2.06 Marquee Structure

The marquee structure suitability for an event will be proven by the maximum wind loading and the maximum permissible imposed loadings shall be proven by long established use or by structural calculation by a structural engineer.

Additionally the following shall apply:

i. New fabrics for marquee structures are to be inherently or durably flame retarded when tested to BS 7837: 1996

ii. All lining materials are to comply with British Standard 5867: part 2, fabric type B, the specification for fabrics for curtains and drapes.

iii. The marquee is to be erected by a competent person and must not readily collapse when exposed to fire.

iv. Some floor coverings may react in fire to produce large amounts of heat and smoke, although the rate of surface spread of flame may be relatively slow. The environment may also have a significant effect on the burning behaviour of materials, as wind can cause a fire to spread more rapidly. It can also blow smoke into escape routes and adversely affect the means of escape.

v. The most appropriate fire test for reusable floor coverings is BS 4790. Such flooring should comply with the low radius of effect of ignition in Table 1 of BS 5287 (specifically for assessment and labelling of textile floor coverings tested to BS 4790). Disposable floor coverings, which are through necessity lightweight, may not meet the performance specification in BS 5287. Nevertheless, such material may be accepted for a single use inside a marquee or tent provided that it falls within one of the classifications in BS 5287 and the flame spread time does not exceed 52 mm per minute.

vi. Where the marquee is provided for the purpose of public entertainment, the Local Authority, as the Licensing Authority, will require the production of a Certificate showing compliance with one of the above standards.