Risk Management Strategies for Mega Events: Olympic Games Analysis

This report provides a comprehensive analysis of risk management in mega events, with a specific focus on the Olympic Games. The report begins with an introduction that outlines the background, statement of the problem, research aims and objectives, research questions, and the significance of the research, along with the organization of the report. The literature review explores potential risks associated with the Olympic Games, including security threats, financial risks, and logistical challenges. It examines risk management strategies and plans, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures and adaptability. The methodology section details the research type, approach, philosophy, design, data collection, analysis, and sampling methods used in the study. The data analysis chapter presents the findings on risk identification, risk management plans, and essential features of risk management during the Olympics. The report concludes with recommendations for enhancing risk management practices, ensuring the safety and success of future Olympic Games. The research highlights the importance of identifying potential hazards, developing comprehensive security plans, and integrating risk management into the overall planning of mega events.

RISK MANAGEMENT IN MEGA EVENTS
SUCH AS OLYMPIC GAMES

TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................1
1.1 Background of topic.........................................................................................................1
1.2 Statement of problem.......................................................................................................1
1.3 Research aim and objectives............................................................................................2
1.3.1 Aim ......................................................................................................................2
1.3.2 Objectives.............................................................................................................2
1.4 Research questions...........................................................................................................2
1.5 Significance of research...................................................................................................2
1.6 Organisation of research chapter......................................................................................3
CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW ........................................................................................4
2.1 Introduction......................................................................................................................4
2.2 Possible risks associated with Olympic Games................................................................4
2.3 Plans and strategies of management for mitigating risks associated with Olympic Games. 6
2.4 Essential features of risk identification and management during Olympic Games..........7
CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY ..........................................................................11
3.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................11
3.2 Research Type ...............................................................................................................11
3.3 Research approach..........................................................................................................11
3.4 Research philosophy.......................................................................................................12
3.5 Research Design.............................................................................................................13
3.6 Data collection................................................................................................................13
3.7 Data analysis...................................................................................................................14
3.8 Sampling.........................................................................................................................14
3.9 Validity and reliability....................................................................................................14
CHAPTER 4: DATA ANALYSIS ...............................................................................................16
4.1 Introduction....................................................................................................................16
4.2 Risk identification at Olympic Games...........................................................................16
4.3 Risk management plan to coordinate mitigation and management for identified risk...17
4.4 Essential features of risk identification at Olympic Games...........................................19
CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION and RECOMMENDATION .......................................................21

Recommendations................................................................................................................21
REFERENCES..............................................................................................................................23

CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background of topic
Risk is that situation which occurred during any event of life that is mainly exposed to
danger, loss or harm to someone or something. This something which is valuable like that of
financial wealth, emotional well being and social status or physical health as well and occurred
after loss of these things. The risk results from foreseen or unforeseen, intentional or
unintentional, planned or not planned and actioned or inaction events which needed to be
identified, mitigated or managed (Scott, Rutty and Fang, 2018). As in simple words, risk means
that any event or action is either planned or unintentional and causing harm to person, place or
anything. Risk is involved in any event either that is linked with human or not like in business,
planning any future events, health and even in mega events like that of Olympic Games or FIFA
World Cup etc.
Olympic Games are one of the leading international athletic and sports events that are
having both winter and summer sports competitions having sportsperson from around the world
within variety of activities. There are numbers of nations participating in these Games, that is
about 200 countries and are been conducted every 4 years in winter and summer season.
These games are inspired by an event that took place in Olympia, Greece in 8th Century
BC to 4th century AD. Then the official Olympic Games were held in 1896 in Athens, Greece
after formation of International Olympic Committee (IOC) (DICkSON, EDwARDS and
TERwIEL, 2015). Then after this, in 21st century, there were many modifications in it like
introduction for Paralympic games for physically disabled and Young Olympic Games for
children aged from 14-18. So these games are also having adverse exposure to various types of
risk that will be discussed in this particular dissertation.
The report is based on analysing various ways and procedures of risk management in
mega events like Olympic Games and also discussing its features of risk identification and
mitigation process.
1.2 Statement of problem
Risk is an event that could be caused at any point of time and due to any other activity
leading loss of property or health of person. There are many types of risk that are associated with
holding on Olympic events which is an international sports games. So it is required that these
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risks are mitigated in effective and efficient manner so that probability of occurrence of any
event is lowered.
