The Event Suppliers’ Index has added an online survey that will enable event organisers to gauge the health and safety-awareness of their potential suppliers.

The survey, which is completed by suppliers of event services – in particular Destination Management Companies - will reveal the measures that have been put in place by companies as part of their risk management policies.

Among the areas covered by the survey are questions on risk assessment practices, whether or not a company has a health and safety manual, and the level and range of insurances that it holds.

Says Philip Haines, one of the originators of the Event Suppliers’ Index: “For event organisers, one of the most worrying aspects of selecting a new supplier, particularly those based overseas, is establishing whether or not they understand the importance of risk management and have taken steps to train staff and select their own sub-contractors to meet the required safety levels. We have come up with an easy method of self-certification that will be instantly accessible online at no cost to event organisers”.

Says Eventia Chairman Nigel Cooper: “This is a worthwhile and useful tool for event organisers, given their obligations to put in place preventative and protective measures to minimise risk.”

The Event Suppliers’ Index Health and Safety Survey will benefit responsible suppliers because it will provide the opportunity for them to publicise this specific area of good practice and client service.

Event organisers will be able to see at a glance which potential suppliers have health and safety policies and emergency procedures in place.

The Index, which was endorsed by Eventia at its recent Summer Conference can be accessed at www.eventsuppliersindex.com.

In addition to health and safety standards, the Index includes a broader range of customer satisfaction ratings.