EventScotland Events Management - A Practical Guide

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Medical Provision
The type and amount of medical provision required at events varies enormously
depending on the size, nature and location of the event. Medical provision must be
available to everybody working on, performing at, competing in or attending the
event. As far as is practicable, an event should be self sufficient in order to minimise
the impact on the day-to-day provision for the local community. Factors that will
influence what provision is required include:
> Nature of event – programme, activities, sports
> Location – indoor, outdoor, size of venue, proximity to existing services
> Venue – standing, seated
> Duration – few hours, multiple days
> Weather conditions – the season, inclement weather
> Size of audience
> Audience Profile – young, elderly, teenagers
> History – previous casualties/incidents, first time event
> Other hazards – identified in risk assessment
Note: Medical provision at many events is a mandatory requirement.
Remember that it is not only medical personnel that may be required. Facilities,
equipment, transport and liaison personnel may also have to be organised and
budgeted for. Medical provision should be discussed and agreed well in advance
with the appropriate authorities and providers.
Welfare Services
The easier you make it for people to attend your event, the better the experience
they will have. Think about the audience you wish to attract to the event and their
potential needs. A happy, stress-free attendee is likely to come back to future events.
Some services to consider are:
> Drinking Water – this should be supplied at all types of events, particularly at
those held outdoors. Depending on your existing venue/site services, you may have
access to mains drinking water. If not, water can be supplied from bowsers (water
containers) that are fit-for-purpose or bottled water made available. Pay particular