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What kind of security staff does your event need?

Start with the task, rather than the job title

When an organiser asks for ‘a couple of guards’, it is worth asking one more question: what will those staff actually do? Will they help guests find their way, check tickets, manage access to a restricted area or perform security duties?

Tasks can look similar from the outside while requiring different skills, instructions and, in some cases, approvals. Staffing should therefore never be determined solely by the number of entrances or expected guests.

Three functions that are often confused

Event hosts and service staff typically help with welcoming guests, information, queue guidance, scanning and practical guest services. They can observe and report problems, but should not simply be assigned security duties.

Security staff and event guards may be relevant for guarding, securing access and preventing unwanted incidents. The approvals and training required depend on the nature of the assignment and the applicable legislation.

Door supervisors are often associated with entry control at licensed premises and nightlife venues. A door-supervision role is not automatically a substitute for a guarding function at other kinds of event.

Five questions before you book

  1. What specific tasks need to be carried out, and who is responsible for them?
  2. What kind of event, audience and access arrangements are involved?
  3. What requirements apply to the assignment, location and staff competencies?
  4. How should security staff and hosts work together?
  5. Who leads the operation and makes decisions if the situation changes?

A coordinated plan creates a better experience

The best starting point is a staffing plan that considers service, security and leadership together. This establishes clear roles and fewer grey areas on the day. At Mano Solutions, the aim is to provide a solution that takes both the guest experience and operational responsibility seriously.

Contact Mano Security to review the tasks and clarify the right staffing for your event.