Arnie,

I've not read all the contributions in this thread but in answer to your original question you might like to get yourself a copy of a book called:

'The Event Safety Guide'

A guide to health, safety and welfare at music and similar events.

Published by the HSE as HSG195

Don't worry it is readable, i.e. it's not full of legal type language although it does explain the laws and rules.

checkout www.hsebooks.co.uk