Stand Build Regulations
Content
- Electics & Service Supply
- Emergency Exits & Direction of Escape
- Enclosed Stands / Walling in Open Sides
- Fire & Safety Regulations
- Floor Loading Restrictions
- Flooring
- Hazardous Substances
- Hot Works / Permits
- Kitchens
- Maintenance
- Meeting Rooms
- Organisers Rights to Change Stands and Floorplan Layout
- Pillars
Stand Build Regulations
Below you will find stand build regulations which must be applied to your space only stand design. We have highlighted various general regulations which you may find helpful when designing your stand however please note that this is not a definitive list of regulations. It is the responsibility of the exhibitor and their contractor to ensure their stand design complies with all applicable stand build regulations detailed in the venue technical regulations.
Failure to comply with the regulations laid out below may lead to your permission to build being revoked and changes to the stand build being undertaken onsite or complete removal of the stand.
The venue technical regulations can be downloaded here.
Accessibility
It is the exhibitors responsibility to remove all barriers to service and make their stand accessible to wheelchair users. Where exhibitors have a platform on a stand a reasonable adjustment is to incorporate a ramp into the platform within the stand area. Whatever the content of the stand it needs to be accessible to all. Please note the following when designing your stand:
- Stands that are 20sqm or over with platforms that exceed 5cm should incorporate a ramp into their stand design. The access ramp must not exceed the limits of the stand area.
- Stands less than 20sqm with a platform that exceeds 5cm should also provide access to the stand via a ramp, however it is permitted for these stands to use a portable ramp if there is not sufficient space to incorporate within the limits of the stand area.
- In accordance with DB-SUA 1, the ramps will have a maximum slope of 10% when their length is less than 3m, 8% when their length is less than 6m and 6% in all other cases.
- If a stand is a double-decker, then it is probably not practical to offer lifts. Therefore please ensure that any services can be brought downstairs for those that need it
- Serving counters should have a low access point no higher than 760mm or a lap tray should be provided for the convenience of disabled people
Build Height Limits
In certain parts of the venue there are additional build height restrictions. It is the exhibitor's responsibility to check if their stand is affected. Please contact the Operations Team for a detailed stand plot of your location.
The overall height of standfitting for single-storey stands including cladding of columns is 4m from the floor level. Requests to exceed this height will only be considered provided that they are submitted to us in writing and accompanied by full technical drawings and structural calculations. Any construction over 4m is classified as a complex stand and charges will be made for structural approval. The maximum build height is still 6m from the venue floor. However there are some stands where the maximum build height is 5m. This includes stands under the walkway in aisles S & T. Please contact the Operations team to check if your stand is affected.
We would also like to remind you of the following:
- The maximum build height for dividing back walls is 4m from the venue floor
- Any stand build which is higher than the dividing walling i.e. within your stand space must adhere to the following:
- Structures with no branding facing the dividing wall must be stepped in at least 0.5m from the dividing wall.
- Structure with branding facing the dividing wall must be stepped in at least 1m from the dividing wall.
Please be aware that we have a limited build up and breakdown tenancy, all space only stands must be dismantled and removed by 1200hrs on Saturday 1 April 2023 including waste. Only submit plans for stands that are over 4m with a thorough method statement if you believe this can be achieved in the time frame available.
Ceilings on Stands
Good ventilation is important and therefore we still recommend that you consider not having any solid ceilings on your stand.
Exhibitors may cover their stands with a ceiling, provided that they observe the technical directives on fire protection and the safety regulations referred to in sections 1.4 and 5.9 of the venue technical regulations. It is recommended that ceilings are permeable so that the general temperature control of the hall reaches the space of the stand.
Chipboard
Please note that chipboard, particleboard and low-density fibreboard (LDF) is not suitable for construction and in particular of weight bearing structures. The H&S Manager and Structural Engineer will identify stands which do not comply during the build process and all necessary remedial work must be completed before the stand will be permitted to open.
Complex Structures
A complex structure is any form of construction of any height, which would normally be designed by an engineer and/or has, through a risk assessment, been found to provide significant risk. The following are classed as complex structure.
