Short definition
The Assembly Venue Ordinance regulates the structural and operational safety of event venues with large numbers of visitors – covering escape routes, fire protection, and installations.
Detailed explanation
The Assembly Venue Ordinance is German state law – each federal state has its own version, typically based on the model ordinance (MVStättVO). It applies to larger assembly venues and sets out how rooms, routes, and equipment must be designed so everyone can exit safely in an emergency.
This is relevant for meeting and interpreting technology because installations can't be placed just anywhere: interpreting booths, cable routes, stages, and equipment areas must keep escape routes clear, meet fire protection requirements, and are sometimes signed off by a responsible person (event manager, safety officer). Placing booths in the middle of a corridor or running cables across escape routes quickly violates the ordinance. Good planning accounts for these requirements from the start.
Relevance in this subject area
Safety takes priority over technology. Anyone placing interpreting booths and equipment needs to know the Assembly Venue Ordinance – otherwise conditions, rework, or in the worst case a ban may follow.
Practical example
For a conference with 600 guests, four interpreting booths are planned. The setup plan is arranged so all escape routes stay clear – coordinated in advance with the venue operator and event management.
Related terms
Event technology, Interpreting booth, Meeting technology, Maintenance (conference technology), TED voting system