#United States #Charlotte #Safe Tenting Standard #American Rental Association #event safety

Elevating Training and Safety Standards in Tent Installation

The event industry in the United States is booming, with over a million tented private events held annually, as reported by the American Rental Association (ARA). Supporting these events is a workforce of more than 20,000 tent installers, who are crucial to ensuring these gatherings are safe and enjoyable. Recognizing the need for enhanced safety and training protocols, the ARA has proudly launched the Safe Tenting Standard, a comprehensive program aimed at elevating industry standards.

The Need for a Safe Tenting Standard

As events increase in scale and complexity, the need for rigorous training and safety practices becomes paramount. ARA has been developing safety resources for decades; however, with the new program, the association is doubling down on its commitment to protecting its workforce—those skilled professionals who adeptly install tents. ARA CEO Tony Conant stated, "What tent installers do is a craft, a trade, and it is our job to protect them."

At a recent press conference in Charlotte, North Carolina, where the Safe Tenting Standard was unveiled, various industry stakeholders gathered to discuss the initiative's importance. Tent rental operators and manufacturers voiced their support, emphasizing the benefits of having a unified approach to safety standards across the industry.

Collaboration at its Core

Industry professionals are recognizing that collaboration is vital for success. Allan Elium, project manager at Party Reflections in Greensboro, NC, mentioned, "Bringing our two worlds together means we can establish a safe event without constantly butting heads with fire marshals and other safety officials. The more we show we are committed to doing this the right way, the more they will trust our expertise."

This initiative isn't just about compliance; it's about establishing a culture of safety that everyone can buy into. The Safe Tenting Standard encompasses various tools and resources tailored to bolster safety practices, including:

• - Ballasting Calculators: Ensuring tents are appropriately anchored against winds and other forces.
• - Ground Testing Tools: To assess site readiness and surface conditions.
• - Emergency Evacuation Plans: Detailed guides to ensure the prompt and safe evacuation of attendees in case of emergencies.
• - Site Assessment Forms: Checklists for setup that prioritize safety and compliance.
• - Training Programs: Both online and hands-on training modules for tent crews.

A Call to Action

Brian Richardson, ARA President-Elect and owner of LA Tents, was equally vocal about the industry's evolution. He noted, "Our livelihoods depend on people gathering safely. Today, our operations are light-years ahead of what they were in 1985. We must take this work seriously, requiring detailed training and focus. Safety failures reflect on all of us. I urge everyone in our industry to adhere to the Safe Tenting Standard."

The partnership between event rental companies and first responders is pivotal for public safety. During the press conference, Charlotte Fire Department’s Chief Fire Marshal James Meyers discussed how essential it is for these entities to work hand-in-hand to create a secure environment for everyone involved in an event. The President of Party Reflections and former ARA President, Dan Hooks, also shared insights into why his team undergoes the Safe Tenting Standard training, highlighting the commitment to safety from within the organization.

Conclusion

The launch of the Safe Tenting Standard marks a transformative step for the event rental industry. It fills a critical gap by providing standardized safety measures that not only protect workers but also bolster community confidence in event safety. For those wishing to learn more about this initiative, further information can be found at www.safetenting.com.

In this evolving environment, the ARA emphasizes education, advocacy, and networking opportunities for its members across the globe. With over 14,000 rental business and more than 1,000 suppliers, ARA continues to be a beacon of support and progression for the equipment and event rental industry. Founded in 1955, it stands at the forefront of ensuring safety, knowledge, and shared resources continue to grow within the sector.