Marquee Hire Safety

MUTAmarq Best Practice, Standards & Accreditation

Client Responsibility for Competency

Under the Health & Safety at work act clients have an obligation to select contractors who are competent for the job in hand. (see http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg368.pdf)

An example of how clients can be held responsible can be seen at http://www.hse.gov.uk/press/2003/e03013.htm. In this case it was tree work but the same scenario can apply to a marquee contract.

MUTAmarq will help you fulfill these responsibilities:

• Accreditation means that we have checked the contractor's competence for you
• We continue to monitor site safety through random inspection
• You have recourse via MUTAmarq if your contractor does not perform safely
• The MUTAmarq skills card scheme lets you see at a glance the individual supervisor's competence level.

Important Safety Points for the Client

• Remember that you have a responsibility under the Health & Safety at Work act 1974 to assist your contractor in providing a safe environment for installation crews, you and your guests.
• Be sure that your contractor is aware of the position of any underground or overhead services, e.g. electricity, gas pipes, drains, etc.
• Ensure your power supply is adequate for the extra load of lights and equipment in the marquee. If in doubt consult a qualified electrical contractor.
• Consider fire precautions, we recommend the provision of fire extinguishers.
• Keep all flaps and doors closed in windy conditions.
• Do not alter the installation in any way. In particular do not remove cross bracing cables or bars (frame structures) or any guy ropes (pole tents).
• Use the experience and professional guidance of your MUTAmarq contractor if in doubt over any safety issue.
• Marquees for exceptional sites, during winter months or extreme weather conditions require special consideration; consult your MUTAmarq contractor.
• For your peace of mind ask to see evidence of your contractor's public liability insurance. All MUTAmarq contractors are required to maintain adequate cover.