Dealing with Activists and Direct Action Groups Toolbox Talk

This activist protest security toolbox talk template from Health & Safety Zone provides security teams with comprehensive guidance on managing activist crowds, handling direct‑action tactics and complying with UK legislation. It covers key hazards such as crowd crush and asphyxiation, chemical irritants like tear‑gas, aggressive physical confrontations, and slip‑trip risks from barriers and spilled liquids. The template is suitable for private security firms, corporate security departments, event venues, public authorities and any organisation that may face protests, demonstrations or civil disobedience. Each section offers clear DO and DON’T actions, practical PPE recommendations and legal references to help you meet your duty of care. The content is fully editable, allowing you to insert your own company name, site‑specific risk assessments and additional procedures. Using this toolbox talk helps your team stay prepared for sudden escalations, ensures consistent communication protocols, and demonstrates to regulators that you have a documented safety system. It also supports audit readiness, outlines responsibilities such as regular SIA licence checks and incident recording under RIDDOR, and can be integrated into your existing health and safety management system. By following the guidance, organisations can reduce the risk of costly legal actions, protect their reputation and maintain a safe environment for staff and the public. HSE crowd‑management guidance, Public Order Act 2023 and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 are referenced for further detail.