- Structures over 4 meters high. These structures are considered bespoke in totem-type constructions, self-standing partitions or any structure that is not supported by a minimum of three perpendicular faces/sides throughout its height.
- Stands or structures with a height greater than 5 meters. These must be supported on at least 3 perpendicular faces/sides.
- Platforms or stages with access and a height equal to or higher than 0.50 m.
- Custom built suspended structures made of non-modular materials e.g. wooden structures and exhibits. Any suspended item with wood is classed as complex
- Any structure, regardless of its height, which requires structural calculations.
- Anything deemed by the organiser to be a complex structure.
All complex structures, must submit additional documentation to Ops Squad Stand Plan Team along with all other stand plan submission documents.
Documentation
Complex structures must provide the following documentation:
- Project designed, signed and endorsed by a certified technician (an authorization statement will be accepted instead of the endorsement).
The project must include:
- Risk Assessment: Assessment of risks and preventative measures to consider during the construction build up and break down process.
- Method Statment: A descriptive and explanatory report of compliance with the current regulations.
- Structural Calculations: Structural study of stability and resistance that considers:
- Use overload according to table 3.1 CTE DB SE, use category type C1,C2, C3 (see table below)
- Internal wind pressure of 0.125kN/m2 up to a height of 4m, higher than 4m the internal wind pressure will be considered at 0.063 kN/m2.
- Description of the loads on the floor under each support.
- Technical Drawings: A floorplan and elevation drawings, including details of the handrails and stairs.
- The evacuation and fire detection plan for structures with a surface larger than 100 m².
Late submission of complex stand details or the failure to supply sufficient detail, including structural calculations will result in permission to build not being granted.
Overloading of use for structure calculation:
Compressed Gas
Use of compressed gases such as LPG (Liquid Pretroleum Gases – propane, Butane etc.) will only be permitted where essential and by exception and these must be registered as a special risk. A certificate of installation by a Gas Safe Register fitter is required for LPG installations.
If you require the use of compressed air or gasses, contact the Operations Team at least 6 weeks prior to the show.
COVID-19 H&S Documentation
Every stand exhibitor and their contractors must ensure that they have identified any risks with working onsite and what control measures they will put in place to protect both their workers and others from coronavirus e.g. cleaning & hygiene, staff procedures etc. These measures should be clearly displayed in your H&S Documentation. Every exhibitor is responsible for making sensible adjustments to their space and onsite activities to ensure we maintain a safe environment across the show for everyone who is onsite during build, show open and breakdown.
H&S Documentation should demonstrate that the following have been considered, and appropriate safety measures have been implemented and communicated;
- Cleaning & hygiene
- Staff procedures and welfare
Demonstrations
Demonstrations on stands during the event must be safe and without risks to health and safety and where necessary covered by a risk assessment. As a result of COVID-19 demonstrations to groups are prohibited this year.
Please click here for for further information.
Dividing Walls
On divided sites, you are responsible for erecting and decorating dividing walls facing onto your stand area to a minimum height of 2.5m. Walls above 2.5m must be clad and finished on both sides, with the reverse side being decorated from 2.5m upwards by the Exhibitor who has erected them. Such walls overlooking adjoining stands must be finished in a neutral plain colour only. The minimum height for dividing walls is 2.5m.
The maximum height for dividing walls of single-storey stands is 4m from the venue floor (not from top of any platforms).
Any stand build which is higher than the dividing walling i.e. within your stand space must adhere to the following:
- Structures with no branding facing the dividing wall must be stepped in at least 0.5m from the dividing wall.
- Structure with branding facing the dividing wall must be stepped in at least 1m from the dividing wall.
Doors - Vision Panels
Where doors are present on your stand they must follow the below guidance;
- The required minimum effective clear width of a door is 800mm.
- Doors must have a vision panel with a zone of visibility spanning from 500mm to 1500mm above the floor. The exception to this is doors to small storerooms, where a small panel may suffice.
- Emergency exit doors must open outwards in the direction of escape.
- Doors must be recessed where they open on to public circulation areas, e.g. they must not open directly on to a gangway.
- Sliding doors are not acceptable as emergency exit doors.
