The exhibition is an ever-changing environment with constant construction and dismantling of exhibitions. This means that there are hazards specific to the event industry. This is a basic guide to the generic hazards found within the exhibition. It is by no means an exhaustive list of hazards specific to ICE. Anyone working on a specific event should consult the Risk Assessment for the event held by the Organiser and the Risk Assessment of your employer.
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20-22 JANUARY 2025
Introduction to Risk
Introduction to Risk
Who is at risk?
- Everyone working in or passing through the exhibition is at risk to some extent.
- Those whose work is in the exhibition are at risk due to their constant exposure.
- Those who do not normally work in the halls will be at risk because the environment will be unfamiliar, and they will be less aware of the day-to-day hazards.
Who is most vulnerable?
- Persons with little or no knowledge of the exhibition.
- New and expectant mothers may be especially at risk and should not work within the exhibition without a specific Risk Assessment to cover their activities.
- Young persons (aged 16 – 18) have a lower perception of risk in general and should be subject to a specific Risk Assessment to cover their activities.
Managing the Risk
To stay safe, avoid risks whenever possible. Avoid using the halls as a transit route, especially during build and breakdown. If you do not need to be in the halls, stay out of them. If you must enter, be aware of hazards, follow safety signs, and never enter prohibited areas. Avoid obvious risks like overhead work. Always wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) such as high-vis jackets, suitable footwear, and protective hard hats where required. Remember, PPE should be a last resort - it is best to avoid risks altogether. Children under the age of 16 are not allowed in the halls during build, show opening, and breakdown. When the show is open, young persons under the age of 18 are not permitted inside the halls.
The Hazards of the Exhibition
Examples of common risks associated with any event or exhibition are as follows:
- Multiple contractors working in a single workplace.
- Fall from working at heights and working on a live edge.
- Slips, trips, and falls on a level surface.
- Manual handling – lifting or moving of heavy/awkward loads.
- Falls on stairs or escalators.
- Injury from electric shock.
- Objects falling from height or loads falling from vehicles.
- Impact injury from moving vehicles.
- Injury from use of work equipment e.g., circular saws.
- Hanging wires.
- Structural collapse of seating or an exhibition stand.
- Outbreak of Legionnaires disease from a water feature.
- Food poisoning incident from temporary catering outlet.
- Fire and fire related incidents.
- Major incident and civil emergency.
- Excessive working hours.
- Stress.
- Alcohol and drug misuse related incidents.
