How to Choose the Right Temporary Fencing for Events of All Sizes

Planning an event involves countless decisions, and choosing the right temporary fencing is crucial for safety, security, and overall event success. Whether you’re organising a small community gathering or a large-scale festival, the appropriate temporary fencing solution can make a significant difference to the smooth operation of your event. The ideal temporary fencing should withstand weather conditions, prevent unauthorised access, eliminate trip hazards, and comply with Australian safety standards while being cost-effective and aesthetically appropriate for your event type.

Many event organisers underestimate the importance of quality temporary fencing until they experience problems with conventional solutions that topple in strong winds or create dangerous trip hazards. We’ve seen how proper event fencing not only helps by creating designated areas but also working to protect attendees and equipment, control crowd flow, and enhance the overall professional appearance of any event.

Quick Considerations

  • Select wind-resistant temporary fencing that exceeds Australian compliance standards to ensure safety and security regardless of weather conditions.
  • Consider both functional requirements and aesthetic impact when choosing temporary fencing for different event types and sizes.
  • Evaluate the full cost including delivery, installation and removal rather than base rental prices alone for accurate event budgeting.

Understanding Temporary Event Fencing

Temporary fencing serves as a critical component for event management, providing security, crowd control, and site delineation. Selecting the right fencing solution can significantly impact event safety, compliance, and overall attendee experience.

Types of Temporary Fencing

Mesh panel fencing represents the most common type used at Australian events, featuring galvanised steel frames with anti-climb mesh. These panels typically measure 2.4m wide by 2.1m high and interconnect to form a continuous barrier.

Heavy-duty wind-resistant fencing like Fortawall offers superior stability in challenging weather conditions, withstanding wind speeds up to 165km/h without toppling. This advanced solution eliminates trip hazards commonly associated with standard temporary fencing.

Crowd control barriers provide a more lightweight option for queue management and creating pathways at events. These are typically 1-1.2m high and feature horizontal rails.

Construction-grade hoarding may be required for longer-term events or those with specific privacy requirements. These solid panels offer enhanced security and visual screening.

Wire fencing solutions, including chain mesh with barbed wire options, suit larger outdoor venues requiring additional security measures.

Key Components and Accessories

Base supports form the foundation of any temporary fencing system. Standard concrete blocks present trip hazards, while Fortawall’s innovative flat bases eliminate this safety concern.

Braces and stabilisers are essential for wind resistance, with quality systems incorporating multiple connection points. We recommend using one brace per three panels in normal conditions, increasing to one per panel in high-wind areas.

Gates and access points require careful planning, with options ranging from standard swing gates to vehicle access points with wheel-friendly bases.

Handrails and safety additions can be integrated for compliance with accessibility requirements. These components enhance usability while maintaining security integrity.

Privacy screens and shade cloth attachments offer additional functionality, providing weather protection and visual barriers when needed.

Regulatory Requirements and Australian Standards

All temporary fencing at Australian events must comply with key standards including AS4687.1:2022 for Temporary Fencing and Hoardings. This covers structural integrity, stability requirements, and safety features.

Wind loading considerations fall under AS1170.2 Structural Design Actions: Wind Actions. Fortawall exceeds these requirements with certified wind resistance to 165km/h, offering peace of mind for event organisers regardless of conditions.

Local council regulations may impose additional requirements specific to your event location. We recommend consulting with authorities during early planning stages to ensure full compliance.

Work Health and Safety obligations make organisers responsible for selecting appropriate barriers that minimise risks. This includes eliminating trip hazards and ensuring fencing remains secure throughout the event.

Insurance providers often specify minimum fencing requirements for event coverage. Documenting your compliant fencing solution can simplify claims processes if incidents occur.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Temporary Fencing

Selecting the right temporary fencing for your event involves careful evaluation of several key elements to ensure safety, functionality and visual appeal. The decision requires balancing practical needs with regulatory requirements while maintaining site accessibility.

Event Size and Site Conditions

The scope of your event directly impacts your fencing requirements. Small gatherings might need minimal barriers, while large festivals demand extensive perimeter protection that can withstand crowds.

