Quick reference: Nightclubs & Bars safety essentials
Beware the one-exit trap
Have multiple usable, unlocked, well-signed exits — and make patrons aware of them.
→ Extra exits only help if people know and use them.
Enforce a hard capacity
Count patrons in and out — and stop entry at the legal capacity.
→ Count in and out — hold at capacity, no exceptions.
Fire and crush combine fast
No pyrotechnics near flammable décor, and never let a fire route get blocked.
→ In a packed venue, fire and crush are one emergency.
Eject people safely
Remove troublemakers calmly and never into a more dangerous situation.
→ Eject calmly, in pairs — never into greater danger.
Keep fire routes clear
Stock, furniture and cables must never block a gangway or fire exit.
→ Walk and clear every fire route — every single night.
Door staff watch density, not just IDs
Trained staff should read how packed the room is, not only check who comes in.
→ Read the room's density — not just everyone's ID.
Make it official
Turn these essentials into a verifiable Crowd Management Certificate — recognised for Martyn’s Law.
Start the certificate →