Approved Code of Practice for Tipi (Kåta) Safety ACOP & Erection Manual
draft 6 - Erection of Tipi structures - August 2025
Introduction
This Code of Practice provides guidance for the safe installation of tents, big tops, stretch tents, and tipis in the United Kingdom. It is intended for use by event organizers, hirers, installers, and all those responsible for the health and safety of temporary structures. This document is a best-practice guide and not a substitute for legal advice. All work must comply with relevant UK legislation, including the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.
Code of Practice for Tipi (Kåta) Erection and use
General Principles
Safety • Construction • Events
1.1 Competence: All personnel involved in the installation must be competent and appropriately trained for the specific type of structure they are working on. This includes an understanding of the manufacturer's instructions, risk assessments, and safe working practices.
1.2 Risk Assessment: A site-specific risk assessment must be completed before any work begins. This should identify potential hazards, such as ground conditions, overhead power lines, underground services, and weather conditions. The risk assessment should also consider the safety of the public and other site users.
1.3 Documentation: All relevant documentation must be available on site, including:
* A copy of this Code of Practice.
* The manufacturer's instructions for the structure.
* The site-specific risk assessment.
* A plan of the site, showing the location of the structure.
* Details of any temporary anchorage systems used.
2.0 Site Selection and Preparation
2.1 Site Suitability:
The chosen site must be suitable for the structure. The ground must be level and stable, and free of debris or obstructions. Consideration must be given to:
- Adequate space is available for the tipi footprint and surrounding safety zone.
- Underground services: A cable avoidance tool (CAT) or similar device should be used to locate any buried services before stakes or anchors are driven.
- Overhead services: The structure must not be installed directly under or near overhead power lines. A safe working distance must be maintained.
- Access: The site must have suitable access for vehicles and equipment.
- Drainage is sufficient to prevent water pooling.
- Area sealed from public and non-essential personnel/vehicles.
2.2 Ground Conditions: The ground must be capable of withstanding the loads imposed by the structure. If in doubt, a structural engineer should be consulted. If the ground is soft or unstable, alternative anchorage methods, such as water ballast or concrete blocks, must be used.
3.0 Installation
3.1 Supervision: The installation must be supervised by a competent person who has a thorough understanding of the manufacturer's instructions and the specific risks associated with the site.
3.2 Manual Handling: All manual handling operations must be risk-assessed and carried out in accordance with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992. Mechanical aids should be used wherever possible.
3.3 Working at Height: All work at height must be carried out in accordance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005. This includes the use of a suitable and safe working platform, such as a scaffold tower or a mobile elevating work platform (MEWP).
3.4 Anchorage: All structures must be adequately anchored to resist wind loads. The anchorage system must be designed to withstand the maximum expected wind speeds for the location. This may include:
* Stakes: Stakes must be of a suitable length and diameter for the ground conditions. They must be driven in at an angle to the ground.
* Ballast: Water ballast or concrete blocks must be of sufficient weight to provide the required resistance.
3.5 Erection: The structure must be erected in a safe and controlled manner, following the manufacturer's instructions. Care must be taken to ensure that all ropes, tensioning systems, and structural components are correctly installed and secured.
4.0 Inspection and Maintenance
4.1 Pre-Installation Inspection: All components of the structure must be inspected before installation to ensure they are in good condition and free from damage.
4.2 Post-Installation Inspection: The structure must be inspected after installation to ensure it has been erected correctly and all safety checks have been completed. This should include a check of all anchorages, guy ropes, and tensioning systems.
4.3 During Use: The structure should be regularly inspected during its use, particularly after periods of high wind or adverse weather.
5.0 Dismantling
5.1 Supervision: The dismantling of the structure must be supervised by a competent person.
5.2 Method Statement: A method statement for the dismantling of the structure should be prepared in advance. This should identify potential hazards and outline the safe sequence of work.
5.3 Working at Height: All work at height during dismantling must be carried out in accordance with the Work at Height Regulations 2005.
5.4 Manual Handling: All manual handling operations must be carried out in accordance with the Manual Handling Operations Regulations 1992.
6.0 Emergency Procedures
6.1 Emergency Plan: A site-specific emergency plan must be in place. This should include procedures for:
* Severe weather: An evacuation plan for the structure in the event of severe weather, such as high winds or lightning storms.
* Fire: A fire safety plan, including the location of fire extinguishers and emergency exits.
