Five common mistakes at large-scale events (and how to avoid them)

For years, I’ve seen the same scene on the Monday after major events: a weary organiser lodging a complaint with the furniture supplier because something in the crowd control has gone wrong. Almost always, the mistake could have been avoided with decisions made weeks earlier. Here are the five most common ones.

Mistake 1: Underestimating the number of posts needed for crowd control

Quick calculation: one post for every 2 linear metres of belts. For an event with 5,000 people and 200 linear metres of cordoning, you need 100 posts. If you buy 60, on the day of the event the aisles will become distorted, attendees will wander where they shouldn’t, and the organisers will lose control of the flow.

Mistake 2: failing to plan for replacement of broken belts

At a festival with 10,000 attendees, at least 5 belts will end up damaged due to misuse, alcohol, cigarettes or sudden tugs. Keep an extra 10% of belts in stock backstage at the event.

Mistake 3: belt that doesn’t contrast with the surroundings

At an open-air festival with a dirt floor, a brown or black belt disappears from view after 10 metres. Attendees cannot see it and wander into restricted areas. Always use high-contrast belts outdoors: red, yellow, white.

Mistake 4: posts that are difficult to transport

A post with a classic round base takes up space. 60 posts won’t fit in a standard van. Posts with stackable bases (MAX, UNFIX) reduce transport volume by a factor of 4. Think about this before you buy.

Mistake 5: forgetting about dismantling

A 3-day event requires 4 hours of set-up and 2 hours of dismantling. If the post requires tools or unscrewing, multiply the time by 3. Posts with stackable bases that do not need to be fixed to the ground are the ones production teams appreciate the most.