ExCel London

1-2 JULY 2026

Stand Design Guide

Stand Design Guide

What is Included in a Space Only Package?

What does it look like/ what’s included?

Space only stands are just that. No walling or stand fittings will be provided and you are responsible for organising all of this at your own cost. Depending on the size of your space, you will receive some electrics. The design of your stand is your responsibility and must be such that it can be erected and dismantled within the time available; please refer to the exhibition timetable for the build-up and breakdown schedule. When you arrive on-site the area of the stand will be marked out on the venue floor. It is your responsibility to ensure that the stand is built to the correct floor markings. If you are unsure of these please contact the organiser’s office before commencing build.

Exhibitors wishing to lay flooring i.e. brick, stone or mortar on the floor must take adequate precautions to protect the floor from damage such as an under-lay of heavy duty building paper or similar material. Carpets must be securely fixed using regulation low tack tape only. You will be charged if non-regulation tape is used. Any carpet and floor coverings brought into the venue must be of an acceptable standard, they must be removed at the end of the exhibition and all carpet tape must be lifted from the floor. Abandoned material will result in a charge for disposal. Please ensure that your contractor is aware of this.

Please note that if you order carpet or floor coverings from another supplier they must also collect and remove this from the venue during breakdown. Failure to do this will result in a disposal fee.

Official Stand Builders

Symbiosis

Please find listings below of our preferred stand contractors. We highly recommend using one of our preferred suppliers. 

+442070390101

hello@symbiosis.co.uk

Submission Process

All space only stands have a legal obligation to build the stand to the required standards of the venue and local authority. To ensure that you are building your stand to the correct regulations, professional scale drawings showing all proposed construction must be submitted and approved; photographs and faxed copies cannot be accepted.

The design of your stand must be such that it can be erected and dismantled within the time available. A method statement for the construction process must accompany these plans along with a risk assessment and health and safety declaration. The Organiser reserves the right not to allow the build of your stand to begin if plans have not been submitted and approved prior to the show.

The following information must be submitted in full by the deadline for both complex and non-complex stands.

All information is to be submitted in English and include exhibiting company’s name and stand number.

Please make a complete submission to (Essential Events): iGBstandplans@worldgamingbusiness.com

 

Deadlines

  • Double Decker Request Deadline: - 24th April 2026
  • Complex Stand Plan Deadline :- 8th May 2026
  • Non-Complex Stand Plan Deadline :- 22nd May 2026

 

Required Documentation

  • All plans, structural calculations and documentations must be in English and should clearly state the exhibiting companies name, stand number and the contact name, company and contact details of the contractor responsible for the stand build. Please try and ensure you are including all required information in one email submission.
  • Scaleable plan view drawings showing the overall stand dimensions, all dimensions of stand fitting, walling, construction and entry/exit points as well as the location of furniture and exhibits. Dimensions should be in centimeters, millimeters and meters. Elevation view drawings showing all build heights, including any rigging.
  • Any suspended element must be shown on rigging plans - include its dimensions, position, height, materials/ system used and method of construction
  • Full visuals/ photographs to support the technical plans
  • A risk assessment and method statement for the stand build up & breakdown.
  • Fire Risk Assessment for the stand once it is in use
  • A construction phase plan for the stand.
  • A copy of the public liability insurance (minimum cover £2million GBP (or the equivalent if detailed in a different currency). This should be provided by the company responsible for building the stand.
  • Please make sure your client has permission from WorldGaming for any suspended elements. Your plans will not be approved if they include suspended elements without the appropriate permission.
  • Detail all building materials to be used
  • Details must prove structural stability
  • Fire certificates for fabric banners/ plants etc
  • Positioning of DJ booths
  • Waste Management Plan
  • Stand Design Inspection Form
  • Details of special risks to include vehicle exhibitors. 

Approval for a stand from a previous show will not be accepted as proof of permission to commence build and plans must be submitted afresh for every show.

Permision to commence build must not be assumed until written permission is received from Essential Events.

When written permission to build have been granted for the original design, no altercations may be made without the agreement of Essential Events. Any changes or amendments to the design  or change of contractor will require a full resubmission of plans and will be subkect to an additional resubmission fee.

All submissions MUST include your waste management plan, including confirmed orders from Excel London.

All submissions MUST include your Stand Design Inspection form.

