Protection of public spaces, such as stadiums or sports venues, which can hold gatherings of tens of thousands of people at a time, is vitally important and impactful for the general safety of the citizens and local communities. Currently those types of objects are well prepared for the so called “traditional” threats. However, it is imperative that more effort is applied to raising knowledge, awareness and abilities in the area of counteracting and reacting to risks and threats of CBRN (chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear) nature. In response to that need the SAFE STADIUM project has developed and tested a set of procedures and recommendations with regard to CBRN safety adjusted for the specific needs and challenges presented by sports facilities.
The conference not only served the purpose of presenting the findings of the project but also allowed to hold a debate about safety in sport’s halls. The conference has been inaugurated by:
- Dariusz Joński – Polish MP
- Adam Wieczorek – Vice Mayor of Lodz
- Piotr Szor – Technical Director of City Arena of Sport and Culture
- Prof. Andrzej Kruk – Dean of the Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection
During the first part of the conference, representatives of European Commission, United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism and INTERPOL presented programmes and achievements of their institutions in the area of ensuring the security of public places. Subsequentially, representatives of the consortium presented the results of the project featuring a demonstration of equipment of Regional Police Headquarters in Lodz and Biohazard Prevention Centre of the University of Lodz, use of which was recommended in the case of CBRN emergency.
The conference was completed by a panel discussion moderated by Real Madrid representative and featuring guests of sports clubs and managers of sports halls: MŠK Žilina, Premiere League, Sport Lisboa e Benfica, PGE National Stadium as well as City Arena of Sport and Culture.
The SAFE STADIUM project has been implemented by an international consortium coordinated by the University of Lodz. The project has been funded by the European Commission’s Internal Security Funds (ISF). Further information and results are available on the project’s website.
Edit: Communications and PR Centre, University of Lodz