1.3 Research aim and objectives
1.3.1 Aim
To analyse the ways and procedures of risk management in mega events: A case study on
Olympic Games
1.3.2 Objectives
 To determine possible risks associated with Olympic Games
 To evaluate plans and strategies of management for mitigating risks associated with
Olympics.
 To identify essential features of risk identification and management during Olympics.
1.4 Research questions
 What are the risks that have been recognized for Olympic Games?
 How does risk management plan to coordinate for the mitigation and management of the
anticipated risks?
 What are the essential features of risk identification and management during Olympic
Games?
1.5 Significance of research
This particular research will be important for the security management of Olympic
Games so that they could be analysing what are the risks associated and how could they decrease
impact of these risks. This dissertation will be significant to those who are working in these
Games or exposed to higher level of risk from others like athletes or management as well (Peters
and Schnitzer, 2015). The research is also helpful for students who are pursuing their higher
degree of education in this relevant field of risk management. Other than this, it will be important
for those who are professional in this risk assessment and management field as well.
1.6 Organisation of research chapter
Chapter 1: Introduction- This chapter is the starting part of any dissertation which describes
the whole project including rationale, significance, background of topic and aim and objectives
of research as well.
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Chapter 2: Literature review- Under this section, various elements and components of this
undertaken research will be written in both negative and positive aspects (Sykes, 2016). There
will be many authors or writers who have written their books or journals based on similar topics
of risk management.
Chapter 3: Research methodology- There are many types of methods, tools and techniques that
are used or analysed by various researchers like sampling technique, data collection, data
analysis and research strategies.
Chapter 4: Data analysis- This part is one of the most essential ones which include analysis of
collected data that what is concluded or gained by the information.
Chapter 5: Conclusion and recommendation- This sums up the entire dissertation into
meaningful and correct conclusion to be drawn and including various recommendations for next
research to be conducted.
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CHAPTER 2: LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
Literature review can be described as narrative review which is a type of review article.
Current knowledge including methodological and theoretical contribution are involved in this
section along with substantive findings for the present topic of analysing risk management in
mega events such as Olympics.
In this section, materials and information is collected from different journals, articles,
online websites and blogs to determine factors and elements associated with the case study
effectively. Critical analysis of information presented in literature review helps to understand
topic in detail. It also surveys other sources whether it is relevant to the area of research or to
provide summary, description and critical evaluation of information to the investigation issues
investigated. This section helps to ensure better understanding of the topic to identify key
potential areas of research for further investigation.
2.2 Possible risks associated with Olympic Games
According to Joo, Bae and Kassens-Noor, (2017) there are some major concerns by event
organisers such as risks involved in hosting mega events. Mega events pose significant
opportunities, liabilities, risks and challenges for business and government. Risk environment
associated with such events is constantly reflects a wide range of danger, contemporary trends
and stresses such as threat of cyber-attacks, terrorism, environmental hazards, technological
accidents, natural disasters, systemic economic risk and shift in the global power balance, to
name a few.
Rising cost and revenue increases the financial risks associated with such events and also
continue to grow while logistics become more complex within the global network of corporate
firms, experts and stakeholders that are involved in events. Range from the quite prosaic to
extreme is one of the major risk faced by mega events but different crucial dynamics suggest that
government may become problematic for these events, rather than less in the future. It is not a
coincidence that risk and its management has become increasingly influential dimension for any
business or event planning. In addition to this, specific risks are associated with mega events that
give rise to different hazards across range of areas concerned to their staging and preparation.
Security and safety of people coming from outside the country in order to enjoy event is an
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important aspect for management. It is crucial for them to ensure their safety and security during
the event. Preparation of mega event takes time and plans are also resistant to last minute
changes as emerging hazards or risks have potential large impact on event. Strategies and plans
are flexible to implement certain changes made by the management team to organise a successful
event effectively. Trends in emerging risks are also a crucial factor in changing parameters of
business.
Security management and measurement for mega events include identification of
potential hazards, production facilities, vehicle movement, migration for people coming from
outside the host nation, restriction on sale and purchasing of weapons, explosive substances and
public meetings. Olympics and other mega events require important obligations of fans, visitors,
teams, players and other members to ensure their safety and security. The government must
ensure implementation of rigorous anti-terror measurements to provide safety from terror attacks
(Michopoulou and Giuliano, 2018). A clear security plan and preparation is needed to complete
the event without any anticipated risks. Personal safety and security of people coming from
outside the nation is crucial for the government that number of security staff and police is
assigned during the event effectively. This is important for both the government and organisation
to evaluate all the factors and elements associated with event. It is also authorised to staff
members to develop security policies for event. Mostly, digital and electronic equipment such as
drone is used to boost security level for delivering effective safety plans for the people coming
from outside the nation. For an example, digital scanner system is installed at airports, stations
and other subways near and around the stadium.
