U2 under fire about safety issues

Safety watchdogs claim U2's forthcoming American tour could be dangerous for thousands of fans.

They are upset at the band's decision to allow standing room only and unreserved seating for the Elevation Tour starting in Florida on March 24.

Crowd Management Strategies says putting an unseated crowd in front of the stage at any of the group's 33 arena shows could result in a tragedy similar to Roskilde.

Nine fans died in a crush during Pearl Jam's set at the Danish festival last year.

He added that unreserved seating could also lead to a stampede by fans who are eager to get a good spot in the front few rows.

The company published a report into the total of 70 deaths which occurred at music concerts during 1999.

It also spearheaded the investigation into the 1979 crowd stampede at a Cincinnati concert by The Who, which resulted in 11 deaths.

U2 have issued a statement with the tour promoters SFX Music Group saying: "We apply with diligence the highest standard of responsibility and safety for the fans.

"We adhere properly to all local regulations. What we are doing here is about creating the right type of show environment that everybody is looking for on this tour.

"It's about being able to move around and dance if you want to."

U2 release their new single Stuck In A Moment You Can't Get Out Of on January 29.