We're thinking about adding a double deck to our exhibit space. What are some of the most common venue restrictions specific to this type of structure?

Double decks are a great way to add additional space to an exhibit footprint. But to make the most of this space – and not add unwanted headaches to your planning process – you need to bear in mind a few installation and venue requirements inherent to these structures. Here are three of the most common.
➤ Each city and venue has its own fire codes, but almost all of them mandate that some kind of fire-suppression system be included with double-deck structures. In the event of a fire, the space below the deck isn't impacted by the venue's overhead sprinkler system, so venues require some kind of additional apparatus for the lower level. Each city and venue, then, has its own square-footage rule regarding which structures merely require additional smoke detectors and fire-suppression apparatus and which require actual sprinkler systems. Some might also have restrictions as to what type of materials can be used to enclose the lower-level space. So you or your exhibit house will need to do some preliminary research to ascertain what type of suppression system and related materials are required at the shows in which you plan to exhibit.
➤ Just as too many people can collapse your home patio deck, there's a load limit (in terms of the number of bodies) allowed atop double decks. And just as with fire regulations, this limit varies city to city and venue to venue. So determine the regulations that affect your structure and plan your upper deck's activities – and its footprint – accordingly.
➤ Obviously every deck needs a single staircase so attendees can access the space. But as you increase the size and load limit of your deck, additional staircases may be required by various venues' fire codes. To verify how many staircases are necessary, you'll need to submit a set of structural plans to both the fire marshal and the show venue before the event.

Granted, these three stipulations can require extra planning, time, and perhaps even more money. But in many cases, a double deck is still a viable option to add prominence and space to your exhibit – allowing you to build up instead of out – and thereby sidestep the cost of renting additional show-floor concrete.