* First Aid: The location of first aid facilities and the names of trained first aiders..2 Evacuation: The structure must have clearly marked emergency exits, and an evacuation procedure should be communicated to all occupants.
7.0 Sustainability
7.1 Eco-Conscious Materials
Use FSC-certified timber, recycled metals, low-VOC finishes.
Prioritize environmentally responsible suppliers.
7.2 Waste Management
Segregate waste, dispose hazardous materials safely.
Minimize single-use plastics.
7.3 Energy Use
Use energy-efficient equipment.
Prefer solar-powered systems.
Monitor and report energy consumption.
8.0 Digital Tools
8.1 Documentation Platforms
Use cloud tools (Dropbox, OneDrive) for storing and sharing documents.
8.2 Inspection Apps
Use mobile apps (e.g. iAuditor) for real-time safety checks and reporting.
8.3 Alerts & Updates
Use platforms for weather alerts, site access logs, emergency notifications.
9.0 Case Studies
9.1 Incident Prevention
Example: 2023 festival avoided collapse via digital inspection tools.
9.2 Efficiency Gains
Example: 2024 modular build reduced setup time by 40% using digital planning.
10.0 Compliance & Accessibility
10.1 Hyperlinked Regulations
Work at Height Regulations 2005
Manual Handling Regulations 1992
CDM Regulations 2015
10.2 Plain Language Summary
Provide simplified version for volunteers and non-specialists.
Include key safety rules, emergency procedures, supervisor contacts.
11.0 Cultural Shift
11.1 Safety Ownership
Encourage personal responsibility.
Promote speaking up, toolbox talks, and improvement suggestions.
11.2 Feedback Mechanisms
Use anonymous channels (suggestion boxes, digital forms) for:
Near misses
Unsafe conditions
Ideas for improvement
12.0 Wind Management Plan
The compliance with these standards, guidelines and historical data all underpin the TentMasters commitment to providing a safe and well installed structure for their clients. However, once they have handed over the structure to the client, they become their partner in handling the potential for bad weather as they will no longer be on site. Here are simple guidelines and an action plan.
1.) Wind – It is current practice for the event industry to vacate a site when wind speeds reach 28 metres per second or 60 miles per hour. This means that neither the public, the tent crew, other contractors nor the clients are allowed to enter the structure unless to prevent harm to people. At lower wind speeds it is possible to stabilise the structure by providing additional bracing using tension ratchets and additional anchors. The client needs to be aware of the changing wind conditions and provide reasonable warning to us if emergency work is required. Things to look for include flapping canvas, loose tensioning ropes or straps and poles moving severely in the wind. In high winds, the sides of temporary structures must be completely open or completely shut, preferably the latter. The client should discuss with the TentMaster about the expertise of their crew to take this action. Wind monitoring devices such as an anemometer are cheap and easily sourced, and we encourage their use. Regular reference should be made by the client to weather forecasting services such as the Met Office or xcweather.co.uk to provide accurate current forecasts. If there is any obvious structural damage, we are to be informed immediately.
2.) Most structures are designed to be used with the walls completely on or completely off. If part of the structure is walled, there is a danger of creating a wind trap which can increase internal wind pressures to a dangerous level. If the client intends to use the structure in this manner, they should ensure that procedures are in place to re-instate the walls when bad weather threatens. Consult the structural engineering consultant.
3.) Ground Conditions – If ground and soil conditions change drastically from the time when our crew leave site, or if the area around ground anchors becomes waterlogged or very soft, we need to be informed. Frame tents and tension structures can sink into the ground when flooded, even lightly, and under severe water logging, soil becomes fluid, reducing the effectiveness of the structures anchors and temporary foundations.
Do not be afraid to discuss any of these points with the TentMaster. He will have a full Health and Safety Policy document available upon request and will always be willing to help to make your event as safe as is possible.
Disclaimer: This Code of Practice is for guidance only. It is not a substitute for professional advice or compliance with all relevant legislation and regulations. It is the responsibility of the installer and hirer to ensure the safety of the structure and all those who may be affected by it. E&OE
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Tipi (Kåta) Erection Manual & Safety ACOP
1. Site Preparation
- Ground is level, stable, and free of debris or obstructions.
- Adequate space is available for the tipi footprint and surrounding safety zone.
- Site is accessible for transport vehicles and emergency services.
- Underground utilities and overhead obstructions are identified and avoided.