Site conditions play a crucial role in determining a suitable temporary fencing solution. Uneven terrain, soft ground or exposure to high winds can compromise standard temporary fencing. In Australia’s varied climate, wind resistance is particularly important.

We recommend assessing whether your site is exposed to wind tunnels between buildings or coastal breezes that could exceed 60km/h. Standard temporary fencing often fails in these conditions, creating dangerous projectiles and security breaches.

Soil type and surface conditions affect stability too. Hard surfaces like concrete require different anchoring methods than grass or sand. Professional-grade options like Fortawall remain stable even in challenging conditions, with wind resistance up to 165km/h.

Safety, Security, and Compliance

Safety should be your primary concern when selecting temporary fencing. Quality barriers prevent unauthorised access while protecting the public from potential hazards within your event space.

Trip hazards from temporary fencing bases are a common safety issue that can lead to injuries and liability problems. Look for systems with flush-to-ground bases that eliminate this risk entirely.

Security requirements vary based on your event type. Consider these essential questions:

  • Will alcohol be served, requiring robust crowd control?
  • Are there valuable assets needing protection?
  • Do you need full visual barriers or just boundary delineation?

Compliance with Australian Standards is non-negotiable. Your fencing must meet AS4687.1:2022 for temporary fencing and AS1170.2 for wind resistance. These standards ensure your barriers can withstand environmental challenges and maintain structural integrity.

Warning signs and shade cloth can enhance safety by providing clear directions and reducing hazardous glare or wind-blown debris. However, these additions increase wind load, requiring sturdier fencing systems.

Accessibility and Removal

Temporary fencing should control access without creating bottlenecks or impeding emergency exits. Strategically placed entry and exit points prevent congestion while maintaining security.

Gate options vary widely from simple swing gates to sophisticated access-controlled entries with turnstiles. The choice depends on your crowd management needs and security requirements.

Consider how your fencing affects mobility-impaired visitors. Pathways should remain accessible with adequate width for wheelchairs and prams. Gates should be easy to operate or staffed appropriately.

Installation and removal timeframes affect your overall event logistics. Some systems require specialised equipment and skilled labour, while others offer simpler setup. We find that quick-deploy systems like Fortawall significantly reduce labour costs for short-duration events.

Duration of use matters too. For multi-day events, you need fencing that remains secure overnight without additional staffing or daily adjustments that drive up operational costs.

Customisation and Branding Options

Temporary fencing offers excellent branding opportunities that transform functional barriers into marketing assets. Mesh screening with logos and event information enhances visitor experience while reinforcing your brand.

Custom colours can align fencing with your event theme or corporate identity. High-quality printed scrim creates professional-looking boundaries that complement rather than detract from your event aesthetics.

Sponsored messaging on fence panels can generate additional revenue streams. Many organisers offset fencing costs entirely through strategic partnerships displayed on their perimeter barriers.

Consider visibility requirements when selecting customisation options. Mesh density affects both wind load and visual transparency. Tighter mesh offers more privacy and better print quality but increases wind resistance.

Digital printing technologies now enable photographic-quality images on fence scrim, creating immersive environment extensions rather than obvious barriers. This transforms your perimeter into an attraction rather than just a boundary.

Comparing Quality, Durability, and Cost

When selecting temporary fencing for your event, finding the right balance between quality, durability and cost is crucial for ensuring both safety and value for money. Quality fencing solutions provide peace of mind while delivering superior performance in various weather conditions.

Assessing Durability and Weather Resistance

Australian events face unique weather challenges, from scorching summer heat to unexpected coastal winds. Standard temporary fencing often fails in moderate winds, creating safety hazards and liability issues. Wind resistance should be a top priority when assessing durability.

Fortawall temporary fencing stands out with its exceptional 165km/h wind resistance capability, eliminating the common problem of fences toppling over during events. This durability comes from:

  • Superior materials – heavy-duty components that withstand harsh Australian conditions
  • Engineering design – specifically created to maintain stability in high winds
  • Compliant with AS1170.2 for structural wind actions

Our fencing undergoes rigorous testing in various weather conditions to ensure it maintains structural integrity throughout your event. This reduces the need for constant maintenance and readjustment, saving both time and money while providing reliable performance.

