9.0 Safety and Emergency Evacuation: Under Pressure

Backstage areas can be busy and sometimes dangerous. It's important to make sure everyone stays safe, especially during emergencies. Harm reduction means taking steps to prevent accidents and make sure people are safe, even if they are taking risks.

9.0 Safety and Emergency Evacuation Accessibility Audit Tool

Feature	What It Needs	Why It Matters
Sharps Disposal	Special containers for needles and other sharp objects. Mounted securely at a height that's easy to reach in bathrooms, dressing rooms, and other areas.	Prevents accidental needle sticks and the spread of infections. Secure mounting keeps containers from falling and prevents unauthorized access.
Naloxone Kits	Kits with medicine to reverse opioid overdoses. Easily accessible to staff in case of emergency.	Opioids are powerful painkillers that can be dangerous if misused. Naloxone can save lives in case of an overdose.
First Aid Kits	Well-stocked first aid kits with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other supplies.	Makes sure basic first aid supplies are available for minor injuries and emergencies. Stored in clear containers that are easy for staff to find and reach.
Safety Training	Training for staff on how to use naloxone, provide first aid, and respond to emergencies.	Makes sure staff are prepared to handle emergencies and keep everyone safe.
Safe Storage	Store equipment and supplies safely to prevent accidents. Make sure heavy items are stored on lower shelves.	Prevents injuries from falling objects.
Emergency Contacts	Post emergency contact information in a visible location.	Makes it easy for anyone to call for help in case of an emergency.
Security	Secure backstage areas to prevent unauthorized access. Consider using security personnel or controlled access points.	Protects performers and their belongings. Controlled access can help prevent the introduction of drugs and other harmful substances.

Feature	What It Needs	Why It Matters
Location	First aid kits should be easy to find backstage, onstage, and anywhere else accidents might happen.	If someone gets hurt, you need to be able to get to the first aid kit quickly!
Storage	Kits should be kept in clear containers that are easy to see and reach, ideally mounted on a wall at a height that works for everyone.	Clear containers let you see what's inside without opening them. The right height means everyone, even people in wheelchairs, can reach the kit easily.
Contents	Kits should be fully stocked with bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and other important supplies.	You need to be ready for all kinds of minor injuries, like cuts, scrapes, and burns.
Maintenance	Someone needs to check and restock the kits regularly to make sure everything is there and hasn't expired.	Expired medicine can be dangerous! Regular checks ensure the kit is always ready to use.
Training	Staff should be trained in basic first aid, so they know how to help someone who is hurt.	Knowing basic first aid can help someone feel better and prevent a minor injury from getting worse. In a serious emergency, it might even save a life!

Feature	What It Needs	Why It Matters
Easy to Find	Evacuation plans need to be posted in spots where people can easily see them. Think near doors, in hallways, and backstage.	In an emergency, you don't want to waste time hunting for the plan!
Easy to Read	The plans should be printed big enough for everyone to read (at least size 14 font). They should also use simple words and pictures.	This makes it easier for everyone, especially folks who have trouble reading or understanding lots of words.
Everyone Included	The plans should show how to help disabled people get out safely.	It's important to remember that some people might need extra help getting out. This could include folks who use wheelchairs or have other needs.
Different Ways to Learn	It's helpful to have the plan in different ways, like raised-print maps people can feel or large-print versions.	This makes sure that everyone, even those who can't see well, can understand the plan.

Feature	What It Needs	Why It Matters
Clear Markings	Exits should be marked with bright signs that are easy to spot, even in the dark.	No one should have to guess where the exit is. Bright lights can help people find the exit in case of a fire with a lot of smoke.
Wide Doors	Doors should be at least 860 mm (34 inches) wide to let wheelchairs and other mobility devices through. There shouldn't be any big bumps on the floor (thresholds).	This makes sure everyone can get through the doors quickly and easily without getting trapped.
Easy-Open Doors	Door handles should be easy to use, even if you only have one hand. Think of handles that are bars or levers you can push down. Doors must unlock easily from inside.	This way, people with limited hand strength or dexterity can still open the doors without struggling. No one should get trapped because they can't unlock or open a door.
Clear Paths	The way to the exits needs to be clear of things like furniture, cords, or bumps in the floor. Paths need to be wide, at least 1200 mm (47 inches).	A clear path means people can get to the exit fast without tripping or getting stuck.
Safe Ramps	Ramps leading to exits should have handrails to help people keep their balance, and non-slip surfaces to prevent falls. Ramps can't be too steep!	Ramps make it easier for people who can't use stairs. They need to be safe and easy to use.
Waiting Spots	If there are spots where people who can't use stairs have to wait for help, those spots need to be easy to find and marked clearly.	Waiting areas are important for people who need assistance. They need to have enough room for everyone, including people who use wheelchairs.

Feature	What It Needs	Why It Matters
Alarms for Everyone	Music venues should have alarms that use both sound AND flashing lights.	This way, people who can't hear the sound will still know there's an emergency.
Clear Signs	Signs should be bright, easy to see, and use pictures so everyone knows what they mean.	Easy-to-understand signs help people quickly figure out where to go and what to do, even if they are panicking or don't speak the language.
Helping Those in Need	Music venues should have a plan for helping disabled people during an evacuation. Staff should know how to help and where to find important equipment.	This makes sure no one is left behind or forgotten. Having trained staff and accessible equipment makes a huge difference!
Accessible Security	Security gates or turnstiles need to be accessible. If not, there should be another way for disabled people to get through.	Security measures shouldn't stop people from getting out safely. Everyone needs a clear path to the exit.
Guiding Features	It's helpful to have things like raised markings or textures on the floor, or Braille, to help people find the exits.	These features are especially helpful for people who can't see well. They can feel their way to the exit, even in the dark.