For complex stands, the additional information detailed below is required:
  • Construction drawings & static calculations to prove the stability of all complex structure/s.
  • For multi-storey stands and stands with steps, you must submit step, handrail and balustrade drawings showing all step dimensions, handrail & balustrade heights and details of handrail & balustrade infills. Loadings for each element must be detailed in the calculations.
If your stand design incorporates complex rigging that include timber structures, suspended stand build, canopies, metal structures and suspended exhibits, the following information will be required:
  • Construction drawings and static calculations to prove the stability of the rigging structure.
  • Calculations to prove that the rigging elements are capable of span between rigging points.
  • Lifting tackles are to be proved capable of supporting the weight of the elements.
  • Lifting points must be clearly indicated in the drawing(s) together with magnitude of load for each individual suspension point.
  • If standard trusses are incorporated into support the elements, calculations are to be provided to prove its capacity.
If your stand design incorporates complex rigging that include modified banner systems or simple logo drops, the following information will be required:
  • Banner system manufacturer specification document and construction drawing of amendment showing materials, total weight, load per point, fixing connections and their rating.
  • Construction drawing of element along with material, total weight, load per point, fixing connection and their rating.

Submitted information should be in the form of drawings and calculations. Drawings should contain enough detail to show exactly how the stand elements will be rigged including: connection details between venues rigging point to suspended elements, construction details of joints between elements etc. All lifting equipment/lifting tackle (i.e., eye bolts, threaded rod, steel cables, and hooks) must comply with all current, relevant legislation and must be rated. Test certification should be made available for inspection. For super platforms & multi-storey stands, you must submit a two-storey Method Statement.

The organiser reserves the right not to allow the build of your stand to begin if plans have not been submitted or approved prior to the show.

Please remember over 4m stands will NOT BE permitted , unless they are double decker stands. 

 

Stand Design Regulation

Barriers (Balustrades)

Barriers shall be provided to protect exposed edges of staircases, landings, balconies, galleries, and other changes of level. They shall:

Balustrades must be non-climbable, i.e., with solid infills or vertical guard rails a maximum of 100mm apart.

Balustrades used to protect landings and falls from height must have a minimum height of 110cm.

Balustrade loadings must have a loading capacity of 1.6kN per m².

Depending on the stand design, gaps must not be formed; there must always be a continuation of handrail and balustrade.

Construction Materials

Water-based, where applicable, e.g. adhesives and paint

Non-combustible, inherently non-flammable or durably flameproof.

Adequately prepared and fixed in order adequately to perform the functions for which they are designed.

Suitable for the purposes and conditions of their intended use.

All materials used in the construction of stands, features and displays, including signs and fascia’s, shall be:

Suitable samples of materials may be required to be submitted to the venue for approval.

Materials may be tested on site to ensure that they comply with fire safety requirements.

Decorative materials used for stand dressing must be flame proofed or purchased already treated by use of the appropriate chemical.

All artificial decoration and flowers must meet fire regulations and have supporting fire certification to provide upon request.

Drapes, curtains, hangings, etc, must be inherently or durably flame-proofed. Otherwise, they may be treated with a flame retardant. Test certificates must be available for inspection for any materials intended to be used.

Fabrics used for interior stand decoration must be fixed taut and/or in tight pleats (not loosely draped) to a solid backing, secured above floor level and not touching light fittings.

Curtains on exit routes should hang 75mm clear of the floor, be parted in the centre and not conceal any exit signs.

Night sheets must be made of inherently non-flammable material or of material satisfactorily treated to render it non-flammable. They shall be stored rolled-up and firmly secured and not cause any obstruction while not in use.

Only water-based paint may be used on site. If paint-spraying equipment is to be used, the method must be approved by the Venue and not cause a nuisance to others. Protective measures shall be taken to ensure that no paint is spilt or sprayed on to the fabric of the building.

All materials such as plastic, including plastic plants and materials used for vision panels, etc, must be non-flammable.

Timber under 25mm thick must be impregnated to be fire resistant. Treated materials should be marked as such. Boards, plywood, chipboard, etc, must be treated if under 18mm thick. The exception to this is MDF.MDF may be used as dressing only but strongly discouraged due to it not being sustainable.

Ceilings

Enclosed roof structures are allowed to be built provided that the specifications of the construction, decorative or furniture materials, established in these regulations, are met.

Since the ceilings can be seen from higher floors, their finish should always be aesthetically pleasing. Branded ceilings are considered an additional sponsorship opportunity and must therefore be booked with the organisers. The fee incurred by the additional sponsorship opportunity is for the advertising rights only.

You are responsible for the production of the rigged item and placing your rigging order by the specified deadline.

When covering the stand with a ceiling, it is recommended that this ceiling is permeable so that the general temperature control of the hall reaches the space of the stand.

Ceilings made from textile must have a smoke detector. Textile ceilings are to be one layer only and stretched horizontally.

