WHEN THINGS FALL DOWN…

Stage Collapse at Bearded Theory Music Festival 2009

Bearded Theory

• Near Ashbourne, Derbyshire

• 15 - 17 May 2009• 1,500 capacity• 5 stages• Various marquees,

tents, activities

Pre-Event Planning

• Draft Licence Application - Dec 2008• Advice to Organiser - Jan 2009• Emergency Planning Meeting - Jan 2009• Full Licence Application - Feb 2009• ESMP – Feb 2009• Site Visits – Feb 2009• Full Site Inspection - 15 May 2009

The Incident

• 16 May 2009• Collapse of Saddlespan S2000 Stage• 3 People Suffered Minor Injuries• Other Damage on Site• Emergency Services Attended• HSE Called into Action• LA investigation

Investigation

• Organiser employed expert contractors• Stage erected according to instructions• Wind speed monitoring undertaken• Sudden and severe weather event• Supports pulled from ground by wind• Stage structure collapsed due to

subsequent lack of support

Outcomes

• Independent structural surveyor• Greater awareness of wind loads• Weather planning – forecasts and local

stations• Wind speed monitoring• Full co-operation of organiser• Input to TDS review

Any questions?