- Drainage is sufficient to prevent water pooling.
- Area sealed from public and non-essential personnel/vehicles.
2. Structural Assembly
Inspection Protocol:
- Verify all components are present using the inventory checklist.
- Inspect wooden poles for cracks, splinters, rot, or insect damage.
- Check metal connectors and fasteners for rust, deformation, or missing parts.
- Ensure all bolts, nuts, and pins are compatible and undamaged.
- Confirm canvas sections are free from tears, mould, or excessive wear.
- Inspect lifting equipment (ropes, pulleys, winches) for fraying or mechanical faults.
- Verify that all safety gear (helmets, gloves, harnesses) is available and in good condition.
- Only after all components have passed inspection should the assembly proceed. Any damaged or questionable parts must be replaced or repaired before use.
Step-by-Step Procedure:
Inventory Check – Lay out all components and verify against the inventory checklist.
Central Pole Assembly – Assemble the central pole structure on the ground, ensuring all joints are secure.
Raising the Structure – Use lifting equipment to raise the central poles. Secure with temporary supports.
Radial Pole Installation – Attach radial poles to the central structure. Secure with bolts and safety pins.
Canvas Installation – Begin from the top, working downward. Ensure canvas is taut and properly aligned.
Final Fastening – Tighten all fastenings and ensure weatherproofing is complete.
Detailed erection
The Tipi Canvas as supplied by Nordic Canvas some details vary from manufacturer to manufacturer.
Central Pole
Tent Pegs
Fabric Pole Plate
Tipi Measuring tape.
- Start with your fabric pole plate which features two sides. One side has 16 lines of which 8 are dashed lines, while the other side features only 8 black lines. The main side is to be used with any Safir or Zirkon model while the side with only 8 lines is for use with the Onyx model.
- Use a peg to pin down the fabric pole plate where you want the centre of your Tipi to sit. If your unsure whether you will have enough space to pitch your tent in any given location you can simply use the measuring tape from this point – hook it over the peg in your centre point, find your Tipi size on the measuring tape, and walk in a full circle – if you can make the full circle with no obstructions then you’ve found a great pitch!
- Once your fabric pole plate is pegged down simply pull the measuring tape out to your required Tipi size as marked (please note some newer measuring tapes are only produced to the length of the Tipi they are supplied with).
- Using the solid lines for Tipis which are size 5, 7 or 9 and both the solid and dashed lines for size 15. Follow the circle round until you have 8 (or 16 for the larger size 15 Tipi) pinned at the correct point. The pegs should be inserted at a 45° angle to stop them from loosening.
- Unroll your Tipi and spread out with the chimney side up in the centre of your ‘peg circle’. Using the ground rings on your Tipi hook these on to the pegs you have placed in the ground.
- When the tent it connected to the ground pegs, the next step is to assemble your central pole. Once assembled you can feed the centre pole through the door and into the pole cap at the top of the tipi.
- When you’re inserting the pole into the top cap try to avoid getting it caught in any of the cords coming down from the top of the tent.
- Raise the Tipi by walking the pole upwards into the centre – don’t worry if at this point the tent seems very loose, all of the strength comes in the next step!
- Close the door and go to reach peg and tighten the ground straps to create tension for the Tipi. Try to ensure that you tension each ground strap equally to ensure an even tension on the tent. If at this point you notice the tent is squint or lopsided you can simply retension or slightly move any pegs to create the perfect pitch.
- Once the tent it pitched you can head inside and peg down the skirting, folding it inside the tent if you are using a floor and folding it outside if you are not using a floor.
- Finally you will peg the cords by the air intakes out to help these create a draw when in use.
- For most weather conditions the store cords mounted on the outside of the Tipi don’t need to be used. If you do need them in very windy weather then peg them using Y-Pegs as far away from the tent for maximum strength.
- If the door is hard to close once the tipi is full pitched then don’t force it as it might damage the zipper. Instead, release tension on the ground straps by the door and place the two adjacent pegs closer to each other.
3. Anchoring
Use ground stakes or ballast weights suited to soil conditions.
Verify tension on guy ropes and adjust for uniform stability.
Inspect anchor points for wear, movement, or corrosion.
Use redundancy in anchoring for high-wind zones.
4. Weather Considerations
Monitor weather forecasts before and during erection.
Suspend erection during high winds, lightning, or heavy rain.
Use additional anchoring in adverse conditions.