Ceilings made from wire mesh are accepted without a smoke detector if they are fire resistant M0, M1 or M2 (Euroclass A, B or C) and have a minimum opening of 2mm x 4mm or 3mm x 3mm.

Ceilings made with a metal grid are accepted without a smoke detector, if they are fire resistant M0, M1 or M2 (Euroclass A, B or C) and have a minimum opening of 10mm x 10mm.

Stands with closed ceilings, textile or solid, up to 6m high that do not allow smoke to escape, must have smoke detectors and a CE-certified fire alarm system installed.

The certificates must comply with the prescriptions of the CTE, DB SI-1, table 4.1, Euroclasses, DIN 4102-B1 or their equivalent standards.

Relevant certificates must be available for presentation upon request.

A minimum of one smoke detector is required for every 60m2 of closed ceiling, it means that a closed ceiling of 100m2 requires a minimum of two smoke detectors.

In narrow corridors and covered spaces less than 3 m wide, the minimum distance between detectors must be 15m.


For stands with less than 100m2 of enclosed space, independent and autonomous smoke detectors with integrated alarms are accepted if they are certified by the CE standard and comply with the following points:
Stands smaller than 100m2, ground floor only
The length and width dimensions are less than 10m.

Non-permitted Construction Materials

WorldGaming does not permit the following stand construction methods or materials:

Chipboard (may be used as dressing only but strongly discouraged due to it not being sustainable).

Sanding and cutting without extraction. Work must be pre-planned and build prefabricated/preconstructed with easy assembly to avoid construction onsite and excessive cutting and sanding.

Led-based paints and primers.

Products containing isocyanate or labelled as H332 (harmful).

iGB L!VE and Essential Events will not accept stand designs formed of timber if full construction is required onsite. Stands formed of timber will only be permitted if it is prefabricated and easily assembled onsite without excessive cutting, sawing and construction methods required. This applies to ground mounted structures as well as rigged elements.

All timber constructions must have a timber frame built ahead of arriving within the exhibition halls comprising of connected horizontal and vertical cross-bracing. Prefabrication must not involve chipboard, MDF or hazardous chemicals. MDF is not a structural material and it is hazardous to health when cut.  Build materials must be fit for purpose and meet fire regulations.

Pre-show evidence of the use of prefabrication is required during the inspection process and prior to WorldGaming and their appointed stand plan inspection agency issuing provisional clearance. Your appointed Stand Contractor will need to provide details of how the stand will be built in line with the show timetable. The cutting of timber onsite is permitted when used for flooring and dressing only, and suitable extraction is mandatory. Cutting without extraction is not permitted.

Prohibition of Two-Part Fillers

The use of two-part fillers (e.g. Novol, P38,  and similar products) is strictly prohibited during all construction and build phases of the event.

These products contain hazardous substances that release toxic fumes during mixing and curing, and generate harmful airborne dust when sanded. Exposure can cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, skin sensitisation and other adverse long-term health effects, presenting a risk not only to the user but to others working nearby.

Any two-part filler found on site will be confiscated. Non-compliance may result in a charge being levied and further action taken in line with event regulations. Only water based and non-toxic alternatives may be used.

 

Approved Alternatives to Two-Part Fillers

Where surface finishing or minor repairs are required during the build period, only single-part, non-toxic and low-VOC products may be used. Acceptable alternatives include, but are not limited to:

  • Ready-mixed, single-part decorators’ fillers
  • Water-based lightweight fillers
  • Water-based acrylic or polymer fillers
  • Pre-mixed jointing compounds (water-based)
  • Low-dust, water-based wood fillers
  • Paper tape and jointing systems used in accordance with manufacturer guidance

All construction must be completed by 20:00 on Tuesday 30th June 2026

Construction will be stopped immediately if unsuitable working methods or materials are found onsite. Further sanctions may apply

Dilapidations

The fixing to the hall floor and walls of nails, screws, bolts, etc. is not permitted.

Carpet tape must also be removed from the hall floor (Stikatak B7 exhibition tape is the tape recommended).

Exhibitors are responsible for the cost of making good, restoring, or renewing any dilapidations made to the hall or any part thereof.

The organisers will inspect every site before and after the construction of stands. In their own interest exhibitors should satisfy themselves as to the condition of their site(s) before and after stand construction and clearance.

The charges incurred for any materials removed by the venue or the venue’s contractors at the end of breakdown will be passed on to the exhibitor responsible.

Doors

Doors that are placed within stands must adhere to the below rules depending on size and capacity:

Doors are not allowed to open outwards unless room capacity is more than 50 persons where there are specially appointed emergency exits.

Rooms with maximum 50 persons capacity: door can open inwards.