Evaluating Safety and Security Features

Safety features should never be compromised when selecting temporary fencing. Standard options often create trip hazards with protruding feet and unstable connections that can cause injuries and liability concerns.

When evaluating security features, look for:

✓ Trip hazard elimination
✓ Secure connection systems
✓ Visibility and transparency options
✓ Gate access control capabilities
✓ Compliance with Australian Standards

Fortawall’s innovative design removes all trip hazards while maintaining superior stability, ensuring the safety of attendees and workers alike. Our fencing complies with AS4687.1:2022 for temporary fencing and hoardings, guaranteeing that you’re meeting all safety requirements.

We’ve designed our panels with security in mind, featuring tamper-resistant connections and optional privacy screens when required. These features provide effective crowd control and site security without compromising on accessibility or visual appeal.

Budget Considerations for Temporary Fencing

While initial cost often drives purchasing decisions, the true cost-effectiveness of temporary fencing comes from its longevity and performance. Choosing solely based on the lowest price often leads to increased overall expenses.

Consider these financial factors:

Cost Consideration Budget Option Premium Solution (Fortawall)
Initial Investment Lower upfront cost Higher initial investment
Replacement Frequency More frequent Significantly longer lifespan
Staff Time More monitoring required Minimal maintenance needed
Insurance/Liability Potential higher premiums Reduced risk factors

The cost-effectiveness of quality fencing becomes apparent when you factor in the reduced need for repairs, replacements and staff time spent fixing fallen fencing. We manufacture our Fortawall fencing in Australia, ensuring quality control and supporting local industry.

By investing in durable Australian-made fencing solutions, you’ll avoid the false economy of cheaper imported options that require frequent replacement and pose ongoing safety risks.

Temporary Fencing Rental and Installation Process

Securing reliable temporary fencing involves understanding both the rental logistics and proper installation procedures. The right provider will offer comprehensive support throughout the entire process, from initial enquiry to final removal.

Rental Services and Support

When hiring temporary fencing for your event, look for providers offering all-inclusive packages. Most reputable companies like Fortawall provide free site assessments and quotations to determine your exact requirements.

We recommend selecting suppliers who maintain their own inventory rather than subcontracting, ensuring better quality control and availability. Ask about backup plans for unexpected circumstances — will they provide additional panels if needed urgently?

Contract terms should clearly outline pricing, delivery timeframes, and liability responsibilities. Many suppliers offer discounts for longer rental periods, which is worth considering for extended events.

Look for providers offering 24/7 emergency support throughout your rental period. This becomes especially crucial for multi-day festivals or construction sites where security can’t be compromised at any hour.

Professional Installation and Removal

Professional installation is non-negotiable for safety and liability reasons. Properly trained crews understand wind load requirements and appropriate anchoring techniques for various surface types.

Our Fortawall system withstands wind speeds up to 165km/h when correctly installed, far exceeding standard temporary fencing options. Installation teams should conduct soil assessments to determine the most suitable anchoring method for your site conditions.

The installation process typically includes:

  • Site preparation and marking
  • Panel placement with proper overlapping
  • Secure base fixture installation
  • Bracing for wind resistance
  • Final safety checks

Removal services should be equally professional, ensuring no damage to your venue. Most quality providers will conduct a post-removal inspection with you to verify the site has been returned to its original condition.

Timing is crucial — installations should be completed well before your event begins, and removal should be prompt but not rushed. Request specific timeframes in writing to avoid any surprises.

Secure Your Event with Confidence — Get in Touch Today

Choosing the right temporary fencing is vital to creating a safe, secure, and professional event environment. Whether you’re planning a local community gathering or a major festival, Fortawall offers premium, wind-resistant solutions that meet Australian Standards and deliver peace of mind. Contact our team today for a free site assessment and tailored quotation — and ensure your next event is protected by the best in the industry.