This is a guest post from Shelter Structures America Inc.

The cornerstone of any successful event lies not just in its ability to entertain or inform but fundamentally in ensuring the safety and security of all participants. This is where the importance of event tent safety training becomes paramount, especially for events that rely on temporary structures like tents. 

Tent Safety Training and Why You Need It

Event tent safety training encompasses proper tent installation techniques, appropriate structure anchoring, understanding the structural limits of specific tent types, emergency evacuation procedures and functionality, weather preparedness strategies, and more. By mastering these areas, installation teams are equipped with the knowledge to ensure that tents and structures are not only set up securely but also maintained throughout the event to handle unexpected challenges such as sudden storms or high winds.

Tent and temporary structure installation safety training programs are designed to equip temporary structure installation teams and even event staff with the knowledge and skills to prevent accidents before they happen. 

This type of training also instills a proactive culture of safety among everyone involved. Staff become more vigilant in identifying potential hazards early on, while attendees gain an increased awareness of their surroundings and the importance of following safety protocols. Ultimately, investing in tent and temporary structure safety training is a testament to an organization’s commitment to minimizing risks and fostering a secure environment for all. thereby protecting its community.

What About the Weather?

Conducting thorough risk assessments for secure anchoring and protection against weather conditions is a pivotal aspect of ensuring the safety of attendees and staff at events. This involves a comprehensive evaluation of potential hazards that could compromise the stability of event tents and structures, taking into account both predictable and unforeseeable weather scenarios. The process begins with an analysis of the event location, identifying any vulnerabilities such as soft ground that may affect anchoring or areas exposed to high winds.    

It is also wise to look not only at impending weather, but also historical data for the location. Considering historical weather data and forecasts to anticipate conditions that could arise during the event is a crucial piece of understanding a temporary structure’s capability to withstand inclement weather.

Beyond merely identifying risks, this assessment informs the development of tailored strategies to mitigate them. This might include selecting specific types of anchorage systems such as additional concrete ballast weights or longer stakes, designed to withstand high wind speeds or incorporating water-resistant materials to protect against rain infiltration. After a risk analysis, contingency plans should be established, detailing responsive actions in case weather conditions suddenly deteriorate.

The tent and structure staff is responsible for assessing the installation site and making a decision on tent safety. While any unpredictable event can happen including inclement weather, accidents compromising the tent or temporary structure frame, it is important to have a well-trained team who can assess risk and cultivate appropriate solutions in challenging circumstances.

Access to Tent Safety Training

Access to superior safety training for installation teams is critical — and luckily, it’s easy to find. Many organizations such as the Manufacturers and Tent Rental Association (MATRA) have educational courses available via an online course that team members can take at their leisure. Topics include history of tents, tent terminology, tent safety, installing tents and maintaining tents. Visit MATRA to learn more and register.

About Shelter Structures America Inc.

Shelter Structures America Inc. distributes Shelter temporary tent structures, Glitzcamp glamping tents, Shelter event furniture and SKP tent washing technology in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Shelter brings advanced temporary structure solutions to the event, tent, hospitality, exhibition and disaster relief industries by offering a wide range of clear span and glamping tents, geodesic domes, event equipment and furniture.  Shelter Structures maintains distribution centers in Los Angeles, Chicago and Virginia. For more information, please visit http://www.shelterstructuresamerica.com.