Security concerns and protection needs to be tight during Olympics as each vehicle
entering in the city must be searched. Ashton, (2016) stated that risk management is about
evaluation, identification and prioritisation of risks followed by economical application and
coordinated resources to reduce, control and monitor impact of unfortunate events. This also
helps to increase realisation of opportunities efficiently.
Risk assessment plan is required before making strategies and plans to reduce the impact of
risk. This will help to determine issues and risks involved in mega events to consider them in risk
management. A lot of people came to see and enjoy Olympics and mostly from outside the
country, that it is crucial to consider proper precautions to reduce risks. Controversial issues
raised before in Olympic games has a level of racism in mega events.
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2.3 Plans and strategies of management for mitigating risks associated with Olympic Games
According to Grix, Brannagan and Houlihan, (2015) major events present a special rest
for technology and system of risk management. Policy makers are responsible for prioritising
risks used to monitor and analyse information. Risk profile for sporting and other events appear
to conflict with avoiding tendencies of policy makers. Effective plans and risk management
could make positive impact on life cycle of events. Precise security and safety measurement
should be integrated into planning of mega events. Critical infrastructure is a key component of
developing security strategy based on preventions.
There are many security agencies and organisations provides safety and security for
visitors coming to see games and events. Here are some examples of services provided by these
agencies and businesses:
Close protection: People thinks that hiring a bodyguard is only done by rich people. In this
modern world, everyone wants to be safe and secure and now, they are more aware of these
concerns. Close protection services help to ensure own safety in this dangerous world. Many
businesses provide operatives for the need and requirement of consumer consideration for both
female and male. It is an ideal solution for people who want their safety during such events as
close protection and especially for them who are coming from outside the nation. People
normally live in fear of terrorism and other hazardous things in publicised events such as
Olympics.
Secure transportation: Transportation is one of the major issues for people during such events as
they travel to enjoy matches. Roads and other systems might be engaged during this event as
people travel (Solberg, 2017). In that case, self-driving is not a correct solution for people
coming from outside the nation.
One of the main reasons behind this is that they are the common targets for criminal
activities. Thus, a safe and secure transportation service will be more effective. Businesses and
security agencies relating to this field have planning for safe transportation of people, luggage
and goods. By securing transportation services, people are able to ensure their own protection
and personal items that are carried out during this journey. This will help to transport goods
safely to the destination. In addition to this, 24/7 monitoring and security system ensures optimal
safety and protection from unwanted hazards effectively.
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The management requires long term arrangements for a mega event such as Olympics to
complete it successfully and effectively. The pre-planning of management about collecting
information on event and its venue help to conduct proper risk and threat analysis. Organisers
also face challenges regarding balancing requirements of security and public safety with
convivial nature of games. Security and safety of people is important as it affects their well-
being. It is freedom for people from emotional and physical harm. Guards and officers are
appointed for security premises by patrolling property, monitoring equipment’s, inspecting
buildings such as access points and permitting entry. They can obtain help by sounding alarms.
Further, damages and losses could be reduced by reporting irregularities.
Wang and Bao, (2018) stated that security of mega events is a hot issue for everyone
these days. Large public events require effective security measures and safety policies to
complete it successfully. It is common that people fall ill and become injured in such events so it
is crucial for the management to have plans for medical emergencies. Security staff is also
responsible for monitoring signs of engaging in illegal activities or illness that could lead to a
major injury to anyone. Event type and demographic of attendances also reveal emergency
patterns that could easily take place during the event. It is very common that events are
surrounded with threats and issues that management needs to be effective to manage certain
things during the event effectively.
2.4 Essential features of risk identification and management during Olympic Games
Five stage risk management model
Risk management is a systematic process of analysing, identifying and responding to
risks associated with the event.
This may be break down into sub-processes which are described below:
Risk identification: It is a combination effort of analysing potential events which may have a
negative impact on assets, individuals’ and environment. Second is to make judgements on
tolerability of risks on the basis of risk analysis while managing factors that can influence whole
process.
Qualitative risk analysis: It is a project management technique consider the risk probability of
event occurring and its impact (Burgo and Cromartie, 2018). Risks have both impact and
probability. Qualitative risk analysis aids in determining characteristics of identified risk and
prioritising accordingly.