Rooms with more than 50 persons capacity: door must open outwards.

Rooms with more than 99 persons capacity: a minimum of two separate doors is needed

All emergency doors must open in the direction of exit. This means that doors close to the gangway edge must be recessed sufficiently inside the stand so that when fully open the door remains fully inside the stand space and does not protrude into the gangway.

Automatic sliding doors can only be placed in an area with a maximum capacity of 50 people. These doors must either be backed up with a security system that automatically opens the doors in the case of a power cut or have a manual override button that can open the door in case of emergencies. These installations require a 24-hour power supply to your stand.

Manual sliding doors located in emergency routes most also adhere to the above-mentioned points Stand Restrictions.

Doors leading to exits or to storage areas or meeting rooms must have vision panels. Vision panels must have 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.

Double Decker Stands

Exhibitors must seek approval from the organiser to exhibit with a two-storey stand. The organiser operates an approval process whereby the organiser reviews each request to determine whether it is safe to build a double decker stand in its location. Requests are reviewed on a first come, first served basis. Only island stands can be considered to exhibit with a double decker.

To request permission to build a two-storey stand, you must contact the organisers no later than the 24th April 2026, detailing your intentions and your appointed stand contactor. After this date, requests may not be accepted. 

Stands where more than 50 people can occupy the upper level require a minimum of two separate staircases leading from any floor above ground. 

The following basic considerations must be addressed by the designer of a double decker stand: 

Stability:

◼ Stability at all stages of construction and dismantling #

◼ Identifying the point at which the structure can support itself

◼ Identifying the permanent elements that ensure stability

◼ The sequence of construction and the sequence for the removal of any temporary parts

◼ Calculations indicating the relevant forces and load capability of the structure

◼ The floor loading capacity of the venue

Construction and Dismantling:

◼ Drawings must clearly identify the sequence of construction, e.g. construction of frame; insertion of legs; fixing of bracing

◼ A clear plan for dismantling the stand must be identified

◼ The time available for construction and dismantling of the stand must be taken into consideration

◼ A safe system of work must be identified within the methods for construction and dismantling, e.g. work equipment; temporary handrails; fall-arrest system

Assessment of Loads:

◼ A realistic assessment of the loads and forces at each stage should be made in consideration of the erection sequence 

Connections:

◼ The design should consider the safest means of connecting components and, where appropriate, indicate the necessary provision of access equipment and the safe system of work

◼ Connections shall be simple and effective to reduce the time spent working at height

Materials Handling:

◼ The design should take account of the safe handling, lifting, storage, stacking

The floor of the upper level of a multi-storey stand must be capable of withstanding a weight loading of 5kN/m2.

Emergency Lighting

The illumination provided by normal lighting and emergency lighting should be sufficient to enable anyone to see their way out of stands, seminar rooms and theatres at all times. Any battery used for emergency lighting should be able to operate for a minimum of three hours after the failure of the normal supply.

Escape Routes and Travel Distances

There must be adequate escape routes from any point of the stand or structure. Escape routes must:

Be clear of obstructions.

Be even and have a firm, smooth and slip-resistant finish.

Have a minimum, unobstructed height of 2.1m, other than within doorways, which should have a clear height of no less than 2.06m.

Not be less than 2 metres wide, except within stands of less than 100m2, where gangways must be no less than 1m wide.

Have a travel distance from any part of a stand to an open side, exit or gangway which does not exceed 25 meters.

Exit Signs

There must be sufficient illuminated exit signs positioned so that they can be seen to facilitate escape in an emergency. Exit signs should be:

A minimum height of 200mm and a minimum width of 400mm.

On a 24-hour electrical supply and always illuminated.

Fire Prevention

The materials used must comply with the current regulations. They must comply with the provisions of the Spanish Technical Building Code.

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. The organisers reserve the right to request the certificates corresponding to the materials used in the stands or for their decoration.

Floor Coverings

All floor coverings must be secured and maintained so that they do not cause a hazard. Fixing of floor coverings to the hall floor may only be carried out using approved tape. Other forms of fixing to the hall floor, such as cable clips, nails and bolts, are prohibited.

e-Guide

The aim of this guidance is to set standards which will safeguard the health and safety of any person working at or visiting an event or exhibition. The guide should be used to guide the organiser, the venue, contractors and exhibitors with regards to the minimum acceptable safety standards in any country whilst recognising that many countries may have higher standards which will take precedence. The guide is widely applicable to events but have been written specifically with exhibitions in mind. The guidelines cover the main areas of risk. Advice should be sought on areas not covered by these guidelines.

To download a copy of the e-guide use this link.

