Fire Safety and Safety of Places of Sport Act (1987)
The Fire Safety and Safety of Places of Sport Act 1987 (UK) is designed to improve safety in sports venues, especially focusing on fire risks, crowd control, and emergency evacuation procedures.
All of this was because of the devastating fire at Bradford City Football Club in May 1985 in which 56 people lost their lives. A public inquiry was then conducted called the Popplewell Inquiry which examined safety at sports grounds; this was the main force for creating the above Act of Parliament.
Below are the key aspects of the Act and its impact on the sport industry:
Fire Safety Regulations:
- Requires sports venues to have adequate fire safety measures in place.
- Venues must conduct regular fire drills and ensure clear evacuation routes.
Example:
A football stadium must have well-marked exits, fire alarms, and fire extinguishers throughout the venue.
Capacity Limits:
- The Act sets a limit on the number of spectators allowed in a venue based on fire safety and crowd management considerations.
Example:
A stadium may be restricted to a certain number of spectators to ensure safe evacuation in case of emergency.
Crowd Control Measures:
- Requires venues to implement crowd control measures to prevent panic or injury in emergencies, such as barriers, designated exits, and security personnel.
Example:
Concerts or large sports events may employ trained stewards to direct crowd flow and ensure order during evacuations.
Emergency Procedures:
- Sports venues must have a documented emergency action plan, including procedures for fire, medical emergencies, and crowd disturbances.
Example:
A rugby stadium might have specific protocols for evacuating in the event of a fire during a match.
Safety of Spectators:
- The safety of spectators is prioritised, and venues must be designed or modified to minimise risks from fire, structural failure, or overcrowding.
Example:
A stadium built with fire-resistant materials and equipped with sprinklers in seating areas.
Enforcement and Penalties:
- Local authorities have the power to inspect venues and ensure compliance with fire safety standards.
- Failure to comply can lead to fines or closure of the venue.
Example:
If a stadium fails a safety inspection, it may be temporarily shut down or face legal action.
Impact on the Sport Industry:
- Increased focus on venue safety, resulting in higher construction and operational costs but enhancing spectator confidence.
- Example: Modern sports arenas, like Wembley Stadium, include state-of-the-art fire safety systems and large evacuation capacity, reducing risks for fans and players alike.