Double Deck Stands
Double deck stands are not permitted at in-cosmetics and raised areas 500mm high and above are not recommended.
Dust
There is zero tolerance on dust-creating activities in the halls to avoid additional hazards from coughing and reducing cleaning requirements. All dust must be extracted at source by mechanical means. MDF and chipboard must not be machined on site, as the dust produced is hazardous to health.
Early / Late Working
If you have appointed a stand contractor to build your open space stand, you must be assured that the design of the stand is such that it can be built within the specified times as stated in this manual. Early or late working outside of the published build up and breakdown timetable will not be permitted.
Electrical Installations & Testing
Please click here for further detailed and important information on the management of electrics at Fira Barcelona.
All electrical installations will be carried out in accordance with low-voltage electrical engineering regulations and associated directives. Installation must be carried out by an electrician approved by the Department of Industrial Services of the Generalitat de Catalunya, with the completion of the pertinent installation report. Mains connection shall be carried out by operatives of the Official FIRA Service, after payment of outstanding invoices for the installation permit issued by the Industrial Services of the Generalitat. Access to the connection boxes by any person not employed by the Official Services of the Fira de Barcelona is prohibited.
All electrical energy supplied to the stand shall be provided by Fira Barcelona, the characteristics thereof being 400 V between phases and 230 V between phases and neutral.
A direct current supply or a supply in any other condition of stability and continuity which differs from the general supply and does not belong to Fira Barcelona will be charged to the stand exhibitor and requires the prior authorization of Fira Barcelona.
The official electrical contractor may limit the supply power when it may have a negative effect on other users or through the risk of overload or the safety of its own lines and installations.
All installations must be carried out in accordance with the requirements required by the Low-Voltage Electrotechnical Regulations (LVER) and the supplementary technical instructions thereof by an electrician officially authorized by the Industry Department of the Generalitat of Catalonia, in compliance with the corresponding electrical installation report (official certificate).
The power supply in the halls shall be exclusively activated by the Fira Barcelona personnel, and it shall be provided once the electrical installations of the stand have been approved and authorized by the corresponding Industry Service present in the Fira Barcelona Customer Service Office.
During build-up initial connections are made as early as possible, but in some cases this could mean on the opening morning if the stand (or block of stands) is not complete. The power to all stands will be switched off 30 minutes after the close of the show each day. Please also remember to order a 24-hour supply for the open period if required.
You or your contractors are advised to contact the official contractor to arrange a temporary power supply for actual construction of your stand if required. Power must not be taken from cleaners' sockets or other hall sockets.
When you order you will need to specify using a grid the correct positioning for lights and sockets - should the grid not be submitted, the items will be positioned at the discretion of the contractor and charges maybe be levied for on-site charges.
As the exhibitor, it is your responsibility to order adequate power supply for your stand. Failure to do this will result in delays on site and could be a fire risk. On site checks will be carried out by the appointed Health & Safety Officer, as well as the official contractor. In all cases the decision of the Organiser and its appointed representative is final.
There should be sufficient correctly installed and rated power sockets to preclude the use of extension leads and long trailing flexes. If essential, extension leads must be correctly fused and limited to one per socket. Multi-sockets must not be used.
Electrics & Mains Water Supply
Please click here for further detailed and important information on the management of electrics at Fira Barcelona.
It is not possible for all stands to have a mains water supply. It is the responsibility of the stand contractor and/or exhibitor to check with the Operations team if this is possible. We recommend that you do this prior to designing your stand to avoid any issues.
Emergency Exits & Direction of Escape
The gangways used in this venue are the minimum permissible by law. Under no circumstances will exhibits, stand dressings, tables & chairs etc. be allowed to encroach into gangways. Please keep your exhibits inside your stands at all times.
Doors and gates forming part of an escape shall be provided with a vision panel of clear glazing at sight level and must be hung to open in the direction of escape, clear of any steps, landings or gangways. Where necessary doors must be recessed so as not to open onto or obstruct the required width of any gangway or other escape route. Such doors shall be free from fastenings other than panic bolts in accordance with BS EN 1125.
Bridging and carpeting over gangways are not permitted.