Inspect structure after storms for damage or loosening.
5. Fire Safety
Maintain clear exits and fire lanes.
Install fire extinguishers at designated points.
Use flame-retardant materials where applicable.
Prohibit open flames inside the tipi.
Conduct fire drills and train staff in fire response.
6. Operational Guidelines
Conduct daily inspections of structural integrity and anchoring.
Monitor weather and adjust setup as needed.
Limit occupancy to recommended capacity.
Provide clear signage for exits and safety instructions.
Train staff on emergency procedures and maintenance.
Appendix: Inspection Checklists
Pre-Erection Checklist
Site surveyed and approved
All components accounted for
Safety equipment available
Weather forecast checked
Emergency access planned
Staff briefed on procedures
During Erection Checklist
PPE worn by all personnel
Lifting equipment operated by trained staff
Structural connections verified during assembly
Anchors installed and tensioned appropriately
Temporary supports in place and stable
Communication maintained among team members
Area sealed from public and non-essential personnel/vehicles
Post-Erection Checklist
Final inspection completed
Fire safety equipment installed
Emergency access confirmed
Operational staff briefed
Weatherproofing verified
Documentation completed
Tipi Erection Inspection Checklist
Pre-Erection Checklist
Site surveyed and approved
All components accounted for using inventory checklist
Safety equipment available and inspected
Weather forecast checked and suitable
Emergency access planned and marked
Staff briefed on procedures and safety protocols
During Erection Checklist
PPE worn by all personnel
Lifting equipment operated by trained staff
Structural connections verified during assembly
Anchors installed and tensioned appropriately
Temporary supports in place and stable
Communication maintained among team members
Area sealed from public and non-essential personnel/vehicles
Post-Erection Checklist
Final inspection completed and signed off
Fire safety equipment installed and accessible
Emergency access confirmed and unobstructed
Operational staff briefed on structure use
Weatherproofing verified and secured
Documentation completed and filed
Notes:
Other Suggestions
1. The Tentmaster agrees to conduct his work practice in a professional manner, which ensures the safety of the public above all else.
2. He/she shall endeavour to provide an installation of the structure under their control, that provides a healthy and safe work environment for the erection crew, for the clients, and for co-workers.
3. The Tentmaster will ensure that the equipment in their control is in good working order and meets the designers and or manufactures published specifications.
4. The Tentmaster shall ensure that transportation equipment, loading methods and on-site materials handling is conducted in a right and proper manner.
5. The Tentmaster will ensure that laying out of materials on site is performed to a predetermined method and that marking out meets all designers and/or manufacturers published specifications.
6. The Tentmaster will make sure that they and their site crew treat the structure, the rigging and the anchoring equipment with respect and in a manner that prolongs the life of the equipment.
7. All TentMasters must be competent for the type of work they are undertaking and should have received appropriate training relevant to the type and complexity of structure they are working on. TentMasters must provide appropriate levels of supervision taking into account the complexity of the work and the levels of training and competence of the workers involved.
8. As a minimum requirement, every TentMaster team should contain a competent TentMaster who has received training for the type and complexity of the structure to be erected, altered or dismantled. Trainee operatives must always work under the supervision of a trained and competent TentMaster. Operatives are classed as 'trainees' until they have completed the approved training course (through ESITS) and assessment required to be deemed competent.
9. Erection, alteration and dismantling of all structures (basic or complex) should be done under the direct supervision of a competent TentMaster.
10. For complex structures this would usually be an experienced installer of this type of structure or an individual who has received training in a specific manner for the complexity of the configuration involved.
11. TentMasters should be up to date with the latest changes to safety guidance and good working practices within the Fabric Roofed Structure and TDS industries. Giving operatives job specific pre-start briefings and regular toolbox talks is a good way of keeping them informed.
12. The Guild of TentMasters Code of Practice helps to ensure tent technicians provide high quality installations and learning experiences for the people they work with. The Code does this by providing a set of quality statements concerning all aspects of learning.
13. By adopting the Code, practitioners demonstrate their commitment to quality work. By using the Code as a benchmark, employers and hirers of practitioners demonstrate their commitment to requiring high-quality practice of those who work for them.
14. These individual commitments underpin good practice across the TDS sector.
15. Be well prepared and organised. Be prepared:
16. To work effectively by having specialist knowledge and skills.
17. To negotiate with contractors and employers the aims, objectives and desired outcomes for the work and maintain communication for the duration of the project.
