Advice and benefits

Objectives

To understand and appreciate the role and functions of Group Members, including the response to major incidents.

To assist organisers of events to provide a safe environment for people attending the event, by offering advice and a 'one stop' point of contact with all agencies involved.

To be aware of all events which would require a risk assessment and contingency plan?

To ensure, as far as possible, that the risk to public safety at events, is minimised with particular emphasis on spectators and participants.

To develop and regularly review local guidelines for certain types of events.

Where specific major events are planned by one or more organisers the Group will undertake a co-ordinating role, to ensure safety elements across the range of events, has been considered and an appropriate response determined by the organisers and any other agencies affected including group members.

Where necessary the Group will form Sub Groups to meet the demand of this co-ordinating role.

Existing Sub Groups, whilst developing their own liaison interests, will continue to act in accordance with the objectives of these terms of reference. To report at meetings all accidents and incidents arising from an event.

Where appropriate, to comment on proposed developments, which will require elements of safety in the completed project.

To promote across the Borough the principle of integrated emergency management in responding to major incidents and disasters through preparedness and co-ordinated arrangements between all relevant agencies.

To provide a forum to explore, discuss and propose improvements and response to existing major incident contingency plans and procedures.

To be aware of contingency arrangements and involved in exercise opportunities, for sites which require specific plans under the Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) legislation, or have major contingency plans affecting large numbers of people.(i.e. sports stadium/arena, transport systems, major entertainment venues, large shopping complexes)

Where appropriate to promote and undertake combined member training and exercises relevant to major incident response.

To hold a briefing quickly following each major event/incident and make recommendations for improving safety and planning where appropriate.

To keep a written record of all formal Group and Sub Group meetings and note actions arising from those meetings.

Limitations

The Group has no statutory powers; it can only make recommendations.

Membership

The Group will comprise of the following membership:

• Metropolitan Police from Croydon Borough
• British Transport Police
• London Fire Brigade
• London Ambulance Service

Representatives from, Military, Local Authority, Health Authority, Gas, Electric, Water Utilities, BT, Environmental Agency, Railtrack, London Transport, Tram Operations, Town Centre Manager and Voluntary Agencies.

Other Agencies or identified individuals may be invited to attend meetings as and when necessary.

Chair

The Group will be 'chaired' by the Head of Corporate Emergency Management & Security

A minimum number of six meetings a year will be held. During specific periods this may be increased according to the demands of events, incidents or projects requiring review by the Group.