Security Guard Calculator
Find the recommended number of guards and stewards for your headcount, event type and risk level.
Recommended staffing
How many security guards do you need?
There is no single legal ratio, but a widely-used planning baseline is roughly one officer per 75–100 attendees for a low-risk event, scaled up for alcohol, ticketed or public events, late finishes and other risk factors, plus cover for each entrance. This tool turns those rules of thumb into a recommended number, split between SIA-licensed officers and stewards.
Once you have a figure, price it with the cost calculator, or read how many security guards do I need? for the full method.
Security Guard Calculator — FAQs
How many security guards do I need for an event?
A common low-risk planning baseline is one officer per 75–100 guests, increased for alcohol, ticketed entry, late finishes and higher-risk events, and adjusted for the number of entrances you need to staff. This calculator applies that logic to give a recommended figure.
Is the recommended number a legal requirement?
No single national ratio is set in law, but licensing conditions and your risk assessment can effectively require minimum numbers. Treat the result as a strong planning starting point and confirm against your licence and risk assessment.
What is the difference between guards and stewards in the result?
Stewards handle flow, welcome and car parks and do not need an SIA licence; SIA officers handle searching, conflict and licensed-premises duties. The calculator splits the recommendation so you only pay for licensed cover where it is needed.
Ready to secure your event?
Tell us about your event and we’ll send a clear, all-inclusive quote — usually within a few hours.