Enclosed Stands / Walling in Open Sides
Long runs of walling along open perimeters of stands are not permitted. Just 50% of any open side is permitted to be a solid wall. Where long runs of walling are present along open sides they must be relieved by display items and not left plain.
Stands wanting to wall more than 50% of an open side must request permission from the Organiser first. Any walling exceeding 50% of any open side should be set back 500mm from the open perimeter of the site. This is an industry wide regulation to ensure all of our exhibitors are given equal opportunity for footfall and visibility.
Exceptions to this regulations may be made for exhibition stands on the perimter of the hall. Please contact the Operations Team for information.
Fire & Safety Regulations
The materials used for stand construction must comply with the current regulations. In particular, and with regard to the fire resistance of the material, they must comply with the provisions of the Spanish Technical Building Code (TBC).
- Table 4.1 of BD-FS 1. Reaction of surfaces to fire.
- On ceilings and walls: C-s2 and d0.
- Hanging textile elements: Class 1 in accordance with the UNE-EN 13773:2003 standard.
All decorative elements must comply with the same characteristics as the construction elements. They may not incorporate any type of inflammable material, for example straw, wood shavings, paper shavings, dry leaves, etc.
Th Organiser, H&S team and Fira Barcelona reserves the right to request the certificates corresponding to the materials used in the stands or for their decoration.
Combustible waste must be safely disposed of and boxes and packaging must not be stored on the stand.
For detailed information on the requirements of smoke detectors and fire extinguishers, please see the venue technical regulations.
Floor Loading Restrictions
Maximum floor loading is 5,000kg per square metre. If you are exhibiting any items over this weight, please inform the Operations Team as soon as possible to see if it's possible.
Flooring
Open space sites are not carpeted - exhibitors must provide their own floor covering.
Exhibitors with adjoining blocks of stands will not be permitted to place their own carpet in the gangways unless prior permission is given in writing by the organisers.
Nothing may be structurally attached to the floor of the Exhibition premises.
Carpet may only be fixed to the venue floor with approved carpet tape. All carpet tape must be removed and any charges for the removal of carpet tape left on the floor at the end of breakdown will be passed direct to exhibitors.
Hazardous Substances
If you a hazardous substance on your stand please confirm the details in writing to the Organisers so that written approval can be given.
Hazardous substances are not be brought into the halls unless essential. The use of hazardous substances must be subject to a COSHH assessment. Exhibitors must declare the use or display of hazardous substances as a special risk.
Hot Works / Permits
A hot work permit must be obtained from the organisers office prior to any work being carried out. The issue of the permit is subject to the advance submission of a suitable and sufficient risk assessment and method statement for the activity, with evidence of competency for the use of any specialist equipment.
Kitchens
At this time exhibitors should only provide packaged food. This is available from the official catering provider and can be delivered to stands. As a result cooking on stands and food preparation is not required and therefore kitchens are not permitted.
See the Exhibitor Catering section for full information on what is permitted this year.
Maintenance
See the Badges & Passes section for full information on what is permitted this year.
Meeting Rooms
Whilst enclosed meeting rooms are permitted we still recommend that you consider creating open spaces instead to help increase ventilation.
Organisers Rights to Change Stand and Floorplan Layout
In the interests of the Exhibition as a whole, it may be necessary to remove or alter anything in - or forming part of - any stand. If we feel this action must be taken this would have to be at the expense of the Exhibitor concerned.
The exhibition floorplan is subject to change at the discretion of the organisers. Please contact the organisers to obtain the latest version of the exhibition floorplan.
Pillars
Some stands have venue pillars either on the stand or directly in front. It is the responsibility of the exhibitor and contractor to contact the Operations team to check if their stand is impacted and request a stand plot to show the exact location and dimensions of the pillar.
Some of these pillars have fire points which are not permitted to be covered. If you have a pillar in front of your stand please note that you are not permitted to clad or attach any items to this. There are strict regulations on covering these pillars so it is important that you check with the in-cosmetics Operations team to see if your stand is affected before you start designing your stand.
