The Standing Committee on Structural Safety (SCOSS) and the Advisory Group on Temporary Structures (AGOTS) recently held an Events Industry Workshop to discuss concerns relating to the increasing use of large television screen structures at public events.

The aim of the workshop was to identify ways of ensuring adequate attention was paid to the competency of those involved, the design process and the use and management on site of these potentially complex structures. The workshop was attended by screen suppliers, promoters, event organisers, designers and the Health and Safety Executive. SCOSS has produced a report on the procurement, design and use of these structures which highlights a number of serious concerns.

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John Carpenter, Secretary of SCOSS, said: "Everyone recognises the need for these structures to be procured and used in a manner which reflects their safety critical nature. "The SCOSS report has identified some weaknesses in the process and it is essential that the events industry, and those who engage them, work to remove these deficiencies."

Mr Carpenter concluded: "This workshop was a successful first step in developing a strategy for moving this issue forward. Key actions included screen suppliers asking for improved data, and all Local Authority CEOs being reminded of their obligations."

(GK/JM)