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Press Conferences

Political announcements, police statements, product launches and disaster management updates are commonly covered at a press conference (‘Pressers’).

Updated: 18 August 2020

These vary from pre-planned controlled events to potentially hazardous ad hoc situations where the risk will depend on the size, location – indoor or outdoors – type of conference, the mood of the audience, and access to the public. Also covers recording training at sports grounds.

What Can Go Wrong?

  • General hazard and fire
  • Electrical safety
  • Slips and trips.
  • Podium/falls.
  • Pushing, jostling with other news teams.
  • General violence.

Legal/³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Requirements 

  • There are no specific legal requirements to draw to your attention

Control Measures

General Controls

  • Check position to allow safe access to stage and exits
  • Check location of emergency exits and become familiar with local emergency arrangements and procedures. Never obstruct emergency exits or fire routes
  • Be aware of electrical safety, e.g., when using power supplies for lighting, or when connecting broadcast equipment to audio/video distribution systems. Check with host before using outlets. See Electrical Equipment (Portable)
  • Avoid cables and equipment in walkways. Cover / fly trailing cables
  • If standing/working on a podium, consider the potential load you might be placing on it, particularly where a number of press members simultaneously crowd on to it to gain a vantage point
  • Check height and edging, raised edges are useful to indicate the edge, but can create a trip risk
  • Plan filming/recording location on recce or on arrival
  • Presenters or broadcast equipment operators must make themselves aware of potential slip, trip and fall hazards before getting involved in action
  • Assist by back watching other team members. Consider the use of a second person when working in scrums
  • Think about subject of the conference – if feelings are likely to be inflamed, consider use of a second person and plan what to do if the situation escalates
  • If large crowds of fans or spectators are likely, or if protesters may be present, please see ‘Crowds, Demonstrations and Protests’ and ‘Violence and Aggression’.

Division Specific Issues

  • No division specific issues.

FAQs/Did You Know?

  • No FAQs.

Events Safety Guide

  • Events Safety GuideVisit the Events Safety Guide for a collection of topics related to organising your event.

Sports topics

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