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Quantitative risk assessment: It is an analysis of highly prioritise risks during the mega event
which is a quantitative rating assigned to develop a probabilistic analysis of the project
effectively. It also provides parameters to define risks.
Risk response planning: Risk response planning refers to strategies and plans managed and
controlled by management to prepare for the identified risks associated with the mega events. It
involves determining ways from which risks and threats can be reduced or eliminate from the
project. This helps to provide opportunities to enhance their impact. It also considers finding the
best solution towards problem to respond to risks. Certain risks and issues can be figured out by
recognising the best strategy to solve them.
Risk monitoring and control: Risk monitoring and controlling helps to prevent chances of
occurring risks. Mega events and other sporting programs are associated with major risks. The
process is applied to monitor identified risks. This will help to ensure proper execution of
planned risk responses to determine overall effectiveness of management plan to minimise risks.
Possible hidden dangers during the mega events
Mass of participants: One of the most significant characteristics of mega events is the high
density of people. There are some issues such as conflicts that may be easily turned into brawling
and fights and sometimes even more serious problems. Due to different religion, age, personal
behaviour, occupation and other differences of participants, psychological judgements, self-
awareness and self-defence ability exists and would make the issue more complicated. The
blindness and randomness of people can make easy issues to cause jams and crowds. Some
people aim to cause safety issues as crimes.
Uncertainty: Accidents could happen anywhere and anytime during a mega event. There is no
time to address signs of an accident, even to notice what is happening. In addition to this,
disasters may take place even quicker in a huge crowd Tennent and Gillett, (2016). Thus,
security agencies and management requires effective precautions towards managing such risks
associated with mega events effectively.
Terrorist attacks: The aim of terrorist now is more random and no one knows where the bomb
would explode. Crowded place such as mega events and other programs are the primary targets
for them. These are also changing into public and commercial activities. People coming from
outside the nation are more concerned with this issue.
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Comprehensive risk management program is used to provide facilities for Olympics to
keep it under the budget and ahead of schedule. The games could be completed safely and
effectively if things are managed from the beginning. In addition to this, a risk management
software is used by developers to prepare for the facilities required for event.
One of the most essential elements of comprehensive risk management plan is that it
helps to discuss issues and risks involved in Olympics and other such events and also to provide
guidelines to complete projects safely and successfully under the budget.
According to Roche, (2017) Risk management is crucial, especially in a world of
enhancing interconnectivity and complexity in which safety and security, issues and management
strategies are exposed to establish and determine emerging risks associated with the events. Risk
management plan and mitigation plan helps to handle potential risks and threats that may have
significant impact on safety of people and security of participants.
Risk profile: It is important to develop a risk profile especially for those who are involved in
mega events such as Rio Olympics. Holistic approach will help to consider various kinds of risks
which has an impact on planning and strategies. The corruption scandals and potential impact of
such cases on people may led to dissatisfaction. Thus, it is crucial to take a broad approach to
assess top level risks. The next step is to evaluate measures of operational risks. This involves
developing a matrix including approaches, separate risk and strategies to mitigate them.
Prioritisation: There are so many risks needs to be consider by management that effective
prioritisation is required to be confident about preparation. This process was complex for the Rio
Olympic that resources were limited and instead of focusing on risks, they focused on those that
posed bigger threats Giesen and Hallmann, (2018). The team identified almost 600 factors based
on financial and potential operational impact.
Monitoring: It is important for the risk management authorities to monitor identified risk factors
that may change their potential impact. Monitoring includes regular status updates, measures,
risk probability etc. This will help to manage and control emergence of risks during the event.
Monitoring also helps to reduce chances of meeting any risk factor or hazard by managing all the
elements effectively.
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Training: Training is very important as officers, security forces and other members involved in
safety and security services must know about all the factors and elements associated with this
event. Training refers to providing information regarding operations and other activities so that
they can pay attention towards major areas of the event.
Flexibility: Contingency plans and strategies are required to manage risks which can be
emerging or involved in further activities (Smith, 2014). Plans made by management team
should be flexible enough to manage and accept last minute changes. This will help to control
overall risk management structure to provide better services in terms of safety and security to
people and participants effectively.
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CHAPTER 3: RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3.1 Introduction
Research methodology is that part of dissertation which includes various tactics,
strategies, tools and techniques to be undertaken while doing a project or completing
dissertation. Research methods will have parts like sampling to be taken, data collection and
analysis techniques to be undertaken so that they could generate valid results and conclusion
(Dudovskiy, 2016). Under this type of research which is discussing risk management ways and
procedures within mega events , there will be many types of research methodology to be used.
