Event Planning
Trade Shows Risk Assessment Template
The complete guide to creating professional risk assessments for trade shows and exhibitions.
Free to use Instant PDF download Updated February 2026
The essential guide to trade show safety
Trade shows bring together exhibitors and visitors in large exhibition halls with temporary booth structures, heavy equipment, and constant foot traffic. These events require careful attention to stand construction, electrical safety, and crowd flow.
This guide covers everything you need to create a thorough trade show risk assessment—from booth setup and manual handling to fire safety, crowd management, and accessibility.
Event Safety
Event Safety
Activity Benefits
Why trade shows matter
Product Showcase
Offers a platform to showcase products and innovations.
Networking
Facilitates business networking and client acquisition.
Industry Knowledge
Drives industry awareness and knowledge sharing.
Marketing
Provides marketing and branding opportunities.
Risk Identification
Key hazards & control measures
Stand ConstructionHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Collapse, injuries from improperly constructed or secured booth structures.
Control Measures
- Approved contractors used
- Structure inspections completed
- Height and weight limits enforced
- Safety certificates obtained
Electrical HazardsHigh Risk
Potential Harm
Electric shock, fire from faulty installations or exposed wiring.
Control Measures
- PAT testing completed
- Qualified electricians used
- Cable management in place
- Overload prevention
Manual HandlingMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Back injuries, dropped items from lifting heavy exhibition materials.
Control Measures
- Mechanical aids available
- Team lifting for heavy items
- Clear delivery schedules
- PPE provided
Crowd FlowMedium Risk
Potential Harm
Overcrowding in aisles, restricted movement, trip hazards.
Control Measures
- Aisle widths maintained
- Clear signage throughout
- Capacity monitoring
- No obstructions in walkways
This guide covers the most common hazards. Our risk assessment wizard includes 34 hazards and 91+ control measures for Trade Shows, sourced from industry guidance — create your assessment in minutes.
Safety Checklist
Trade show safety checklist
Stand Setup
- Structure approved
- Electrical tested
- Fire extinguisher placed
- Exit routes clear
Logistics
- Delivery times confirmed
- Loading bay booked
- Storage arranged
- PPE available
Visitors
- Registration system ready
- Signage in place
- Accessibility considered
- Staff briefed
Safety
- Fire plan shared
- First aid located
- Emergency contacts known
- Insurance confirmed
Ready to create your trade show risk assessment?
Use our step-by-step wizard to generate a professional risk assessment in minutes.
