Experiments to investigate the level of 'comfortable' loads for people against crush barriers

Abstract An experimental investigation has been made to determine the loads which begin to cause discomfort to people pushed against crush barriers. The geometric form and position of the barrier rail were also investigated. Theoretical loads were predicted by a crowd model in order to compare the experimentally measured loads with those generated by a crowd between crush barriers spaced at the maximum allowable distance on a stepped terrace. A limited number of measurements of loads made at ‘live’ football matches were discussed in the light of these findings.