The Purple Guide is an essential resource for anyone involved in organizing and supplying outdoor events in the UK and beyond. Originally developed by the Health & Safety Executive (HSE), it provides comprehensive guidance for event organizers, suppliers, local authorities, and other stakeholders in the outdoor events industry. In 2012, the Events Industry Forum (EIF) took over the publication and has since substantially expanded and updated the guidance.
Subscribers to the Purple Guide receive regular updates on new chapters and amendments, along with e-bulletins keeping them informed about the Forum’s activities. While primarily written by UK event professionals for the UK market, the core principles of the Guide are applicable internationally, although users outside the UK must consider local regulations.
Please note that the Purple Guide is protected by copyright and may not be copied, reproduced, or commercialized without the EIF Ltd’s prior written consent.
Accessing the Purple Guide
Gaining access to this invaluable resource requires a subscription, which costs £25 plus VAT for 12 months. This subscription grants you full access to the Purple Guide website, including all updates and additional guidance added during the subscription period.
Organizations needing multiple logins can choose from various subscription plans. Payments are processed securely via Stripe, supporting both credit and debit cards – a Stripe account is not mandatory for completing the payment.
Payment via invoice is exclusively reserved for the IP access subscription. Including a Purchase Order number on the subscription form ensures it is added to the invoice.
All proceeds from subscriptions are dedicated to funding the work of the EIF, particularly the maintenance and enhancement of the Purple Guide. The EIF operates as a non-profit organization.
The Background and Development of the Purple Guide
The Purple Guide is the result of collaboration among experts from across the outdoor events industry. Its primary goal is to assist event organizers, particularly those responsible for large-scale music and similar events, in effectively managing health and safety. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) was consulted throughout its development, focusing on workplace health and safety aspects, and continues to review updates.
It’s important to note that while the Purple Guide offers extensive advice, it is not legally compulsory unless specifically stated. Some elements may exceed the minimum legal requirements for workplace health and safety. In cases of uncertainty, organizers should always refer to the official legal requirements available at www.hse.gov.uk.
The Events Industry Forum assumed responsibility for the Guide’s publication in 2012, with support from the HSE, The Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), and The Concert Promoters Association (CPA), who provided initial funding. Since then, numerous industry associations, individuals, and commercial organizations have contributed to the Purple Guide’s revisions.
Key Supporters of the Guide:
- The Health & Safety Executive (HSE): Has supported the Purple Guide from the beginning and continues to work with the Forum on health and safety aspects.
- Institute of Licensing (IoL): Contributed to the licensing aspects of the Guide and endorses it as guidance for outdoor events. The IoL promotes best practices in licensing law and regulation across the UK.
About EIF – The Events Industry Forum
The Events Industry Forum (EIF) is an informal platform that unites trade bodies and institutions within the events industry. It encourages discussion and collaboration on matters of mutual interest. Aside from publishing the Purple Guide through EIF Limited, the Forum operates without a formal structure or membership, focusing on serving the industry’s broader interests.
The EIF is supported by various organizations that have contributed to the funding and compilation of the Guide, including:
In conclusion, the Purple Guide serves as the definitive reference for event safety in the UK and a valuable resource for international event professionals. Its comprehensive coverage and ongoing updates make it indispensable for ensuring safe and successful events.