All these methods will help in gaining more and more authentic results and conclusion by the
data collection, that is primarily based on secondary sources of information.
3.2 Research Type
Generally, there are 2 types of research which are undertaken to evaluate important parts
of research elements such as qualitative and quantitative types. In qualitative type of research,
main description is done in form of feelings and written in words such as including descriptive
type of data. While quantitative will be including data which is covering any sum or information
(Žikić, 2016). So while taking primary data obtained from fresh sources like asking to public and
including surveys that are based on polling. Quantitative research is normally based on statistical
data or analysis of information using statistics as means for identifying relations of various
factors.
On other hand, qualitative data will be having in-depth study of entire topic by answering
different types of questions that are asked in starting part of research. This will be of high value
for researchers to value and mention about viewpoints of data for public. So for this dissertation
which is describing various risk and procedures of managing them in mega events like that of
Olympic qualitative type of research will be undertaken.
3.3 Research approach
Approach is the procedure which is comprising various types of steps to be undertaken in
data collection and interpretation of those collected data as well. There are mainly 3 types of
research approaches which are used within research such as deductive, inductive and abductive.
In the inductive type of research approach, there will not be including any type of
hypothesis (Research Approach, 2018). This will be start with observing and including various
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types of theories that are having one specified proposed which will be directed towards
conclusion part of research. This type of research will also be including search of various
observations and explanation of set theories and not having or formulating any sort of hypothesis
as well.
While on other hand, deductive type of research will be primarily concerned on
hypothesis that would be based on designing a particular strategy for research. This type of
research would mean that it is concerning about giving reasoning to particular towards
generalising it (Farooq and O'Brien, 2015). Deductive type of approach will also be implied to
basic theory or the case study so that relationship between various variables could be identified.
So in this given dissertation which is related to analysing procedures and ways to risk
management, use of inductive type of research approach will be done. As this will be based on
formulating aim and objectives of this study and then including various types of written studies
to prove that there are many types of risk involved in mega events such as Olympic.
3.4 Research philosophy
This philosophy involves making certain beliefs and thoughts on particular topic so that it
could be discussed in-depth and results or conclusions will be drawn at the end of research.
There are basically 4 types of research philosophies which could be used by any researcher,
which includes positivism, interpretivism, pragmatism and realism (Weber, 2017).
Philosophy in research is mainly concerned about nature of sources, type of data and how
this could be used within specified context. As researchers collect data based on either primary
or secondary sources so that conclusion and recommendations can be clearly made.
Positivism type of philosophy will deal about identifying only verified objectives of that
which is indulging some sort of logics and mathematics to deal out with. Interpretivism will be
that approach that deals with social science and not natural science like it is done in positivism.
All qualitative types of data will be used to inquire about what is to be concluded and
how it is to be conducted. Pragmatism will be that philosophy helping in evaluating all types of
theories and beliefs in terms of practical application of those theories. Realism is also known as
ontology which deals with viewing any type of objective to be independent and real.
So within this research, positivism philosophy will be used. This is done so that
researcher is able to include all type of methods and theories related to risk management so that
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it becomes easy to identify and mitigate probability of happening of any event which could cause
danger to life or property in Olympic Games.
3.5 Research Design
Design of research will be valid use of type of methods for collection of data, source of
data, identified sampling and variety of analysis techniques used (Adhariani, Sciulli and Clift,
2017). This will be describing formulation of design and planning of specified events and
answering of questions or objectives which are specified at the starting of research plan. There
are mainly 4 types of research designs that could be used by researcher while conducting study
such as descriptive, experimental, correlational and quasi-experimental.
This is important for researchers include what are they going to find out or what is their
aim. Descriptive type of design will include various types of case studies or observations by
collected data so that they could find out specified results.
Experimental includes testing of various variables with random assessment so that their
relationship could be measured. Correlational will be observational study of various types of
research case control study (Clark, Tiplady and Woolner, 2017). While quasi-experimental will
be something which is related to field study or experiment that is usually done by experts of that
field.
In this current study, descriptive type of research design will be used. This allows
researchers to follow and achieve aim and objectives of study by applying various data and the
process will be evaluated as well.
3.6 Data collection
This is the main essence and foundation of any type of research to be conducted as this
includes data, facts, figures and information to be collected to achieve aim and also to counter all
the research objectives and questions.
