An investigation into safety issues affecting two contrasting football stadia: Cardiff City F.C. at Ninian Park and Swansea City F.C. at the Liberty Stadium - a case-study approach.

Abstract

Background: A study was undertaken upon safety in British football stadia using case study approach; two contrasting stadiums Cardiff City FC's Ninian Park and Swansea City FC's Liberty Stadium were used. Safety at football stadia has become a large issue within the sporting world, with several disasters occurring over the past century thousands of lives have being lost due to poor safety at these stadiums. Aims: To review the current literature on the safety issues currently influencing the design and operation of football stadia. To review and analyse primary data collected, in order to move on and make recommendations upon safety issues at both stadiums. To also make recommendations for the wider issues of safety at British football stadia. Method: To conduct interview with 4 candidates, a safety representative from both stadiums and a supporter from both clubs. The results gained from the interviews were then analysed for any re-occurring patters to establish where the safety issues lay to both stadiums. Results: The main results found in the research process were: - several issues are concerning crowd control. Not enough first aider's percent at matches. Still standing area's within football stadia. Safety announcements are not being heard. Differing numbers in police level support. Conclusion: The theory of failure by legislation. Current number of first aid trained staff that must be percent at matches is not a sufficient number. It is not always the age of the stadium which makes it an unsafe environment it can be dependent upon the work of the safety team at a stadium.