Public liability insurance

ASK THE EXPERTS – PUBLIC LIABILITY INSURANCE Celebration time –putmembers’safetyfirst

As the Queen celebrates her 90th birthday this year, clubs around the country will be joining in the festivities – and that means fireworks! AON’s Andy Kitchener provides the following advice on staying safe.

Clubs want to protect staff, members and guests from harm or damage at all times. Fireworks have their own particular implications so it’s worth doing a thorough check through your safety procedures as well as being clear where you would stand with your insurance policy if anything went wrong.

To make sure that Public Liability Cover remains fully in force you will need to comply with the policy conditions of your insurance.

Below is a list of tips designed to help protect you during firework displays, but please do check the specifics of your policy before holding an event.

• Use experts– Certain fireworks may only be used if you have a qualified pyrotechnic technician to co-ordinate the display. This co-ordinator will need to hold valid Public

Liability insurance in respect of this activity. • Keep people at a safe distance– Spectators should be kept at a safe distance from all fireworks and behind a rope or other barrier. • Store safely – Fireworks must be kept in a closed metal box when not being used. • Inform the emergency services – The fire brigade and police should be notified prior to any event and if they give you advice then you should comply with it fully. • First aid – First aid facilities should be provided for the duration of any display.

As always, clubs will no doubt apply common sense to ensure that these events go as smoothly and safely as possible with minimal risks to all involved. Wishing you a safe, successful and stress free celebration!

CONTACT DETAILS If you have any questions about this article contact Andy Kitchener, Regional Client Manager, Aon UK Limited. t. 07714 180 551 e. andrew.kitchener@aon.co.uk.

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