Data collection is the process of gathering, identifying by means of information that is
both valid and authentic for any research to be conducted (Mansell, Carey and Tai, 2015). There
are 2 sources for gathering information as primary and secondary.
Primary source is collected by researcher themselves, from questionnaire (close ended
questions), interview (open ended questions), conducting experiment and many more. While
secondary includes information to be collected from already published sources like books,
journals and relevant websites or online portals.
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Within this, data will be collected from secondary sources so that researchers could
identify the associated risks and its related management procedures for mega events like
Olympics.
3.7 Data analysis
After collection of valid and authentic data, it needs to be analysed which means that
discussion on the results are generated so that conclusion could be drawn. Data analysis is also
having 2 types of methods including qualitative and quantitative both will be having discussion
criteria (Farooq and O'Brien, 2015).
Qualitative data analysis will be mainly used for data collected from secondary sources as
it will be based on thematic analysis or by including various theories or frameworks. While
quantitative data analysis technique is done from primary collected data. Under this, various
techniques and tools like SPSS and Excel can be used with the help of formulation of charts and
graphs to denote correct results.
3.8 Sampling
This is extracting small size of data to be used within research from larger population so
that results are generated. Sampling will be of 2 types including non-probability and probability.
Within non-probability, sampling is done based on non-random bases where no single
sample will have a chance of having randomly selected or to be included within research (Žikić,
2016).
While in probabilistic, all individuals from larger population will have equal chance of
been included within research. So within this research where secondary type of data will be by
applying probabilistic type to give equal chances of inclusion for all articles, books and journals
from 2010 to 2018.
3.9 Validity and reliability
This will be important part of any type of research which includes a validity for results
generated and reliability of data that is collected (Dudovskiy, 2016). Validity refers to that extent
to which results are concluded and proved to be correct and legal. While reliability is concerned
with obtaining correct and authentic data so that results of those could be relied.
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So both these elements must be used within each of the research indicating all data to be
reliable and results generated to be valid as well.
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CHAPTER 4: DATA ANALYSIS
4.1 Introduction
Within this section, all collected data need to be evaluated so that valid conclusions could
be drawn based on secondary information. There are many tools and techniques used for
identification of risk, mitigation of them and then making the management plan. The risk
identified in Olympics could be risk of causing fire, hazards, danger to life of athletes or
employees working there (Getz and Page, 2016). There are certain findings that are concluded
after conducting the research in specified field by ensuring that they need to be mitigated.
Data analysis part will be conducted based on information collected and then evaluating
what needs to be done and how aim will be achieved. So secondary data which is collected need
to evaluate so that valid and reliable conclusions could be drawn based on objectives and aim of
this particular study. This is done using qualitative method and no tool or technique will be used
like SPSS or Excel.
4.2 Risk identification at Olympic Games
There are many types of risks that is identified at mega events like Olympic Games with
having evidence from Rio Olympic 2016 (Galily, Tamir and Samuel-Azran, 2016).
Environmental risks involving Zika virus, explosions and filthy water were amongst the most
prevalent ones during Rio Olympics 2016. But the most commonly threats included terrorism,
illegal betting, cyber-attacks and frauds (Managing Olympic Risks, 2018). Mega events are the
most vulnerable to normal accidents that might be source of risk to stakeholders, example
operation, reputation-al and financial risk. There are many risks that could take place during
Olympic events which will allow management to prepare so that they could lower down the
effect.
As it was noticed that Olympics is forming reflection of the social, political and
economic power of the country hosting these events? Conducting these types of huge events
includes induction of man power, resources, finance and time. With the evolution of global
media, none of these risks identified could be supressed by the management of Olympics so it is
very easily heightened (Whelan and Molnar, 2017).
Risk management and security planning is a part of Olympics package as it will be
gathering of both international and national players. It will be required by organiser of these
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events with having managing risk whether it is financial or operational risk. Each of the risk
which is taking place must be included as lessons learnt from it so that risk is mitigated within
every 4 years.
The Home Office’s Safety and Security Strategic Risk Assessment (OSSSRA) will be
identifying these risks and threats like public disorder, accidents and terrorism . The process of
identification of these risks will involve methods like asking employees who are working at these
mega events, interviewing athletes taking part as they are the ones who are prone to risk and
hazard more than anyone (Peters and Schnitzer, 2015).
So it is advised to Olympics committee to correctly identify the types of risks which
could be associated with the happenings of event so that they are planning to manage. The risk
identification process need to be followed in each Olympic and is required to learn lessons from
past events especially that of 1988 Winter Olympics and that of Rio in 2016. This will be helping
in the upcoming Tokyo Olympic in 2020, in identifying risks beforehand only.
