This sector-specific guidance document is taken from OAUK’s research and our sector survey, with input from artists, producers, production managers, festivals and companies working in the sector, as well as health and safety advisors.

It will never be an exhaustive guide and is intended to be an adaptable checklist to be implemented with a common-sense approach. In all your work you should reflect updates in current government policy and be sure to read other government and industry guidance.

Please remember that (at the time of writing) we are still in the midst of a global pandemic and there are still restrictions in place. Ensure that any plans are responsible, legal and prepared in the best interests of your communities, audiences and colleagues. While we are enthusiastic to get back to work, safety and wellbeing must be at the heart of everything we do and we should aim to set the best example of good and well-considered practice. Be prepared to change and adapt as and when circumstances and restrictions change.

Read the OAUK Outdoor Arts Sector Guidance:

Key reference documents:

OAUK Guidance Contents

1. RISK ASSESSMENTS / METHOD STATEMENTS

2. GENERAL COMPLIANCE

  • Work in ‘Bubbles’

3. PERFORMANCES

  • Static Street Shows
  • Processions, Carnival and Parades
  • Park Events – Festivals, Melas and Music
  • Participatory Events
  • Installations, Digital and Light Nights
  • Walkabout Performers

4. BEING CREATIVE WITH SAFETY

  • Masks
  • Stilts
  • Aerial
  • Self-Contained Performances
  • Bikes, trucks and other vehicles

5. FESTIVALS – URBAN

  • Planning
  • Venue and Performance
  • Audience Limitation
  • Audience Management
  • Audience Communications

6. FESTIVALS – RURAL

  • Venues and Performance
  • Scale
  • Ticketing

7. DRIVE-IN FESTIVALS

8. PRODUCTION, TECHNICAL and RIGGING

  • Dressing Rooms
  • Travel
  • Volunteers