A packed venue, excited guests, music in full swing, but one missing detail could bring everything to a halt: security. Whether you're planning a corporate conference, awards ceremony, product launch, or something entirely different, security for events is non-negotiable. This guide walks you through exactly what you need to know to run a safe, compliant, and well-run event.

What is event security?

Event security is the planning, personnel, and procedures put in place to protect attendees, staff, and property before, during, and after an event. It involves crowd control, access management, emergency response planning, surveillance, and liaison with authorities.

Whether it’s checking guest lists, preventing unauthorised access, or responding to medical emergencies, event security teams are trained to keep things running smoothly.

What does event security do, specifically? Think of them as the people who manage risk, so your event doesn’t have to stop halfway through.

Do I need security for my event?

Not every event needs a full security team, but many do, and it’s not always immediately clear when. If you’re unsure, start by looking at the complexity of the event — think about the location, who your attendees are, and how controlled the environment is.

A small private gathering in a secure, familiar setting may not need formal security. But as soon as your event involves public attendance, live performances, multiple entry points, or high-profile guests, the risk increases — especially in venues with open access or less restricted movement.

Add media coverage, political figures, sensitive content, or VIPs, and trained security becomes essential.

Ultimately, security for event planning isn’t just about safety, it’s about professionalism, legal compliance, and peace of mind. And it’s not just about ticking a box, it should be tailored to the event type, audience, and location. When in doubt, it’s always better to speak with your venue about your specific plans.

Why is security important at events?

Strong security doesn’t just protect people, it protects reputations. Here’s what can go wrong without it:

• Gatecrashers
• Theft or damage
• Medical emergencies
• Public disorder
• Legal liability

Without events security, a minor issue can quickly escalate. It’s not just about reacting, either. Good security prevents problems before they begin, a visible team alone is a major deterrent. For guests, visible security helps them feel safe. For organisers, it means fewer disruptions and more confidence on the day.

How to hire security for an event

If you’re researching how to hire security for an event, the short answer is: go professional. Avoid DIY approaches or relying on general staff.

Here’s what to look for:

• SIA-licensed guards (Security Industry Authority)
• Experience in similar events or venue types
• Clear communication and flexibility with event planning teams
• Insurance and risk management processes

At The Brewery, we handle this for you. Our venue uses top security professionals, and every event includes tailored security planning. You won’t need to source or coordinate with multiple contractors, we’ll manage it all.

So, if you're wondering where to hire security for an event, and you’re hosting at The Brewery, you’ve already got the answer.

How many security guards do you need for an event?

If you’ve typed ‘how many security guards per person event UK’ into your computer, you’re not alone, and there’s no single answer that applies to every event. The right number depends on a few key factors: guest count, venue layout, type of event, and level of risk.

As a general rule, the standard recommendation is 1 licensed security guard per 100 guests. This gives a solid baseline, but it’s only the starting point.

At The Brewery, we require this 1:100 ratio as a minimum and scale based on the type of event. We’ll assess your needs and assign the right number of guards based on your event’s footprint and flow.

It’s not just a numbers game either, positioning matters. Guards need to be placed at entrances, emergency exits, stage areas, cloakrooms, and high-traffic zones.

How to write a security plan for an event

A security plan is a written strategy that outlines how your event will stay safe and compliant. It’s one of the first things licensing bodies or insurers will ask for.

Here’s how to write a basic plan:

Step 1: Assess the risk

Consider crowd size, location, time of day, alcohol service, VIP presence, and any potential threats.

Step 2: Define the security roles

Outline who’s responsible for access control, crowd management, emergency response, and equipment checks.

Step 3: Plan the layout

Map entrances, exits, restricted areas, security points, and evacuation routes.

Step 4: Detail emergency procedures

Include response protocols for medical incidents, fires, lost children, or public disturbances.

Step 5: Coordinate with venue and authorities

Share your plan with the venue (like us), local authorities if necessary, and your security provider.

Need a full breakdown? See our full guide on how to write a contingency plan for an event.

Host your London event at The Brewery

Security is just one part of what makes an event run smoothly, the venue is the foundation. At The Brewery, we specialise in high-spec, high-impact events with full-service planning, including professional security for events.

Located in the heart of London, our venue is built to host everything from intimate gatherings to 1,600-guest productions. Whether you’re planning a private dinner or a multi-day exhibition, we’ve hosted it, and we know exactly how to keep it running safely.

With experienced staff, vetted security, and a proactive approach to risk, you won’t need to ask how much is event security or what are the different types of security for an event, we’ll already have it worked out for you.

Need help planning your event security? Speak to our team today, we’ll make sure everything is in place so you can focus on delivering a brilliant event with us.

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