Glazing and Glass

All glazing used in the construction of stands must consist of safety glass (laminated or tempered) a minimum of 8mm thick to prevent injury from glass shattering. 

All glazing and mirrors used in the construction of stands must consist of safety glass that is laminated. The use of annealed and tempered glass will not be accepted. The material must comply with Spanish AENOR, British, or European standards (e.g., BS 6206, BS 6262, or BS EN 12600). Documentary evidence or labelling is required. The minimum thickness is 8mm, according to the table below:

Please see further regulations below:

Any uninterrupted, large areas of clear glazing shall be indicated with warning stripes, dots, logos, etc.

Corners must be polished or protected if they would otherwise pose a hazard to people striking them. 

Overhead glazing shall be of wired or laminated glass or be otherwise adequately protected.

If it is used in barriers/handrails it must be 10mm thick.

If it is used upstairs depending on the height it must be 12mm-20mm thick.

If in the floor it must be 20mm thick.

If overhead it must be 20mm thick.

Hall Lighting

The exhibition hall lighting will be set at 100% throughout build and breakdown. The lighting will then be reduced to 50% on open morning at 08:00 and will remain at 50% until 18:00 on the final day of open the event closes (when it will change back to 100% for breakdown).

It is possible to turn off lights above your stand for an additional fee. To request this please do so by contacting  Excel Venue Services. 

Handrails

Handrails must be easy to grab and hold on to. Ends should terminate in a way clothing cannot be caught.

Handrail loadings must have a loading capacity of 1.6kN per m².

Depending on the stand design, gaps must not be formed; there must always be a continuation of handrail and balustrade.

The vertical height to the top of the upper handrail from the pitch line of the surface of a ramp, flight of steps or landing must be between 900mm and 1000mm

Handrails shall be continuous across flights and landings of ramped and stepped access. 

 Handrails shall extend at least 300mm beyond the top and bottom riser of any steps. 

The surface of handrails shall be slip resistant

The clearance between the handrail and any wall shall be between 60 and 75mm. 

Double-width staircases shall have a central handrail.

 Handrails shall be non-climbable, e.g. with solid infills or vertical guardrails, which should be no more than 100mm apart and without horizontal members between vertical

Height Limits

It is the responsibility of the exhibitor and their appointed stand contractor to inspect the location of the stand. In some instances there might be further height restrictions in addition to the below set by the organiser.

As standard, Single storey stands must not exceed 4 meters. This includes all stand fitting, walls, lighting, signage and platforms.

Single storey stands may exceed 4 meters in height (to a maximum of 6 meters) subject to approval from the organiser by 24th April 2026. This will only be allowed if the location of your stand is in the perimeter aisles of the floorplan. If permission is given, construction drawings and calculations will be required as this will be deemed as a complex ground mounted structure. Complex stand plan inspection fees will apply.

Double decker stands should not exceed 6 meters. Authorisation to build a two-storey stand must be given by the organiser. To request permission to build a two-storey stand, you must contact the organisers no later than the 24th April 2026, detailing your intentions and your appointed stand contactor. Triple deck structures are not permitted.

Insurance

It is a requirement that all Exhibitors and their appointed Stand Contractors have at least £2m of Civil Liability Insurance.

Installation of air conditioning systems

In the case that the use of individual air conditioning units is necessary, the reasons, location and type of individual temperature control systems must be communicated to the organiser for their approval.

Platforms

Platforms are permitted but consideration to wheelchair and less-able bodied visitors must be given. 

Platforming Aisles

Exhibitors who have stands either side of a gangway may not link their stands.

All gangways must be kept visible and clear of obstructions. It is not permitted to platform gangways without express approval from the organiser.

You are not permitted to carpet or use stickers or equipment of any kind in the gangway without permission from the organiser.


Ramps

Ramps should be of a gradient that is not too steep for use by pedestrians and wheelchairs. Where the change in level is no greater than 300mm, a ramp should be provided instead of a single step .The following are the ideal requirements:

Ramps should not be greater than 10m or  have a rise of more than 50cm. If the ramp has a rise of more than 50cm, it will be deemed complex.

 

Ramps with a slope larger than or equal to 6% and with a height of more than 18.5 cm, will have continuous handrails throughout their entire length, including the floors, on both sides.

Free edges will have a plinth or side protection element of at least 10cm high. When the length of the section exceeds 3 m, the handrail will extend horizontally at least 30 cm at the ends, on both sides.

Ramps should have a minimum, unobstructed width of 1.5m.

The surface of the ramp must be slip resistant.

Where the change in level is 300mm or more, 2 or more clearly signposted steps should be provided in addition to the ramp.

