This page details the process that will be followed by Dirthouse (London) Ltd and their event partners in order to provide a safe environment for the operation of outdoor markets, the traders and customers.
Wind speed and gusts
The professional grade market stalls we utilise for our outdoor markets will withstand gusts of up to 50mph, and most professional grade gazebos will withstand gusts of up to 40mph, however it is not advisable to use garden type gazebos at wind speeds in excess of 27mph. Dirthouse (London) Ltd, will not allow any gazebos or structures to be erected in wind speed gust of 46mph or greater. Only flat trading will then be allowed.
On the day prior to a market the market manager will check the weather forecast via the Met Office. If wind gust forecasts are predicted to exceed 27mph for any period during the next trading day (including erection/dismantling hours) the following process will be invoked.
For wind gusts between 27mph and 35mph
Only professional grade gazebos or structures will be allowed.
- Erecting/dismantling to take place under normal operating safe system of work (at least two persons to each stall).
- Adequate weights, or similar, must be used on individual gazebos.
For wind gusts between 36mph and 45mph
Only heavy-duty market stalls (square metal bar construction) will be allowed.
- Market stalls will be assembled by approved personnel only and will be cable tied to vehicles, posts, bollards or together to provide greater strength.
For wind gusts in excess of 46 mph
- No stalls will be erected.
- Flat trading or trading from vehicles only will be permitted.
A dynamic assessment will be made on the morning of the market day, if the wind speed gusts for the type of gazebo or structure is assessed as dangerous then this structure must not be used.
During the market set up/take down
The market manager will carry out a dynamic risk assessment during erecting/dismantling. Should they have reason to believe that the prevailing weather conditions (generally in excess of 35mph) are likely to pose a risk to traders or any members of the public, these operations will be stopped. A decision will then made as to the way forward.
During the market day
If the wind gusts appear to pick up, the Market Manager will monitor the wind speed gusts throughout the day and have the discretion to close the market should weather conditions worsen. Traders must comply with this decision.
Heavy snowfall
- The market venue will be cleared of snow prior to the event where appropriate to do so.
- The market manager may cancel the market with the agreement of the venue, if the site is deemed unsafe.
- The market manager will monitor throughout the day and request further gritting if necessary.
- In the event of heavy snowfall during market operations the Market Manager can make the decision to close the market early.
- This operation will be carried out when it is deemed safe to do so following a dynamic risk assessment.
Weather Warnings Key:
