1. Purpose
To provide a structured framework for the management and coordination of medical services delivered at public events, festivals, or contracted private functions, ensuring a safe, professional, and effective service at all times.
2. Chain of Command
Medical Officer
Event Medical Co-ordinator
Lead Medic (Site-Level Leadership – Always Present)
Medical Staff / Crews (EMTs, Paramedics, First Aiders)
3. Communications & Radio Use
Radio Channel Allocation
- Coast Medic staff must follow the event communication plan and operate on the assigned medical or operations radio channels. This plan should be available from the event lead or event organiser.
- Radios are to be tested prior to deployment and must be carried and monitored at all times until officially stood down.
Radio Etiquette
- Keep messages brief, clear, and professional.
- Always identify yourself and your location before speaking.
- Example: “Medic 2, Treatment Point Alpha, requesting response unit.”
- Acknowledge all messages directed at you (e.g., “Copy that, en route.”).
- Do not interrupt ongoing transmissions unless there is an emergency.
4. Confidentiality on Radio
- Do not disclose patient names, ages, or detailed medical conditions over the radio.
- Use general descriptions and request further assistance via secure means if needed.
- Sensitive information should be relayed in person or by phone if necessary.
5. Radio Code Words (Sensitive Situations)
To maintain discretion over open radio channels, the following code words should be used:
| Code Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Code Red | Serious medical emergency (e.g. cardiac arrest) |
| Code Blue | Patient unresponsive or requires immediate intervention |
| Code Green | Mental health or behavioural incident |
| Code Amber | Safeguarding concern (child/vulnerable adult) |
| Code Black | Deceased patient |
| Code White | Staff welfare issue (fatigue, emotional distress) |
| Code Grey | Aggressive/violent individual or safety risk |
| Code Silver | Multi-casualty incident (MCI) |
| Code Gold | Media present or high-profile individual involved |
Always follow up code transmissions with direct contact to the Lead Medic or Event Medical Co-ordinator.
6. Documentation & Incident Escalation
- All patient contacts must be recorded appropriately on Coast Medic documentation or digital systems.
- All significant incidents, refusals of care, or transfers to NHS services must be logged and communicated to the Lead.
- The Medical Co-ordinator is responsible for escalating serious issues to the Medical Officer.
- Debriefs should be held at the conclusion of significant events or incidents, with input from all levels of the command structure.
7. Review & Compliance
This framework is reviewed annually or following a significant event requiring policy change. Staff who fail to follow this framework may be removed from operational duty and subject to further review.