Rigging

The service of basic anchoring points (also called rigging) is exclusive to Excel Rigging and offered through its official provider. It is prohibited to hang any element directly from the ceiling of the halls and facilities.

The exhibitors or their appointed stand contractors must request the rigging points according to the load distribution conducted by their qualified technician. Rigging points shall not bear a load exceeding 150kg per point to ensure the structural stability of the ceiling. The load per point must include the truss, structures, safety steel, spotlights, banners, manual chain hoists (approximately 35kg each) or electrical chain hoist (approximately 50kg each). It is not always possible to locate anchoring points in all the exhibition areas of the hall, since there may be restrictions that depend on the hall and the points already in use, as well as the load capacity of the ceiling. In this circumstance there may be a requirement for prior adjustment for the rigging (pre-rigging). This adjustment may entail additional costs that shall be charged to the exhibitor or their appointed stand contractor.

The structures must be designed to resist the static and dynamic loads associated with their final design, as well as consider their steps for build-up and breakdown.

Rigging Regulations:

Branded rigging is considered an additional sponsorship opportunity and must therefore be booked with the organiser. The fee incurred by the additional sponsorship opportunity is for the advertising rights only. You are responsible for the production of the rigged item and placing your rigging order by the specified deadline.

Please check with Organisers when placing your order as there may be some height restrictions. The bottom of the banner needs to be at least 4m from the ground and there should be at least a 1m clearance from the top of the stand to the bottom of the banner. The banner needs to be printed on all sides. 

Any rigging containing branded elements must be a minimum of 1 metre distance from any partition walls with neighbouring stands

If a vinyl banner is being produced, please ensure it is produced in line with the venue requirements. Please note that poles must be brought with the banners and that the venue and iGB cannot supply these.  All hanging banners are to be hung above a stand and are to not exceed the stand size.

 

Exhibitors wishing to carry out their own hoist and fix after ExCeL Rigging have installed the suspension point are responsible for meeting the legal requirement of the Lifting Operation and Lifting Equipment Regulations 1998 (LOLER) and The Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations 1998 (PUWER). It is essential that stand contractors performing hoist and fix operations must complete risk assessments, method statements and be competent to undertake such activity. Please ensure that you complete a “Hoist & Fix” form supplied with your rigging quote if you are undertaking your own rigging and are attaching to Excel’s installed points.

 

Equipment that is to be suspended must be suitable and sufficient, structurally sound, fit for purpose, not in excess of the Safe Working Limit of the anchorage point and comply with LOLER. It must also be "flown” using approved rigging techniques. Excel London are not responsible for the integrity of any hoist and fix performed by third party. ExCeL London and the Organisers reserve the right to refuse any "flown" equipment that is in breach of the legislation or rigged incorrectly.

 

All Exhibitors carrying out their own rigging must complete and sign the Secondary HOIST AND FIX Rigging Form. We need to attain the suspension point locations, and their orientation in relation to the building and the event, the weight of each point, the "hook" height required, the date of the lifting operation and the date of the lifting operation/

ExCeL Rigging are able to supply the full range of rigging equipment from motors & control; to 6mm drop wires and would be happy to advise on or discuss your rigging requirements. When ordering suspension equipment, it is a legal requirement under LOLER to provide ExCeL Rigging with a plan, accurately showing the following:

For an additional charge, ExCeL Rigging will perform the hoist and fix providing this information is available. Failure to supply this information may result in ExCeL London and the Organisers refusing to allow the equipment to be flown. Please note there is a cut-off date for rigging orders after which ExCeL Rigging reserve the right to refuse late orders, and/or impose a late-order surcharge

 

For health and safety reasons, ExCeL Rigging are the sole riggers allowed to attach to the fabric of the building.

For all rigging enquiries, please email rigging@excel.london with a full plan of your rigging requirements.

 

Placing your Rigging Order

To request the rigging service, it is necessary to fill out the form available online via the  ExCel Venue Services and submit it along with the documentation listed below:

Complex Rigging

All complex rigging must be checked by the appointed engineer prior to it being lifted. Once approved by the appointed engineer, you will be issued with a 'Permit to raise’. 

 

Clarion Regulations

Rigging is permitted, however bespoke build, modified rig structures, timber build/ frame/ cladding and elements not designed to be hung will be deemed Complex.

Branded rigged items are deemed as Sponsorship. Please contact the Organisers to ensure you have this included in your contract. 

The Rigging Inspection Manager must inspecr and give permission for the rigging to be raised via issuing a 'Permit to Rig' notice.

Any rigging containing branded elements must be a minimum of 1m away from partition walls with neighbouring stands.

