Live Broadcast Policy

Purpose

This policy sets out the standards and procedures for live broadcasting on Towerblock Radio CIC, ensuring technical quality, editorial compliance and safety.

Scope

This policy applies to all live broadcasts, including DJ sets, talk shows, interviews, outside broadcasts and livestreamed events.

Definitions

• Live broadcast means content broadcast in real-time without pre-recording or editing.
• Delay system means a technical system that creates a time delay between recording and broadcast to allow intervention if needed.
• Outside broadcast means a live broadcast from a location other than the studio.

Responsibilities

The board approves the live broadcast policy. The Programming Lead manages the broadcast schedule. The Operations Lead ensures technical readiness. DJs and presenters follow the procedures.

Policy Statement

Towerblock Radio CIC ensures that all live broadcasts meet technical, editorial and safety standards, protecting listeners, contributors and the organisation.

Detailed Procedures

Pre-broadcast checks

Before going live:

• Confirm the DJ or presenter is present and ready.
• Test audio levels and quality.
• Check the broadcast schedule and show details.
• Confirm any guests are briefed on editorial standards.
• Verify that the broadcast system and streaming infrastructure are operational.

Technical standards

• Audio levels should be consistent and within acceptable ranges.
• Audio quality should be clear and free of interference.
• Backup systems (backup equipment, backup stream) should be available.
• The streaming infrastructure should be monitored during broadcast.

Editorial compliance during live broadcast

• Presenters must follow the Editorial Standards Policy.
• Presenters must not broadcast content that incites violence, hatred or discrimination.
• Presenters must not broadcast content that could harm children or vulnerable people.
• If a presenter breaches standards during a live broadcast, the Programming Lead or technical operator may take appropriate action, including cutting the broadcast.

Handling incidents

If an incident occurs during a live broadcast:

• The technical operator should assess the situation.
• If necessary, switch to pre-recorded content or a backup stream.
• Record the incident for review.
• Report the incident to the Programming Lead within 24 hours.
• Conduct a post-incident review.

Outside broadcasts

• Risk assess the location before the broadcast.
• Ensure reliable internet or connectivity.
• Confirm power arrangements.
• Have backup equipment.
• Brief all participants.

Guests

• Guests must be briefed on editorial standards before going live.
• Guests must not use the platform to promote hatred, violence or illegal activity.
• The presenter or technical operator may end a guest's contribution if they breach standards.

Reporting Process

Any incident during a live broadcast must be reported to the Programming Lead within 24 hours. Serious incidents must be reported to the board.

Compliance Requirements

• Ofcom Broadcasting Code (where applicable).
• Communications Act 2003.
• Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988.
• Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974.

Monitoring

The Programming Lead monitors live broadcast quality and incidents. The board reviews broadcast activity annually.

Review Cycle

This policy shall be reviewed annually.

Version Number

Version 1.0

Approval Section

Approved by: Towerblock Radio CIC Board Date: July 2026 Next review: July 2027

Related Policies

• Editorial Standards Policy
• Code of Conduct for DJs
• Presenter Agreement
• Copyright Compliance Policy
• Business Continuity Plan

Website URL slug

/policies/live-broadcast-policy

Meta Title

Live Broadcast Policy | Towerblock Radio

Meta Description

Towerblock Radio CIC's live broadcast policy covering pre-broadcast checks, technical standards, editorial compliance, incident handling and outside broadcasts.

Suggested menu category

Broadcasting

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live broadcast, streaming, editorial compliance, outside broadcast, technical standards, incident response