multiple Quotes
You should also plan to request quotes from two or three different private security companies. This information will help you in establishing the estimates and ensures you aren’t overcharged.
Consider More Than Cost Alone
The cost of private security services is an important factor that should weigh heavily in your decision-making process, but it’s not the only one. Make sure you look at each company as a whole. Keep the company rating, client feedback and worker experience in mind as well.
Establishing Private Security Specialists in Seattle
Now that you know how to establish a realistic budget, it’s time to discuss options with a professional. The security specialists at Premier Risk Solutions are capable of providing a wide variety of services, including executive protection, private investigation, and business integrity assessment. Whatever your unique needs, we have the knowledge and skills to address them. Contact us with questions or to schedule an appointment to discuss your security needs with a professional.
Experienced Private Security Services in Seattle
Serving the Seattle area and providing services all over the world through strong vendor partner relationships
PRS remains committed to our clients, staff, and community. During this difficult time, we stand at the ready to support you and your needs. While we are balancing the safety & security of our team members in collaboration with our clients, we realize security is an essential need to business operations. We keep regular tabs on what the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) are recommending for guidance in safe practices and employing said recommendations as necessary.
We have deployed team members to healthcare institutions to help facilitate expedited security screenings in helping the community stay as healthy as possible and our client delivers their essential life-safety services to their patients. We have deployed team members to offices and facilities that have been closed due to the shelter in place orders in select locations as well. PRS remains available to and for you as we navigate the “new normal” that COVID-19 has brought on. Please don’t hesitate to reach out should you have any questions.
Red Team testing, also known as physical security penetration testing (pen test), occurs more often than is typically discussed amongst perhaps more sexy topics in the security industry, such as Executive Protection, Workplace Violence Prevention, or Event Security. However, the benefits of red team testing done well can help solidify the essential elements of a good security program.
Having administered 200+ red team tests over the course of the last half dozen years, I can say that no two exercises often happen to be the same. Varying days of the week and times of the day that tests are conducted will help ascertain the most robust, holistic information regarding a security program. And just because you might test one day at one time does not necessarily make the result of that particular test the definitive answer and solution; it could have been a case of the personnel working that specific day & time having a good or a bad day. You will want to test that day and/or time more than once to ensure the same pattern is in place before jumping to a conclusion…not too dissimilar to surveillance in workers comp cases to refute the “Good Day” defense by the injured party.
The personnel conducting/administering the red team test should also be generally creative people in their approach and mindset in undertaking the assignment. Given creative freedom (within reason) could yield surprising results from the red team test. For example, in one instance our agent was assigned a red team test in the San Francisco Bay Area for a client. Through his advance research on the location and company, we created a cover story where he was a journalist from the local newspaper who desired to print a story regarding the client company in which he would provide very positive press for their philanthropic endeavors. This client location had security officer personnel in place and restricted elevators to each floor.
The agent approached the security officer personnel at the lobby desk explaining his cover story and requested to meet with an individual (whom he had located in his advance open source research) who was a C-suite person for the company in that location. Within 10 minutes the agent was sitting across a conference room table from this C-suite executive. His credentials were not checked. No screening mechanism was enacted. All because the company strongly desired very positive press to be published on them and the opportunity was presented for just that. This is a very good learning experience for the company. No one has to lose their job nor should they be disciplined. It should be used as a learning experience to grow from for all parties involved. Having a creative agent in place who understands security programs while pushing boundaries in an authorized manner can achieve such objectives.
To summarize what steps were taken from the example above to get to the end result:
1. Agree upon a specific statement/scope of work (SOW) between the service provider and the client.
2. Resource/assign an agent that is creative in their approach.
3. SOW should have had an allowance for advance research time prior to the read team test to be conducted. I would generally recommend up to 5 hours of time for this in most circumstances but can change based on scope, square footage needing to be tested, and other factors.
4. Expect about the same amount of time on-site for conducting the red team test plus a couple of additional hours for report writing time.
5. Expect to have near real-time communications between the agent/service provider and the client during the operation being conducted to ensure clarity of the exact timing of the red team test. Doing so will help avoid any potential “bad actor” confusion with the operation.
6. Depending on the company’s goals and objectives of the red team test operation, consider having a tracking tool in place that is shared between the service provider and the client representative that is available on a moment’s notice. It could be an Excel sheet or other software that details dates, times, locations as well as names and contact numbers for each respectively should a timely call or note have to be placed. An effective tool will allow for filtering and sorting the content uploaded to moderate varying forms of data for different parties who might desire to see it.
7. While testing people and their practices is the most common denominator in physical security red team tests, there is a component of testing the company’s security technology as well. How well the agent can be seen on camera while conducting the test, any bypassing of access control systems in place that might have been had, or any alarm systems that might have (or should have) been activated when accessing a more vulnerable area of the company’s space are all aspects of security technology that should be looked at while the red team test was conducted. This can be done after the fact, it doesn’t have to be real-time, but doing so ensures the company equipment is also functioning properly.
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Managing Director | Consulting, Joe Zaccaria, had the opportunity to speak with the industry-recognized platformSecurityGuyTV.com during the prestigious ASIS International Conference, which took place in Dallas, Texas, on September 26, 2017. This annual conference is a globally respected event that brings together security professionals, thought leaders, and innovators from around the world to discuss the latest trends, technologies, and strategies shaping the future of security and risk management.
During the interview, Mr. Zaccaria shared his expert perspectives on a range of topics critical to the evolving landscape of security consulting. He addressed how our consulting services are uniquely positioned to meet the changing demands of organizations, from adapting to digital threats to enhancing physical security protocols and risk mitigation strategies. His commentary highlighted the importance of proactive planning, strategic responsiveness, and the growing need for tailored security solutions in today’s increasingly complex environment.
