Updated: 8 December 2025
Please note: The information contained in this chapter sets out good practice that should be considered by event organisers. However, it is industry guidance and does not necessarily cover everything that organisers need to consider for a particular event.
Barriers & fencing are used for a range of purposes at events, from perimeter fencing and shielding hazards to protecting temporary structures. Choosing the right barrier or fencing product for the task it is required for is essential and should be subject to thorough planning and risk assessment.
A summary of the areas of consideration for event organisers which are covered in this chapter.
A brief introduction to the purposes of barriers and fences at events.
Links to legislation and guidance covering the use of barriers and fences.
Key considerations when risk assessing the use of barriers and fecing.
Description of mesh-panel fencing and how it is used.
Description and usage examples for steel-panel fencing.
Incorporating the use of barriers and fencing into the event plan.
An effective method to queue large numbers of people.
Managing multiple entry and exit points for different users.
Considerations for the level of perimeter fence integrity.
Evaluating the effectiveness of barriers and fencing.