Electrical Code
Because the safety of exhibitors and attendees is of paramount importance to us, electrical requirements for an exhibit at all convention facilities are based on national electrical codes and local ordinances.
In the interest of public safety, exhibits at all convention facilities may be inspected to determine if any violations exist. If any problems exist, qualified electricians are available to correct the problems. This corrective work will be performed on a time and materials basis. If the exhibitor does not wish to have the fault corrected, electrical service to that booth will not be connected. If an exhibitor is not informed, or does not understand basic safety standards for electrical wiring, a professional electrician should be consulted before shipment is made to convention facilities.
By taking the following important steps and understanding the basic requirements, we can all work together to uphold the highest standards of safety.
- All wiring must have a 3-wire grounded cord with a minimum of #14 gauge.
- Spot or flood lighting is a hazard when lamps are too close to fabrics or other material that can be affected by heat.
- The use of clip-on sign sockets, latex, or lamp cord wire in displays, or the use of 2-wire clamp on fixtures is PROHIBITED by order of fire prevention bureaus at trade shows and conventions.
- Zip cords or 2-wire cords are ungrounded and could result in safety hazards. Their use is forbidden in all convention facilities. Don’t leave home with them.
Use Timesaving Wiring Methods and a Distribution System
Whenever possible, and in conformance with the electrical code, use multi-conductor interconnecting cables with approved quick-connect plugs or fittings.
The following is a list of the plugs that match our equipment receptacles:
- 15 amp 120 volt: Standard U-ground plug
- 20 amp 208 volt 1Ø or 3Ø: Leviton 3521 plug or equivalent
- 60 amp 208 volt 1Ø or 3Ø: Daniel Woodhead Plug Y560P plug or equivalent
- 100 amp 208 volt 1Ø or 3Ø: Litton-Veam Plug CIR01GRH plug or equivalent
Exhibitors who require many standard outlets may choose to incorporate a power distribution system into their booth. Please contact our staff for more information. Labor is also required to inspect equipment pre-wired to plug into our system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where will my outlet be located?
There are four different types of trade show booths.
- Line Booths
- Peninsula Booths
- Back-to-Back Peninsula Booths
- Island Booths
Each type of booth has its own standard method of installation. In the following diagrams, the symbol [X] represents the approximate location of power outlets:
For Line Booths, Peninsula Booths, or Back-to-Back Peninsula Booths your pre-ordered electrical outlet will be installed to the rear of your booth at the perimeter.
For Island Booths, you will need to designate one location for each outlet you order. Multiple outlet locations will be charged on a labor and material basis. For facilities with power originating in the floor, your electrical outlet will be placed at one location at our discretion. All other distribution will be done on a time and materials basis. If you fail to provide us with a floor plan, we will bring your power to one location at our discretion.
How much power do I need?
Calculate your lighting needs by adding wattage in each location. For other equipment, read the ratings from the metal plates attached to each unit.