Service Chests

Many of all service chests have the same supply:

III 400 V (CEE plug with 5 holes)
7 connections: 1X 63 amp, 2X 32A, 4X 16A
Compressed air: 2 hoses per chest, 500-800 l/m, 7 bar.
Water supply: 2 per chest, 1/2 inch, 4 bar, waste is 32mm

To confirm what supplies can be pulled from the service chests within your stand location, contact the relevant supplier.

All connection service chests located on the floors of the halls must be easy to register and must always be easily accessible. If a platform is installed, a hatch will be needed. A platform of 50mm should be enough to cover electrical cables though we recommend a platform of minimum 80mm for water and air connections regardless of whether those supplies are needed for the space which has the service chest or is planned for any of the neighbouring stands. If during build-up or show any cable gets unplugged for some reason, the chest needs to be accessed by the technical teams.

If your service chest is shared with another exhibitor(s), it must be accessible for your neighbouring exhibitor(s) at any time. Therefore, shutting off power or placing a lockable cover on the service chest is strictly prohibited.

Stairs

The safe use and management of steps is the exhibitor’s responsibility. Please see the below requirements:

A level landing must be provided at the top and bottom of each flight.

Landings shall have a minimum, unobstructed length of 1.2m.

Flights shall have a minimum, unobstructed width of 1.1m.

 Doors shall not swing across landings.

A continuous handrail must be provided on each side of flights and landings.

Any step nosing’s/overhangs must be shown clearly on staircases for review with the ExCel.

A level landing must be provided at the top and bottom of each flight. Landings must have a minimum unobstructed length of 1m.

Doors must not swing across landings.

Cupboards formed beneath the staircase must be lined throughout with non-combustible material.

Spiral staircases are only permitted for exhibiting staff use and not for members of the public.

All nosings must be made apparent by means of a permanently contracting material 55mm wide on both the tread and the riser. The projection of a step nosing over a tread below should be avoided but, if necessary, it must not exceed 25mm.

The venue will additionally accept stepped access complying with the specifications of BS 5395. However, the use of stepped access that is not compliant either with this standard or with the specifications given above (e.g. pre-existing modular and system staircases) will be subject to venue approval on a case-by-case basis

Risers

The rise of each step must be between 150mm and 170mm.

All risers must be closed. Open risers are not permitted.

The riser of each step must be consistent throughout the flight i.e. the same height.

 

Treads

The tread of each step must be between 280mm and 425mm.

The tread of each step must be consistent throughout the flight i.e. the same depth.

ALL treads and risers must be clearly delineated so visible when ascending/descending the flight.

Deck and staircase must have a loading capacity of 5kN per m².

 

Flights between landings shall contain no more than 12 risers where the treads are less than 350mm and no more than 18 risers where the treads are 350mm or greater.

Stand Security

The organiser and Excel shall be responsible for providing general surveillance, as well as general and preventative safety. Under no circumstances is this security measure intended for and focused on the goods displayed, nor on the goods of each exhibitor. The organisers accept no liability for the goods that are the property of the Exhibitors or their employees. Moreover, the organiser shall not accept any liability for the robbery or theft of the materials and articles placed in the stands or any other space of the venue, nor for the damages that may be suffered during build and breakdown. Each exhibitor is exclusively responsible for the surveillance and safety of their particular belongings. However, ExCel and the organiser may provide the necessary support to resolve or process the corresponding complaint with the authorities. 

We recommend that exhibitors consider having their own surveillance service for their stand.

If an exhibitor wishes to hire the surveillance service or a security company other than that of Excel, they must provide the “Private surveillance in stands” form, duly completed, to the Division of Safety and Mobility at least 48 hours in advance. This form contains the regulations and conditions for the provision of this service.

Timber

iGB and Essential Events will not accept stand designs formed of timber if full construction is required onsite. Stands formed of timber will only be permitted if it is prefabricated and easily assembled onsite without excessive cutting, sawing and construction methods required. This applies to ground mounted structures as well as rigged elements.

All timber constructions must have a timber frame built ahead of arriving within the exhibition halls comprising of connected horizontal and vertical cross-bracing. Prefabrication must not involve chipboard, MDF or hazardous chemicals. MDF is not a structural material and it is hazardous to health when cut.  Build materials must be fit for purpose and meet fire regulations.

The cutting of timber onsite is permitted when used for flooring and dressing only, and suitable extraction is mandatory. Cutting without extraction is not permitted.

Timber under 25mm thick must be impregnated to be fire resistant. Treated materials should be marked as such. Boards, plywood, chipboard, etc, must be treated if under 18mm thick.

