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As part of the launch event, hosted in the Atlee Suite, Portcullis House in Westminster, London, industry delegates were able to get a first-look at the new online resource on health, safety and welfare for music and other events. It replaces the Health and Safety Executive’s existing HSG 195 guidance document.

The guide is available as part of an annual subscription, costing £25, which will give users access to updates and additional guidance during the 12 months.

It consists of 23 chapters, each covering a different aspect of infrastructure when putting on and managing an event. Each chapter has been developed through working groups consisting of specialists from across the industry, local government and services such as fire and police.

EIF said all funds raised through subscriptions will be used solely for funding the work of the EIF, particularly the cost of maintaining and extending the Purple Guide. Initial funds for the guide have been provided by the Concert Promoters Association, as well as other EIF members.

MP Nick de Bois, who spoke at the launch event, said there should be no reason why the new Purple Guide shouldn’t set the standard within the wider international events industry.

He added: "It is an evolving document and there are plans for more chapters. An immense amount of work has gone into it, and it should be used by the industry for aid and assistance, a single source of reference."

Jim Winship, EIF secretary, told Event the the guide is relevant to all event organisers. "People just coming into the industry who may not have much experience will be able to get the guidance they need to ensure the best health and safety practices.

"We will be adding more chapters in the coming months on licensees and child welfare, and we will also be publishing information on specific areas such as sustainability, which people will be able to access on the website but won't be directly part of the guide."

He added as a result of the new Purple Guide, EIF has become a limited company and is seeking a board of directors to help the group form a strong position and keep the guide alive for the future.

Graham Lake-Grange, EIF chairman, said: "This project has involved an immense amount of work by a large number of people, all on a voluntary basis, which just goes to demonstrate the commitment and professionalism of those working across all sectors of the industry."

For more in-depth and print-only features, showcases and interviews with world-leading brands, don't miss the next issue of Event magazine .