Security

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Revision as of 20:49, 31 May 2010 by 95.150.81.49 (Talk)

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The main functions of security are to protect your convention goers and their property, and the traders' stock from any local ne'er-do-wells. It is also to prevent anyone attending the convention without paying and possibly monitoring the behaviour of the attendees. This is mainly achieved by fencing off the site and regularly monitoring the fence's integrity and having badge control (checking passes) at any entrances & exits. Special attention should be given to the traders area (after hours when stock is unattended) and reg desk (during its operation).

Some aspects of security can be done by volunteers. All attendees should be encouraged to be vigilant for anyone on site without a pass. Some security is far better left to trained and paid security staff, overnight security is definitely one of those.

Paid security should conform to BS 7499:2007

An example of the instructions given to security staff: BJC 2008 Security Procedure.

BJC 2010 hired a security company that specialised in festivals (rather than night clubs or building sites, for example). This meant that they were more familiar with the atmosphere expected at a BJC. They understood how to be understated and friendly, they were comfortable with "alternative" people, and familiar with the kind of teen drinking / drug taking problems that need to be resolved sensitively but firmly and quickly.

Some security situations may require a team member to make a decision. If a paying customer (or trader) is found starting a fight, harassing people or endangering the convention with illegal behaviour, you have to decide whether to throw them off site.

In this case you are legally entitled to eject them. It may be wise to have an explicit policy on this beforehand, making it clear that refunds will not be given (if that's your plan). If there are people on site who are a liability (legally or morally) to the convention, the staff, or the other customers, off site may be the best place for them. Your security staff will be happy to help them pack up their belongings and leave.

BJC 2009 had "Terms and Conditions" on their sales website. This said something like:

We don't have many rules and regulations, but there are some and here they are;

1. We aim to be happy and friendly and we hope you do too. If people at BJC act in a way that causes us or other jugglers problems, we may ask them to stop. If they don't stop we may ask them to leave site and we may not refund their ticket money.

2. Have a fantastic time!

You will need radios for your team. Your security firm may be able to lend/hire you these, and if not, they know where you can hire some MUCH more cheaply than you can manage on your own.