Pop-Up Stands
Pop-up stands may not be used to form dividing walls on space only sites. If you are considering a Pop-up stand display, a Shell Scheme Stand must be purchased or dividing walls constructed. For further information, please contact the Sales Team.
Raised Platforms
The height of any stand platform must not be greater than 18cm from the hall floor.
Please click here for detailed information on the Service Chests.
We strongly recommend that all space only stands have a platform. The services at Fira are not on continuous ducts and the service duct on any stand may service more than one stand. If you have a service chest on your stand then additional cables for a neighbouring stand might be pulled from this service chest. We therefore recommend that you plan for a platform at least 100mm high to allow the cables to pass easily under your stand. The venue say the platform should be at least 50mm but due to the thickness of the electrical mains cables we recommend 100mm. An access hatch must be incorporated into the platform floor to allow easy access to the service chest at all times. It is the exhibitor or stand contractors responsibility to contact the Operations Team to determine the impact on their stand.
We do not recommend that you have a platform 500mm or over in height. If you must then the following venue regulations apply: All stands with a floor, structure, staircase or surface where or under which people stand that are over 50cm high must present a construction certificate ("Certificado de Asume") signed by the competent engineer.
CONSTRUCTIONS OF STANDS WITH A PLATFORM/FLOOR
All stands with a floor, structure, staircase or surface where or under which people stand that are over 50cm high must present a construction certificate ("Certificado de Asume") signed by the competent engineer.
This certificate of construction can only be handed out by an architect or engineer, who is a member of the Architectural Association Barcelona (Colegio de Arquitectos de Barcelona), or can be requested with costs at the Fira. The following documents are requested by the Fira for the certificate of construction:
- List of the used building materials giving indication of their characteristics
- Scaled construction drawings including masses and relative elevations
- Static computation of the construction
Ramps
All Space Only stands with a platform greater than 5cm must include ramp access in order to comply with current accessibility and safety regulations. Access ramps must follow the below regulations;
- Stands that are 20sqm or over with platforms that exceed 5cm should incorporate a ramp into their stand design. The access rampmust not exceed the limits of the stand area.
- Stands less than 20sqm with a platform that exceeds 5cm should also provide access to the stand via a ramp, however it is permitted for these stands to use a portable ramp if there is not sufficient space to incorporate within the limits of the stand area.
- Level landings shall be provided at the top and bottom of ramps and any intermediate position where exit doors open on to them.
- The minimum width of the ramp should be 1m.
- In accordance with DB-SUA 1, the ramps will have a maximum slope of 10% when their length is less than 3m, 8% when their length is less than 6m and 6% in all other cases.
Rigging
There are strict venue regulations in place which include that all suspended materials must be securely attached at a European Union-approved structure. This also includes any structures that are also floor supported. Click here for venue regulations
There are also areas of the show where rigging is not permitted. This includes on stands under the walkway in aisles S & T. Please contact the Operations team to check if your stand is affected.
Clad lighting Rig/Ceilings Structures and any other fitting: These must be shown on plan and weight loading and dimensional drawing submitted to ServiFira for quote. Full dimensional drawings of both the exterior and interior structure must be submitted as part of the stand plan process. Should an engineer's approval be required, we will advise you of this and any charges that may be incurred.
Complex Rigging Custom-built/bespoke structures/Suspended Structures.
- Custom-built/bespoke structures include items that have been constructed from non-modular materials, e.g. wooden structures and exhibits.
- Such items are classed as ‘complex' and the complex structure procedure set out in the Stand Plans section must be followed, in order for them to be rigged.
- Bolts must be used on all joints and connections. Screws are not acceptable for joining members together.
Additional documentation must be submitted to ServiFira and Ops Squad and as part of your stand plan submission;
- Structural drawings of both the exterior and interior structure and structural calculations.
- A technical description of the design materials.
- Justification of weight calculations of the points.
- Quality certificates of the materials.
- Justification of the revision of motors, hoists or any other machinery.
- A description of the build up/break down procedures to prevent damage to the hall structure or anything which may present a risk to the installations or personnel.
Should an engineer's approval be required, we will advise you of this and any charges that may be incurred will be the responsibility of the exhibitor.