4.3 Risk management plan to coordinate mitigation and management for identified risk
Risk management plan includes documents which are prepared for the foreseen risk, with
estimating its impact and defining the response to issues containing in risk assessment matrix.
During Olympics, it is required that management or security agencies are following the steps
involved in risk management process so that they are able to decrease the overall impact of risk.
The process will be having all important points with the action plan that is needed by the
Project Manager of these events.
Step 1: Identify risk- This includes identification and recognising or describing the risk which
could affect Olympics or its results (What are the 5 Risk Management Steps in a Sound Risk
Management Process? 2018). While there are number of techniques and tools for this to find out
what are the risks could be there but Project Risk Register must be followed which is the most
correct one.
Step 2: Analyse risk- At the time when risk is identified, it will be important to determine the
likelihood or consequence of risk that are listed. Then project manager need to understand what
is the form of risk that is affecting goal and objective and this will be mentioned into Project
Risk Register.
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Step 3: Evaluate risk- it will be require ranking or evaluate each risk by identifying amount of
loss it could cause. This will call to as risk magnitude that is both consequence and likelihood
then identifying whether to take that risk seriously or not. This is done with filling risk
assessment matrix.
Step 4: Treat risk- It will include steps involved in treatment of each of the serious risk
identified. Especially that risk which has a higher rank need to be planned at priority so that
probability could be minimised by creating strategies.
Step 5: Monitor and review- This forms the last step including monitoring of treatment of the
risk so that it is reviewed whether its impact is lower or not.
The risk management strategies will also be required to be followed for lowering the
impact of risks or threats which is the end result of the management plan.
There are some risk strategies that must be used by security agencies of the Olympic
Games management
Avoidance- Under this strategy, eliminating impact of risk or withdrawing from the happening of
threats and not becoming involved in area which is risk prone will be included (4 successful
strategies your organization can use to manage risk, 2018). So Olympic committee could be
avoiding all these types of risks by not allowing athletes or employees going to risk prone area.
Reduction- This strategy is considered as one of the best as this have mitigating or optimising of
risk. Installation of security systems, management planning, security service agencies and
software development could be used as reducing chances of happening of unforeseen events at
Olympics.
Sharing- This will be sharing or transferring of risk to some other party which is only done for
financial management. Like if Olympic committee is doing insurance of its whole event from
any third party than it will be one of the strategy of sharing of risk.
Retention- This is accepting and then budgeting of risk that is involved with Olympic Games.
With the retention of all types of risk, its catastrophe effect would also be mitigated as then they
would be having budget to overlook or finance that happening of event. So Olympic committee
could choose to accept certain amount of risk which is not too serious and any loss that may
subsequently raise.
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4.4 Essential features of risk identification at Olympic Games
Risk identification is a process for determining and recording potential project risks
which can affect project delivery. Outputs of the risk assessment are usually used as an input for
risk analysis. There are different methods from which hazard can be easily identified such as
analysing factors that cause risks, ranking of risk, treatment and finally monitoring and
reviewing danger.
Risk response can be described as developing strategic options and evaluating options to
increase opportunities and to reduce danger factors and threats towards objectives of project
effectively. Essential features include risk analysis that helps to determine and manage key
issues.
Identification of possible threats is important before hazard analysis. Risk can be
described as an uncertain event that affects desired goals and objectives. Proper methods are
required to manage anticipated risks associated with Olympics. Security agencies and
management both requires effective strategies and precautions towards managing anticipated
risks associated with mega events effectively. In addition to this, a risk management plan should
be used by developers to prepare for facilities and requirements required for event.
There are many essential features that has been identified related to risk assessment and
management during mega events such as Olympics (Brown, Smith and Assaker, 2016). Risk
identification includes strategy and plan to determine factors which have a significant impact on
events effectively. It is an uncertain event may take place during the event anytime and
anywhere.
Training is also required for officers and other members so that they can address all the
factors and operational activities connected with the event to make plan and strategy.
Comprehensive data base and other strategies are used to identify risks and factors that can cause
risks. There are many risks that could take place during Olympics or any other mega event which
would be allowing getting management prepare along with strategies and plans so that they could
lower down the negative impact.
It can be said that a clear and strong security plan along with preparation is required to
complete any event without any fear of anticipated risks. The pre-planning of management about
collecting information on the event and its venue will also help to conduct proper risk and threat
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analysis effectively. Risk identification can be described as a combination effort of analysing
potential events which may have a negative impact on assets and mostly on individuals.
