Press Conferences

These vary from pre-planned controlled events to potentially hazardous ad hoc situations where the risk will depend on the size, location – indoor or outdoors – type of conference, the mood of the audience, and access to the public. Also covers recording training at sports grounds.

What Can Go Wrong?

• General hazard and fire
• Electrical safety
• Slips and trips.
• Podium/falls.
• Pushing, jostling with other news teams.
• General violence.

Legal/BBC Requirements 

• There are no specific legal requirements to draw to your attention

Control Measures

General Controls

• Check position to allow safe access to stage and exits
• Check location of emergency exits and become familiar with local emergency arrangements and procedures. Never obstruct emergency exits or fire routes
• Be aware of electrical safety, e.g., when using power supplies for lighting, or when connecting broadcast equipment to audio/video distribution systems. Check with host before using outlets. See Electrical Equipment (Portable)
• Avoid cables and equipment in walkways. Cover / fly trailing cables
• If standing/working on a podium, consider the potential load you might be placing on it, particularly where a number of press members simultaneously crowd on to it to gain a vantage point
• Check height and edging, raised edges are useful to indicate the edge, but can create a trip risk
• Plan filming/recording location on recce or on arrival
• Presenters or broadcast equipment operators must make themselves aware of potential slip, trip and fall hazards before getting involved in action
• Assist by back watching other team members. Consider the use of a second person when working in scrums
• Think about subject of the conference – if feelings are likely to be inflamed, consider use of a second person and plan what to do if the situation escalates
• If large crowds of fans or spectators are likely, or if protesters may be present, please see ‘Crowds, Demonstrations and Protests’ and ‘Violence and Aggression’.

Division Specific Issues

• No division specific issues.

FAQs/Did You Know?

• No FAQs.