For those where rigging is permitted we would also like to remind you on the following:
Rigging is permitted at in-cosmetics global to the maximum height of 6m from the venue floor to the top of the rigged structure/banner/truss etc. However, please note the following:
- Height restrictions may apply on some stands.
- Before you plan for any rigged structures please discuss your requirements with Servifira Exhibitor Services to check on any restrictions and view a copy of the rigging regulations.
- If any rigged structures are higher than your dividing back walls the following must be adhered to
- Structures with no branding facing the dividing wall must be stepped in at least 0.5m from the dividing wall.
- Structure with branding facing the dividing wall must be stepped in at least 1m from the dividing wall.
- It is the stand contractor’s and/or exhibitor’s responsibility to check if there are any rigging restrictions before designing the stand.
- The maximum load of a rigging point is 1.50 kN (150 kg), including the weight of the hoist itself (engines, block-and-tackle, etc.)
- The maximum permitted suspended weight of rigging elements is 15 kg/m2, calculated as a proportion of the total suspended elements and the contracted floor area of the booth.
- Anchor points must be at least 1 metre apart.
- No truss grid may have more than 10 manual hoists (block-and-tackle/pulleys).
- Any fabric ceilings must be fireproofed with C1 certification and 40% to 60% mesh, so as not to interfere with the smoke detection and fire suppression systems. These ceilings must also be attached to a European Union-approved framework structure.
- All electrics come from the service chests in the floor. It is not possible to drop electrical points from the venue ceiling.
- All suspended materials must comply with European Union regulations. Installation work must conform to the venue’s safety regulations.
- All suspended wooden elements must be securely attached to a European Union-approved structure in such a way that the loads are evenly distributed. The anchor points or hoists will be attached to this approved structure. So free hanging wooden structures and wooden canopies/arches that require rigging support are not permitted unless they are securely fixed to a EU approved structure e.g. truss
- Rigging points cannot be attached directly to any wooden elements, this includes structures that are also floor supported. All rigging points must be attached to a truss or a simpler metal element with a CE marking. See image on right.
If you require rigging services then please contact Servifira rigging direct for a quote:
Tel: +34-623042469
All stands in Hall 3 - Email: [email protected]
All stands in Hall 5 - Email: [email protected]
Risk Assessment & Method Statement
All space only stands, or shell scheme stands with construction are required to submit a full risk assessment and method statement for the design, construction and arrangement of their stand with both documents being submitted along with stand plans.
All Health & Safety documentation must demonstrate additional COVID-19 measures that have been implemented for the build, open period and breakdown.
- Working Safely During the COVID-19 Outbreak Guidance
- Risk Assessment Guidance
- Risk Assessment Template
- Method Statement Guidance
- Method Statement Template
For further information please contact the Operations Team.
Exhibitiors are also required to have a risk assessment for any stand activities taking place on their stand during show open and may also be required to produce a method statement for certain activites at the organisers discretion. These do not need to be submitted to the organisers unless requested, but a copy of these documents must be available onsite should they be required.
Signage
Signage and graphics are not permitted to overlook other stands where there is a dividing wall. Where illuminated fascia boards are used on stands, the lighting of them must be of sufficient power to light the fascia board only, and must not cause any spill of light onto neighbouring stands. No flashing lights will be permitted. We reserve the right to disconnect the electrical supply to any illuminated fascia which, in our opinion, is causing a nuisance to any other Exhibitor.
Signage should be used to help communicate and explain to attendees how you are managing your stand space e.g. no handshakes, one-way flow, entrance / exit etc.
Stand Number Panel
We will provide every space only stand with a 400mm x 400mm white foamex panel displaying stand number on both sides. It is your stand contractors responsibility to collect these from the organiser's office onsite and install on the stand. They must be fixed so that they protrude out in to the aisle for maximum visibility. Any panels not collected and installed by 1200hrs on 27 March 2023, we reserve the right to fix these directly to your stand and will not be held liable for any damage caused to your stand.
Vehicles for Display
If you are intending to have a vehicle (including Mobile Exhibition Units, Caravans or Trailers) on your stand please confirm the details in writing to the Organisers so that written approval can be given.