Monitoring risk and associated factors will help to ensure proper execution of planned
risk responses to determine overall effectiveness of management plan to minimise or eliminate
risks. In addition to this, risk identification is a very difficult process in case of mega events that
number of things are involved which can produce risk factors for people and participants.
Management requires proper and pre-planned analysis of factors such as list of people coming
from outside the nation, checking at airports and stations, vehicle checking and band on firms
that are producing harmful goods or gases near the stadium. These are some necessary actions
amended by the government to deliver safety from outside region. The major protection is
required inside the stadium in which security guards, officers and trained guards are appointed to
determine any kind of risk associated with the event effectively and efficiently. There are
number of risks associated with such mega events that effective plans, strategies and
coordination between management and security officers is required to manage the level of risk
effectively. In addition to this, risk management plan includes documents which are prepared for
the foreseen risk, with estimating its impact and defining the response to issues containing in risk
assessment matrix. This will help to determine risks and also used for the future events to
identify scope of risks. Essential features of risk management helps to evaluate risks associated
with mega events that helps to make plans and strategies accordingly.
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CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION and RECOMMENDATION
It can be concluded from the above report that security and safety of participants, people
and other members is an important factor while organising a mega event such as Olympics.
Brazil organised the last Rio Olympics 2016, which held from 5th to 21th August. It was the
biggest event ever hosted by Brazil. There were limited resources available in the city so the
target investments were needed to ensure public security and safety for tourists, athletes and
dignitaries during the event.
In addition to this, there are number of threats and issues associated with mega events
which have a significant impact on perception of people. Safety is a crucial aspect and also a
considerable factor for organisations organising mega events. The overall findings are measured
as Brazil carried safety equipment’s and security concerns during Rio Olympics to ensure safety
of people and other participants. The security head also ensured in a press conference that safety
of people coming to enjoy Rio and participants will be their first priority.
In addition to this, they also exposed strategies and arrangements including military
forces, staff members and number of officers assigned for the safety purpose. Management
amended all the security arrangements very closely and security forces also analysed all the
aspects to provide quality services. It is analysed that Brazil government ensures safety of people
to feel free to travel and see matches effectively. Finally, it was observed that safety
arrangements and management done by the government and Olympics ensured proper security of
people and participants. After ensuring all the safety standards and security measures, the
government finally announced to organise Rio Olympics in Brazil.
Recommendations
It can be said that the Brazil government and management team has made all the
arrangements regarding safety and security of people coming from outside the city and
participants during the mega events. In addition to this, number of risks and safety concerns are
associated with such events which affect image of nation as well as perception of people
negatively. Number of arrangements are made such as cameras, security forces, military forces,
surveillance and officers team to evaluate all the safety and security requirements to help people
find themselves secure during the event effectively.
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However, some additional strategies and security options were available to ensure better
safety from unwanted hazards and issues. In respect to this, security forces could be divided into
parts to provide more strengthen to security and other forces appointed for the safety measures
and management. Divided teams could be used in different areas of stadium such as to secure
people around the stadium, to make safety chain and special force near official members and
chief guests.
It can be said that mega events such as Olympics requires following some important
obligations for fans, visitors, teams, players and other members to ensure their safety and
security. Preparation is required for mega events that it takes time and also it should be flexible
enough to manage last minute changes as emerging hazards or risks have potential large impact
on event.
Apart from this, a strong security plan is important for both government and organisation
to evaluate all the factors and elements associated with mega events. One factor should be
considered as risk assessment plan must be pre-planned and is required before making strategies
and plans to reduce the impact of risk during such events. This will help to determine issues and
risks involved in mega events to consider them in risk management.
The management requires long term strategic planning and further arrangements for a
mega event such as Olympics to complete it successfully and effectively. Security concept is also
an important factor that it is one of the best solutions towards preventing issues and conflicts
during the championship. Olympics and other mega event requires effective planning and
management from government of hosting city or nation to ensure people that they are safe and
easily enjoy championship without any fear.
People knows that risk of terrorist attacks and violence is high in such events that safety
measurements must be strong enough to satisfy their safety and security during the event. In
addition to this, technological equipment’s and other security forces could be used at airport,
stations, buses and other areas around the stadium to identify facts which may affect the
championship negatively and effectively. This works as a risk assessment strategy for local
government to ensure there are no suspicious aspects near or around the stadium.
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