Event and Concert Security Pat-Down Protocols
At any large-scale event, the safety of all attendees is a top priority. One of the most effective ways event security teams maintain a secure environment is through pat-down procedures. When conducted professionally, respectfully, and according to protocols, pat-downs are a key component of event security strategies. In this blog, we’ll outline the standard procedures and best practices event security guards should follow when conducting pat-downs.
Where are Pat-Downs Conducted?
Pat downs are typically performed at events that draw large crowds and where there is a potential risk of attendees bringing prohibited items into the venue. Some of the most common environments that require pat-downs include large music festivals and concerts, outdoor events, and stadium events.
Why Do Event Security Guards Perform Pat-Downs?
Event security guards conduct pat-downs when there is a risk of individuals bringing prohibited items, such as weapons, illegal substances, and alcohol, inside. Many event venues use metal detectors, which are effective in detecting metal weapons, in lieu of pat-down procedures. However, event security teams must conduct pat-downs for outdoor venues where metal detectors cannot be used.
Even at events with walk-through or handheld metal detectors, a pat down may be necessary if an alarm is triggered and the source of the alert isn't immediately obvious or offered for inspection by the attendee.
The Importance of Professionalism and Respect in Event Security
When conducting a pat-down, security guards must maintain a high level of professionalism and courtesy. A respectful demeanour puts attendees at ease and reflects positively on the event as a whole. Conversely, an inappropriate approach can cause issues for organizers and the security company in charge of safeguarding the event.
As best practices, security guards should:
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Greet attendees politely.
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Maintain a neutral, professional demeanour at all times.
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Avoid unnecessary physical contact and complete the procedure quickly and efficiently.
Maintaining professionalism and respect is critical for event security guards to facilitate smooth, respectful interactions with attendees.
Before the Pat Down
Before any pat-downs take place, security teams should implement best practices for attendees. One is to post signage before the pat-down area, informing attendees that pat-downs (and, if applicable, bag checks) will be conducted. This allows guests to mentally prepare and reduces surprises at the front of the line.
In most cases, pat downs are conducted alongside bag inspections. Learn more about effective bag check protocols in our previous blog, How Security Guards Perform Bag Checks At Events and Warehouses.
To ensure attendees feel respected and comfortable, pat downs should always be conducted by security guards of the same gender. When an attendee reaches the front of the line, a security team member will direct them to the appropriate security guard for their pat-down. Security teams should ideally have an even number of male and female security guards conducting pat-downs to reduce lineup times for attendees.
Event Security Pat Down Protocols
Once an attendee reaches the pat-down checkpoint, event security guards follow these essential steps:
1. Ask for Consent
Before conducting a physical search, the guard must ask the attendee for their consent to be patted down. While attendees always have the right to refuse, it’s important to explain that refusal will result in denial of entry to the event.
2. Visual Inspection
Before beginning the physical pat down, the guard should conduct a quick visual inspection of the attendee. The guard looks for any visible bulges, concealed items, or irregularities in clothing that may indicate hidden objects or weapons.
3. Ask Attendees About Their Pockets
The security guard should politely ask the attendee if they have anything in their pockets. If so, they should be directed to empty their pockets and place the items on a table or tray for inspection.
Security guards may also ask attendees to remove hats, bulky headwear, or outer clothing layers if appropriate and necessary.
4. Conduct the Pat-Down
The physical pat-down should be thorough but respectful. The guard will move from the attendee’s shoulders down each arm, down their sides, across the back, and down each leg. Key areas to check include the head (including head coverings, if necessary), arms, torso, legs, and feet.
When patting down sensitive areas (such as the chest or inner thighs), the back of the hand should be used to minimize discomfort and maintain professionalism.
5. If Weapons or Prohibited Items Are Found
If a weapon or prohibited item is discovered during the pat-down, the event security guard will confiscate the item immediately and explain to the attendee why the item is not allowed inside the venue. The guard should deposit the item in a pre-designated, secure location.
Depending on the nature of the item, the guard may need to alert their supervisor and the police or on-site police officers. Large weapons like guns and knives, and large amounts of illegal drugs, necessitate a call to the police. Event security guards should always follow established procedures for handling confiscated items and notifying leadership.
6. Ending the Pat-Down
If no prohibited items are found, the security guard should thank the attendee for their cooperation and direct them to the next step, such as ticket scanning. Courteousness throughout the process leaves attendees with a positive impression.
Partner With Canada’s Number One Event Security Company
At Blackbird Security, we provide professional, respectful, and effective event security services across Canada. We’ve provided protection for community events like Vancouver’s Latincouver, Circles for Reconciliation in Winnipeg, and major concerts at UBC’s Thunderbird Stadium. No matter the type of major event you’re hosting, our event security guards are highly trained in protocols, customer service, peaceful de-escalation, and emergency response to help operations run smoothly.
Contact us today through the form below to learn how we can help protect your next event.
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