CHICAGO — Event protection and security strategy is an ever-evolving industry, particularly during times of global and national conflict and tension.
Today, the work is exposed to increased risks, including the war between Israel and Hamas, Russia’s war in Ukraine, which can endanger venues and large-scale events. More recently, explosives blew up a Jehovah’s Witnesses prayer meeting at a convention center, killing at least three people in India.
On November 7, the U.S. Department of State issued a global alert due to heightened tensions in various locations around the world and the risk of protests, violent actions, and terrorist acts against U.S. citizens and interests. The State Department recommends that citizens be particularly vigilant in areas frequented by tourists.
Ensuring event security
As potential hazards evolve, trade show management can prepare to manage any crisis through ongoing assessments and training.
Of course, security is a major aspect of modern trade shows and organizers keep abreast of global events and their potential impacts on event security. TSE has nevertheless reached out to get an update on this planning, with a keen eye on the high level of terrorist threat inherent in the United States in the event of unrest in the Middle East.
“The key is flexibility, adaptability and proactive planning,” said Mark Herrera, director of security and safety at the International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM). “Consulting with security experts, law enforcement and agencies for guidance is essential.”
Herrera warned: “If we think, based on what happened in Israel, that we have not seen infiltration of potential terrorists into the United States, then we are wearing blinders. We must know that the level of risk is high because of the foreign wars that are going on, and we must not become complacent in our preparation for security events.”
When the risk of terrorism, political instability or international conflict is high, event organizers may need to implement stricter security measures, which could include increased bag checks, metal detectors and security personnel, Herrera said.
He stressed that crowd control measures are one of the most important to prepare, as disorderly behavior and demonstrations can escalate into clashes that endanger those present. It is also about preparing to manage situations in which people try to access authorized or restricted areas. It is important for ofsign specific areas for different activities to control the flow of people.
Herrera also said hackers are targeting event technology and their data breaches are disrupting digital services, impacting event security and operations.
“If the facilities do not have a good plan on cyberspace to physical convergence, that could potentially be a concern for all facilities“, Herrera said. “Sometimes we don’t do it Think about cybersecurity until a facility, organization or event is taken hostage, but cyberattacks can give threat actors access to physical security measures. It also provides them with informationas a possible authentication that could lead to identity falsification in order to gain access to an event.
Careful planning, collaboration, and full buy-in from show organizers, security teams, venue staff, and local, state, and federal law enforcement are required to conduct thorough risk assessments, put effective crisis communications plans in place, and make necessary adjustments before the event begins. By collaborating and coordinating with everyone involved, the team can develop security plans that outline more comprehensive and effective procedures, protocols, and resources than any one person could.
“Your venue management should ensure that all emergency evacuation routes are well-marked and accessible,” Herrera said. “Also, utilize your technology and surveillance equipment, as this goes hand in hand with implementing all safety plans.”
To prepare for the unexpected, Herrera advises playing the “what if” game and coming up with three different answers to each imagined scenario. By reviewing the possible scenarios that could occur during an event, the psychological impact of mental preparation helps ensure that the person reacts quickly and safely to any danger.
“Your participants and employees experience a disruption in their decision-making ability if they’re not expecting a threatening environment or event. They’re caught off guard, which creates hesitation,” Herrera said. “It all comes down to training your staff and your team.”
Travel Safety Resources
Since the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks in the United States, security measures at airport checkpoints have been strengthened. Herrera said that TSA security measures are effective and comprehensive, but technology is only as good as the user and vulnerabilities can occur, which is why everyone should place importance on training and strengthening that training. He advised that the best practice is to understand behavioral patterns and baselines and train teams to identify unnatural behavior rather than relying solely on the much needed technology.
“TSA is operating with a heightened level of security due to global events and the current threat environment. TSA always operates with a high level of security and a constant state of vigilance, and the agency maintains a risk- and intelligence-based approach that includes multiple layers of security, both visible and invisible. TSA and DHS are in close and ongoing contact with all of our partners and will continue to monitor the situation and may adjust security postures if (or when) necessary,” a TSA spokesperson said.
When it comes to international travel, trade show organizers can encourage their teams and communities to consult resources for the latest updates, such as the U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs travel advisories and the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.
Contact Mark Herrera at mark.herrera@iavm.org