Security concepts Cologne
Security concepts for events in Cologne
For organisers, agencies, associations and venues: a concept for entry, routes, staffing and emergencies that fits your event and can be put into practice on the day. In Cologne, the Rhein-Erft district and throughout North Rhine-Westphalia.
At a glance
Security concepts in brief
- What is a security concept?
- A written plan that describes how an event will run safely: who is coming, where it may get crowded, how entry and routes are organised, who is responsible for what and what happens in an emergency.
- When do I need one?
- The relevant authorities often require one for larger events, events in public spaces and events that carry particular risks. Even without such a requirement, it helps to clarify procedures and responsibilities in advance.
- Who is it for?
- For organisers, agencies, companies, clubs and associations, carnival societies and venue operators.
- What does it cost?
- That depends on the size and type of event, the venue and the amount of coordination required. After the initial consultation, you receive a quote.
- Who prepares it?
- Marc Derlich, owner of DERLO and a certified security and protection specialist (Fachkraft für Schutz und Sicherheit). He draws on experience from his own assignments in event security and close protection.
- Can you implement it too?
- On request. DERLO can put the concept into practice on the day of the event, with on-site management and staff. More on event security.
Contents
What a security concept contains
The scope and level of detail depend on the event. It usually covers these points:
- 01
Event description
Type, date, times, location, expected number of visitors and make-up of the audience.
- 02
Risk assessment
Which risks are realistic, where are the pinch points, which moments are critical?
- 03
Entry and access
Checks, waiting areas, tickets, guest lists and access for artists, staff and service providers.
- 04
Crowd management
Areas, routes and capacities; how crowds move at entry, during breaks and at the end.
- 05
Escape and emergency routes
Keeping routes clear, signage, evacuation and assembly points – aligned with the venue and the official requirements.
- 06
Staff planning
Number, positions, tasks and shifts of the security staff.
- 07
Communication and responsibilities
Who decides what, how are incidents reported, and who is the contact for the authorities and emergency services?
- 08
Special protection needs
Artists, speakers, guests of honour and sensitive areas such as backstage or VIP lounges.
Events
Concepts for different event formats
- Concerts and festivals
- Corporate events and trade fairs
- Club nights
- Sporting events
- Town and club festivals
- Carnival sessions and parades
- Large private events
- Events with high-profile guests
How it works
From the first conversation to the finished concept
The earlier planning starts, the more room there is for coordination and changes.
Consultation and documents
Key details of the event, venue plans, known requirements and what you have in mind.
Site visit
Looking at areas, entrances, pinch points and routes on site, together with the venue where possible.
Risk assessment
Assessing risks, identifying critical moments, defining the measures needed.
Concept and staff planning
Putting entry, crowd management, routes, positions, communication and responsibilities down in writing.
Coordination
With the organiser, the venue and, where applicable, the public order office (Ordnungsamt), police and fire service; incorporating any changes.
Implementation
On request, DERLO also takes care of the event day itself, coordinated by Marc Derlich.
Our approach
On the day of the event, what counts is what works.
A concept has to hold up in practice, not just on paper. That is why it is written from the perspective of the people who carry it out: with realistic routes, clear responsibilities and staff who know what they are meant to do.
Accountability
Planned by someone who works on the ground.
Marc Derlich draws up security concepts based on hands-on experience in event security and close protection. He knows the moments when plans are pushed to their limits, and he factors them in from the start. On request, DERLO also handles implementation on the day of the event; Marc Derlich coordinates it and is personally present in most cases.
- Certified security and protection specialist (Fachkraft für Schutz und Sicherheit, trained 2017 to 2020)
- Close protection training in Germany and abroad
- Active in close protection since 2020, in the security sector since 2016
- CQB courses, close protection medic training, driver safety training
- International operational experience, including in crisis regions
- Evacuation from crisis regions
- Preparation for travel abroad
- Licensed under section 34a of the German Trade Regulation Act (§ 34a GewO), based in Frechen near Cologne
More services
Pairs well with a security concept
Event security
Implementation with entry control, security staff and on-site management.
Carnival security
Carnival sessions, balls, parades and parties in Cologne.
Security consulting
Risk analysis for individuals, companies and travel.
Artist & VIP protection
For artists, speakers and high-profile guests.
Frechen & Rhein-Erft district
Event security right where we are based.
Event organisers & agencies
Artists, VIP guests and backstage.
Frequently asked questions about security concepts
When is a security concept mandatory for an event?
The relevant authority decides on a case-by-case basis. A security concept is often required for events with large numbers of visitors, events in public spaces or events with a higher risk. It is best to check early with the public order office (Ordnungsamt) which documents it expects.
What goes into a security concept?
Usually a description of the event, a risk assessment, entry and access rules, crowd management, escape and emergency routes, staff planning, and communication and responsibilities in both normal operation and emergencies.
How long does it take to prepare a security concept?
That depends on the size and complexity of the event and on how much coordination with the authorities is needed. Allow enough lead time so that feedback can still be incorporated.
How much does a security concept cost?
The price depends on the type and size of the event, the venue and the effort involved in the site visit and coordination. After the initial consultation, you receive a quote.
Does DERLO guarantee the permit?
No. Permits and conditions are decided by the relevant authority. DERLO prepares the concept, supports the coordination and incorporates feedback.
Can DERLO also implement the concept?
Yes. On request, DERLO provides on-site management, entry control, security staff and close protection on the day of the event. More on event security in Cologne.
Is a security concept worthwhile for smaller events too?
Often, yes, in a shorter form. Simply clarifying entry, routes and responsibilities prevents many problems that would otherwise have to be solved on the spot on the day.
Request a security concept
Briefly tell us the type, date and location of the event and the expected number of visitors. Marc Derlich will get back to you personally with the next steps.