Walling

Dividing and partition walling
Space only sites are not provided with any partition walling. On divided sites (where the stand adjoins neighbouring stands or the Venue), Exhibitors are responsible for erecting their own walls meeting with the following requirements:

Partitions must be a minimum height of 2.5m.

The rear of the partitioning walls must be dressed above 2.4m in a plain, neutral colour to a maximum height of your stand.

Branding (both static and digital) and logos are not permitted on the rear of dividing walls where these overlook neighbouring Exhibitors.

Exhibitors may not use the back of the other stand walls without the consent of the exhibitor concerned.

Exhibitors adjoining a shell scheme stand may not use the reverse of the neighbouring shell as their dividing wall.

Walling on open sides

Solid runs of construction or walling along gangway edges are forbidden.

All stands, irrespective of height, must have at least 50% of each frontage either open or fitted with (approved) transparent material with no more than a 4m continuous run of solid walling.

Where runs of walling are to exceed 4m a minimum of 1m visual break must be incorporated. The break must span 0.5m to 2m in height measured from the building floor. This ensures a break for both wheelchair users and standing people. Furthermore, a visual break must be 100% transparent. Frosted windows will not be permitted as this contravenes a visual break.

Waste Management

Unmanaged waste poses safety risks, including injury, increased threat of fire, blocks fire exits and hinders access for medical teams in emergencies. Our health and safety policy prohibits the accumulation of waste on stands, in storage areas, in gangways and in communal areas. Waste generated from the construction and dismantling of stands must be removed at the end of each day.

Each exhibitor will be required to contract a minimum 1100lt standard waste management via Excel Venue Services. The requirement is determined by stand size. Each exhibitor/contractor will need to show proof that they have ordered the corresponding 1100lt waste management through Excel Venue Services before they can obtain the Drawing Inspection Notice. See the below requirement:

Order your waste removal services via the Excel Venue Services by Sunday 31st May 2026 to guarantee the best rate. Failure to order the required waste removal services ahead of arriving onsite for build-up and breakdown will result in you not being permitted to commence the construction of your stand.

If a large amount of waste needs to be removed, a container must be ordered through Excel Venue Services at an additional cost. The removal of large quantities of waste is not included in the m3 standard waste management and will be invoiced if not ordered. If waste is not management appropriately or timely, further sanctions may apply.

All space only exhibitors must submit a Waste Management Plan. Your Waste Management Plan must be submitted alongside your stand plan submission.

It is not permitted to use the bathroom sinks for the build-up and breakdown work. The designated industrial sinks must be used for these activities.

Fly tipping, or the dumping of waste illegally instead of using an authorised method, is prohibited. If you are found to have fly tipped your waste within the halls, the lorry ways, or the vicinity of the venue, fines or sanctions will apply.

At the end of the breakdown period, the contracted surface must be completely clean, which includes removing the adhesive carpet tape and any other material. Any exhibitors that still have waste will be charged the cost of cleaning and waste removal to restore the conditions of the contracted space.

Water and drainage

 

Water connections may be available for your stand depending on where it is located. If you are planning to exhibit with water features, you must notify the organisers for approval via the Special Activities Form. You must ensure no water leaks are in place and that all water is treated and that this is fully described on your Risk Assessment. The organisers reserve the right to stop any water feature on exhibition stands if these safety measures are not in place.

All exhibitors wishing to use water on their stands must note the following:

Water and drainage outlets can be found within the halls, but if any additional outlets need to be installed, these will be charged to the exhibitor who has requested them. Contact Excel Venue Services for more information.

Pressure piping with double-sided threads must be used. For arrangements that require constant water pressure, it is recommended that regulators are used and, if necessary, devices installed to maintain or increase the pressure.

The organisers takes no responsibility for interruptions or irregularities in the water supply. Without exception, the basic regulations governing internal installations to supply water must be complied with.

Welding equipment and hot works

For safety reasons, cutting and welding work cannot be carried out without the prior approval from the organisers.

Appointed Health and Safety Officer

At iGB L!VE it is now compulsory that each complex space only stand declare a competent person who is responsible for overall safety during the build and breakdown of their stand. These individuals will be deemed ‘safety officers’ and will be responsible for ensuring safe working practices are being adhered to. It is a further requirement that your assigned safety officer is onsite and contactable at your stand location for the duration of the build and breakdown of your stand. In the event the organiser or their appointed health and safety/floor management teams needs to liaise with your safety officer onsite and they are absent, all worked will be stopped until their return. Repeated incidences of absence can lead to your entire stand crew being dismissed from site. Your stand safety officer will be required to speak English.

Exhibitors will need to declare the name and contact details of their stand’s safety officer via the health and safety declaration form through the exhibitor manual ASAP.