This insightful 5-minute interview at ASIS International Conference provides a concise yet powerful overview of our firm’s capabilities, our consultative approach, and the depth of knowledge we bring to our clients. Whether you’re a security professional, a business leader, or someone interested in learning how to strengthen organizational resilience, Joe Zaccaria’s conversation offers valuable takeaways.
To gain a deeper understanding of our expertise, learn about real-world applications of our services, and explore how we deliver measurable results through innovative strategies, we encourage you to watch the full interview. It’s an excellent resource for anyone looking to better understand the value of professional security consulting in today’s uncertain climate.
You can find the video, along with additional insights, case studies, and updates, by visiting our knowledge base—a growing library of resources designed to inform, support, and empower our clients and partners across industries.
How prophetic of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, during his inaugural address in 1933, when he uttered those famous words, “So, first of all, let me assert my firm belief that the only thing we have to fear is…fear itself — nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed efforts to convert retreat into advance…” While the context at the time was far different than our experiences today, these words aptly describe how workers are feeling in 2019. Fear has become a primary concern in the modern workplace, influencing behavior, morale, and overall organizational culture. I have been fortunate to work in both the public and private sectors for over 30 years. Never in my career have I witnessed the level of fear in the workplace that I see today. While there is legitimate cause for concern about violence, the primary challenge for security professionals is to address this anxiety early and effectively—mitigating the concern before it escalates into full-blown fear.
I believe there is little debate anymore about the impact of violence on the American worker’s psyche. The recent incident in Virginia Beach serves as yet another example of why American workers are frightened. While information is still being gathered, we know a “veteran city engineer” used a firearm to target people he worked with for years. If the investigation runs its typical course, primary facts and other information will surface that will provide some insight; but, like many incidents of this nature, will fall far short of painting a complete picture. Tragic incidents like this defy understanding and leave a lasting imprint in our minds.
Organizations, especially ones open to the public, feel the tension. I have directly experienced circumstances where fear becomes so compounded, some staff feel the need to go home even when the threat is benign. In other words, “…paralyzing the ability convert retreat into advance.” From my perspective, “instant” knowledge fuels this fear. For example, we immediately know when an active assailant has occurred. Due to mandated reporting laws in many states, we can also easily find out the latest primary trends in workplace violence. The perception of one’s safety can instantly elevate based on what is read online during lunch.
What can be done to provide workers comfort when they experience fear? Security professionals know some peace of mind can be found in a strong security posture and training. A properly trained and staffed security team serves as a deterrent to violence and enhances the overall feeling of safety. Conflict resolution training, a strong zero-tolerance stance on workplace violence, mandated reporting and active-assailant training are all helpful because it enhances communication, threat recognition, reaction time and response. Engineering strategies such as video systems, electronic access, employee identification, and duress alarms have preventative benefits as well. Unfortunately, these barriers can be easily defeated. For example, a threat received via the telephone instantly touches the interior of the organization and sends the message that the threat is close-by when it could be hundreds of miles away.
The primary challenge is providing comfort to people who are in fear based on what they have experienced, even if minor. Common and vague threats such as, “I’ll be back” or “I’ll make you pay” often produce terror and a leap in thought to they are definitely coming back with a gun. I have experienced staff who simply cannot work and need to go home because of the strong, but misplaced belief that violence is about to occur. It is important as security professionals to seize this moment and leverage it to produce comfort, which should be a primary objective in any response strategy.
Primary Trust, Credibility & Comfort
The power of trust, credibility and comfort when trying to calm a fearful employee or when influencing an entire organization cannot be overlooked. A comparison can be found in healthcare. We can become very fearful when experiencing primary symptoms that could be serious. A subsequent examination by a physician leads to the conclusion that we have nothing to worry about. The doctor’s opinion gives us comfort because it is based on their experience and training. In other words, their word gives us comfort because we trust them. We trust the primary expert, and it is this trust that gives us comfort.
The challenge for primary security professionals is providing this same level of comfort when an employee or organization is experiencing fear. For security entities who provide a human behavioral threat assessment, we want the fearful employee to trust us, to believe in our opinion, based on science, (threat assessment software program, training, and experience) that the threat is minor. To develop this trust and to provide comfort, the security professional needs to:
Establish a strong partnership between security and staff – share your experiences, make yourself available, provide safety presentations, conduct human behavioral and physical threat assessments, active-assailant defense, and other safety presentations.
Primary Market your services and expertise – prepare security articles for internal publication; personal and professional safety tips, home safety, and others.
Security staff and their leaders need to exude confidence – professionally dressed, clean uniform (for those with a uniformed security presence) free of damage and avoiding unprofessional language.
Be a fast problem-solver – our critical stakeholders expect problems to be addressed; what leaves a lasting impression is when problems are solved quickly.
Promote credibility – based on training and experience; many have opinions but know you are the expert.
Familiarity breeds trustworthiness – they will come to trust and believe you.
Follow-through on commitments and bring resolution for those initially involved.
Speak to their fear. Know a rational appeal will probably not work because they are afraid. Assess appropriately. What services can you provide?
Check-in for the next several weeks. Let them know you have not forgotten. For example, one employer experienced thefts from their parking lot. Track how many patrols and contacts security made for two weeks and report back to the victims what you did and the results.
Sustain absolute trust through consistency each and every time.
For further information on how to build a strong and competent security team and how to have your word provide comfort, contact Premier Risk Solutions at www.premierrisksolutions.com.
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