Outdoor events are a highlight of the summer calendar, from community picnics and school sports days to high-profile music festivals and elegant outdoor weddings. But behind the bunting, burger vans and big speakers lies a crucial and potentially overlooked consideration – electrical safety.
At phs Compliance, we have supported many businesses across the UK with their electrical safety, and this includes managing the electrical requirements for outdoor events. Whether it’s a temporary power supply for a local fete or a full-on stage setup for a weekend festival, staying electrically compliant isn’t just a box to tick – it’s essential for protecting people, property and your reputation.
Here is our expert advice on how to power your outdoor event safely and remain compliant every step of the way.
Operating equipment outdoors means that safety risks are likely to multiply. These risk factors include dealing with the elements such as wet weather conditions, varied terrain, temporary infrastructure, and often, untrained members of the public. Add in live electricity, and the consequences of poor setup can be serious – causing issues such as electric shock, fires, and power outages.
Even small oversights like using indoor-only extension leads or daisy-chaining plug sockets can quickly become dangerous when exposed to rain, mud, or heavy footfall. That’s why compliance with electrical safety regulations is a legal obligation – and a moral one.
This might seem obvious, but too many organisers still leave electrical setup to volunteers or staff with no formal training. For outdoor events, always hire a qualified electrician who understands the risks of temporary power installations.
Qualified staff will ensure that:
An RCD (Residual Current Device) is your frontline defence against electrocution. It rapidly disconnects electricity if it detects a fault. All outdoor circuits must be protected by an RCD, whether powering lighting, sound systems, catering equipment or charging stations.
It’s not enough to assume the venue’s power supply includes RCD protection – it should be verified by a competent professional.
Not all plugs, sockets, lighting and extension leads are created equal. For outdoor use, equipment should be:
Never use indoor-only extension cords or sockets outdoors, no matter how dry it looks, and always use lighting that is suitably insulated for outdoor use.
Trips, tangles and temporary power don’t mix well. To avoid hazards:
Every piece of electrical kit used at the event – from stage lights to smoothie blenders – must be Portable Appliance Tested (PAT) and labelled as safe to use.
PAT testing ensures your equipment doesn’t pose a risk due to damaged wires, faulty plugs or worn-out components. You are legally obliged to make sure it’s been tested by a competent person.
If you’re renting equipment, request proof of recent PAT tests before accepting the delivery. If it’s your own, schedule a round of PAT testing before the event date.
The British summer is famously… unpredictable. All electrical equipment needs to be:
Never use tarps or plastic sheeting without considering airflow and heat buildup – it could create a new hazard while trying to avoid another.
Every event should have a designated person responsible for electrical safety. They should:
Also ensure that your event risk assessment includes electrical hazards and a clear plan for responding to electrical emergencies.
If you’re organising an event – regardless of whether you’re a school, business, local authority or private venue – you’re responsible for the safety of all attendees, staff and contractors. That includes making sure all electrical installations and equipment meet legal standards.
These key standards include:
Failure to comply can result in fines, prosecution, cancelled events, or worse – injuries and reputational damage.
At phs Compliance, we’re here to take the stress out of electrical safety. Our expert team can help you prepare for your outdoor event with confidence by offering:
Whether you’re planning a one-off community event or a multi-day commercial festival, we’ll help you stay on the right side of compliance and keep everyone safe in the process.
From temporary installations and generator setups to routine PAT testing, phs Compliance supports organisations of all shapes and sizes in managing electrical safety for outdoor events. Our nationwide team is fully qualified, highly responsive, and trusted by schools, councils, corporates and charities alike.
Don’t let a preventable electrical issue spoil your big day. Let us handle compliance so you can focus on making your event unforgettable. Learn more about how we can support you by getting in touch with our friendly, expert team for a free, no-obligation quote.
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