The Event Safety Podcast

It's March Madness!  In this episode, hosts Danielle Hernandez and John Badcock explore the logistical and operational complexities of hosting the annual NCAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments. They are joined by Joey Doster (Lenovo Center, NC) and Becca Wilusz (Duke University) to discuss the bidding process, rapid scheduling, security perimeters, broadcast constraints and the challenges of managing massive crews.   These highly anticipated and widely viewed events are complicated and complex, with details from towels to hostile vehicle mitigation and our guests are well versed in the nuances of the "dance".

Hosts:

Danielle Hernandez (host)

John Badcock (co-host)

Guests:

Joey Doster | Director of Security and Guest Experience, Lenovo Center

Becca Wilusz | Assistant Director of Athletics for Game Operations, Duke University

Show Notes:   Watch March Madness Live on NCAA | NCAA.com

Host Selection & Bidding for Men's and Women's tournaments

Logistical Complexity of arena "Session" flips and rapid turnarounds

Coordinating travel and hospitality for teams, bands, and broadcast crews

Security & Public Safety collaboration with law enforcement

Managing the "Zone X" perimeter outside the venue

The Human Element, staff resilience, and accommodating live mascots

Media & Broadcast coordination and schedule management

In this episode, Danielle and Doug Bruce speak with UK events operations consultant Miriam Stone about Major Incident Planning for event operations. The conversation explores the critical differences between standard operational incidents and major incidents that require a multi-agency response. Key topics include emergency reporting, crowd management, the importance of continuous training and tabletop exercises, and empowering frontline staff to identify and report suspicious behavior. The episode also covers real-world event safety lessons and practical actions, including response strategies learned from the Manchester Arena bombing.

 

Hosts

Danielle Hernandez | LinkedIn

Doug Bruce, CSSP, CSP, MA | LinkedIn

Guest

Miriam Stone | LinkedIn

Links & Resources

JESIP: https://www.jesip.org.uk/

M/ETHANE Reporting Model: https://www.jesip.org.uk/joint-doctrine/m-ethane/

FEMA National Incident Management System (NIMS) Training: https://training.fema.gov/nims/

Left of Bang: https://www.amazon.com/Left-Bang-Marine-Combat-Program/dp/1936891301

The Purple Guide: https://www.thepurpleguide.co.uk/

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Event Safety Podcast, hosts Danielle Hernandez and Jim Digby explore the complex and visually stunning world of laser technology in live entertainment. They are joined by Roberta McHatton (Laser Safety Services) and Harry Boyde (ER Productions), who provide expert insights into the physics of lasers, the evolution of safety standards since the 1980s, and the rigorous protocols required for both indoor and outdoor productions. From managing FAA notifications for outdoor shows to the technical precision of "audience scanning," this discussion highlights how safety acts as an essential enabler for creative innovation in modern show design.

Resources

International Laser Display Association

Laser Control Hardware

Guests

Roberta McHatton | LinkedIn

Harry Boyde | LinkedIn

Jim Digby, PMP®️ | LinkedIn

Danielle Hernandez | LinkedIn

Show Notes & Time Stamps

[00:00] Introduction: Danielle shares a local connection to the co-inventor of the laser, Charles Townes.

[02:10] Meet the Experts: Introductions for Roberta McHatton and award-winning laser designer Harry Boyde.

[06:45] Laser Physics 101: A breakdown of the acronym and how photons are concentrated into hazardous beams.

[12:30] Evolution of Safety: Comparing 1983 "nightclub" setups to modern 120-watt high-powered systems.

[16:00] Termination Points: The importance of knowing where a beam ends to prevent equipment damage.

[21:15] Outdoor Regulations: The role of the FAA, the 30-day notification rule, and using tools like FlightRadar24.

[28:30] Audience Scanning: The science of using specialized lenses to make lasers safe for direct crowd exposure.

[33:45] Emergency Protocols: The "Stop, Stop, Stop" rule and the critical role of the laser operator during a live performance.

[37:10] Training and Resources: Where to find professional certification through ILDA or specialized classes.

[46:40] Closing Segment: The team wraps up with final advice for the NEXT generation of production professionals.

Danielle and guest co-host Anita Hartsock are joined by Richard Cadena to discuss the dangers of electrical shock on stages.  We explore exactly how stray current can travel through gear and people and why proper grounding is absolutely crucial.  Also, there is discussion about some real incidents that illustrate the point and prove why a non-contact voltage sniffer should be a part of your tool kit. Join this electrifying conversation and learn about Richard's new book on entertainment electrical safety, his Substack and other electrical resources.  Let's work together to keep all our training current and everyone safe.
Resources:
Richard's website, Richard Cadena
TSP ANSI 1.17
Richard Cadena | LinkedIn
Anita Hartsock | LinkedIn

Hey friends! We’re getting a little bit "in the weeds" today, and behind the scenes at The Event Safety Alliance.  ESA is going through an exciting transition, and we are so delighted to be joined by our new leadership team to talk about what’s next for our Life Safety First mission.
www.publichealtheverything.com