18. To understand the context of a programme or project to ensure the success of the activity for the participants.
19. To adopt the appropriate attitude, behaviour and dress code including PPE.
20. To manage my time effectively starting and finishing as planned and agreed.
21. To be aware of the support you may need and request help when necessary.
22. To keep up to date with all relevant paperwork, such as site planning, documents, hand-outs, evaluation forms, invoices and budgets.
23. To charge appropriately for your services.
24. To be safe and responsible.
25. To take reasonable steps to ensure the safety of everyone in your care.
26. To ensure that the activity is adequately insured.
27. To ensure risk assessments are carried out and manage risks accordingly.
28. To understand the contractor’s policies, routines and procedures e.g. equal opportunities / behaviour management / data protection.
29. To provide references for my work and a Criminal Records Bureau disclosure where necessary.
30. To have appropriate skills.
31. To ensure that the level of skills, knowledge and understanding are sufficient to undertake the work I am doing.
32. To have appropriate technical resources to be able to adapt and react to changing circumstances.
33. To work well with people
34. To value all participants and treat them with respect.
35. To be friendly, approachable and professional in your manner.
36. To evaluate and reflect on my work
37. To collect monitoring data for contractors and employers as required.
38. To collect feedback from contractors, employers and participants.
39. I reflect on my work and learn lessons for improved performance in the future.
40. To commit to professional development.
41. To improve and update your skills, knowledge and creativity through regular training, personal reflection and membership of professional bodies.
42. To maintain my professional portfolio and CV.
43. DOCUMENTATION
The Tentmaster should have full documentation for any structure which is their responsibility. This documentation should form an operations manual which must contain as a minimum:
43.1. Design documentation, marking out plans, and suitable scale drawings.
43.2. A design statement stating maximum site wind speeds in which the structure may be occupied.
43.3. Additional statements on any other loads or operating restrictions that may be encountered.
43.4. Full structural calculations showing typical wind loading under differing load cases, showing reaction loads from the loaded membrane to the supporting masts or framework and ground anchors. In addition, any load carrying capabilities, suspended or other wise must be covered.
43.5. Any other certificates, e.g. flame retardancy certificates, winch test certificates, cable tests, electrical equipment etc.
43.6. Typical method statement for erection and dismantling.
44. FLAME RETARDANCY CERTIFICATION
Flame retardancy certificates should be available for all materials used in the structure. All fabric materials used in structures must meet stringent requirements regarding flammability. Materials should meet as a minimum, local standards and preferably international standards. Suggested standards include:
44.1. Great Britain - British Standard BS 5438 Tests 2A and 2B with a ten second flame application in each case. Other standards include BS 7157. British Standard 6661 is applicable to air supported structures. All structures must meet the guidelines in government publications; Home office/The Scottish Office, Guide to Fire Precautions in Existing Places of Entertainment and Like Premises (ISBN 0-11-340907-9), The Health and Safety Commission; Guide to Health Safety and Welfare at Pop Concerts and other Similar Events (ISBN 0 11 341072 7).
44.2. Germany: DIN 4102 – B1
44.3. France: Classement : M2
44.4. United States: NFPA 701, California State Fire Marshall – T19
44.5. Italian CSC RF 1/75/A – PRIMA
45. SAFETY POLICY
45.1. The Tentmaster, (or more specifically the company he/she is working for), must have a clear safety policy, and issue copies to all crew. Also, ensure that fork lift licensing and first aid certificates are in place.
45.2. Protective clothing must be used where condition require it.
45.3. Access equipment must be provided for hazardous tasks.
45.4. Safety harnesses must be worn when climbing the structure.
46. SITING
46.1. Structures should be sited on only on known ground conditions. If installed on grass, checks must be made to ensure that installations are only made on cohesive soils, such as medium or hard clays. Acceptable ground bearing pressures are a minimum of 200 kN/m2. The Tentmaster should ensure that ground conditions are acceptable for the structures. Ground and weather conditions may change during the length of any installation, therefore inspection procedures should be in place to recognise this. The Tentmaster should ensure that there are no obstructions such as power lines.
46.2. The Tentmaster should ensure that the site provider has provided adequate access for the transport to be used and has ensured that the area where the structure is to be erected is free from underground obstructions for ground anchors and pressure bearing mast base plates.
This code of practice is subject to constant revue, and suggestions are welcomed to the guild address.