Depending on the type, age and use of the vehicle you will be required to confirm a number of details and which may also require a seperate risk assessment detailing how the risk of bringing and displaying a vehicle in the hall is controlled.
Venue & Local Authority Regulations
All work must be carried out in compliance with the regulations of the Venue and Local Authority. If an exhibitor erects a stand which does not conform fully and in all respects to the requirements of the organiser, Venue and Local Authorities, the organisers reserve the right to alter, demolish or reconstruct the stand at the exhibitors expense and to make it conform to the regulations and requirements. Local Authority decisions are final.
Please click here to view the venue regulations.
Water Features
If you are intending to have a water feature on your stand please confirm the details in writing to the Organisers so that written approval can be given.
Water features that create mists and sprays such as fountains create the risk of the spread of Legionella bacteria in the air that can cause Legionnaire’s disease. Any such feature is a special risk requiring a separate risk assessment detailing how the risk is controlled through water treatment and testing.
Please also note that not all stands will be able to obtain water & waste. To obtain a service chest plan, please contact the Operations team.
Work Equipment & Tools
Exhibitors and contractors are responsible for ensuring that all tools are fit for purpose and safe to use.
- All machines or tools must have the CE approval and must be identified with the corresponding marking. In the case of exhibition machinery that does not have the CE approval, it must comply with the provisions of Article 3 of RD1644/2008.
- All dangerous moving parts such as circular saws must be guarded with controls to prevent unauthorised use.
- The use of battery powered tools is strongly encouraged to reduce trailing cables and risk of electrical hazards.
- Those using mains powered tools must ensure that cables are not trailed across aisles.
- All portable electrical equipment must be subject to a suitable portable equipment testing regime.
In light of COVID-19 it is recommended that where possible, work equipment, tools and workstations are not shared between workers. Where this is not possible then equipment, tools and workstations should be cleaned after use.
Working at Height
Working at Height is a high risk activity and close attention will be taken on working practices during the build and dismantling of stands. Where possible working at height should be avoided and if unavoidable should use work equipment or other measures to minimise the distance and consequences of a fall should one occur. All work at heights must be carried out in compliance with the regulations on Occupational Risk Prevention. Specifically, R.D 2177/2004, of November 12th, which establishes the minimum health and safety requirements for the use of equipment by employees, regarding temporary work at heights. As such, all working at height is subject to risk assessment.
General Guidance:
- All rigging is to be carried out by the official Rigging Contractor.
- All working platforms are to have a guardrail, mid rail and toe board. Tools are to be kept on lanyards so far as is reasonably practicable.
- Static and mobile access working platforms must be fit for purpose (see Working Platforms)
- A Live Edge Working Policy will be enforced for the construction and dismantling phases where live edges are present.
- Separate risk assessments are required for working on a live edge (before rails are in place). In such cases fall arrest equipment must always be used.
- Operatives working at height other than on a static working platform designed for that purpose (e.g. Scaffold) must be clipped on.
- Operatives working at height must have suitable head protection e.g. bump caps.
- Ground access to areas in the vicinity must be controlled to prevent persons accidentally walking directly under high works. Ground workers in the vicinity must not work directly under high works and wear suitable head protection e.g. hard hats.
For further advice on working at height safety, please contact the Operations Team.
Working Platforms
All Mobile Elevated Work Platforms (MEWPS) must comply with LOLER and have had a Thorough Inspection (TI) in the previous 6 months. All working platforms are to have a guardrail, mid rail and toe board. Mobile access towers must be correctly constructed. Mobile access towers must be fit for purpose. Outriggers are to be used correctly with the correct height to width ratio (3.5 x shortest base width indoors and 3 x shortest base width outdoors). Mobile access towers may not be moved whilst in use and wheels must be locked off. Ladders must be footed or tied off and used in accordance with Construction (Health Safety and Welfare) Regulations. The use of domestic ladders and steps is strictly forbidden. All of the above are a summarised guide. For full details on any particular aspect you must seek professional advice for instance look on the HSE website www.hse.gov.uk or feel free to seek advice from the Operations Team.