What is an Event Management Plan (EMP)?

An event management plan (EMP) is the master document setting out how an event will be organised, staffed and kept safe, often submitted to the local authority before it can go ahead. It brings together the site layout, safety arrangements, staffing and emergency plans in one place, so everyone involved understands how the event will run.

How an event management plan is built

An EMP is written and approved in five stages:

  1. Describe the event: set out what it is, where, when, who it is for and expected numbers.
  2. Assess the risks: carry out a risk assessment and decide how each risk is controlled.
  3. Write the plans: add the site plan, crowd management, security, medical, traffic, welfare and emergency plans.
  4. Consult: share it with the local authority, emergency services and, in the UK, the Safety Advisory Group (SAG).
  5. Update and use: revise it as plans change, and brief every team from it before the event.

An EMP draws on many documents from many teams, which organisers keep together with documents in Crescat.

Event management plan vs risk assessment

A risk assessment identifies hazards and how to control them. An event management plan is broader: it includes the risk assessment, plus how the event is organised, staffed and run. The risk assessment is one chapter of the EMP.

What an event management plan usually includes

  • Event overview, organiser and key contacts
  • A scaled site plan
  • Risk assessments
  • Crowd management and security plans
  • Medical, first aid and welfare provision
  • Traffic, transport and access routes
  • Emergency and evacuation procedures
  • Command structure and event control

Frequently asked questions

Is an event management plan a legal requirement?

Not always by name, but organisers have a legal duty to manage health and safety. Local authorities and licensing conditions often require an EMP for larger or outdoor events.

Who writes the event management plan?

The event organiser or their safety advisor, with input from production, security, medical and other suppliers. Many larger events employ a dedicated safety officer.

Where can I find guidance on writing an EMP?

In the UK, The Purple Guide is the main industry guidance. Many local councils also publish their own EMP templates, which show what they expect to see.

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