Event tents – whether we are talking about festivals, concerts, exhibitions, weddings, or conferences – have become a popular solution due to their flexibility and short setup time. However, these temporary structures are subject to specific risks, especially regarding fire safety.
To protect participants and staff, legislation in Romania imposes a series of clear and mandatory requirements, regulated by standards such as RTC 2-2022, P118-1/2025, and OMAI no. 180/2022.
Definition and Regulations
According to RTC 2-2022, a tent is a temporary structure whose membrane constitutes at least 75% of the envelope. It can be used for:
- shows and concerts,
- exhibitions and fairs,
- private or corporate events,
- sports activities,
- production or storage.
Important to note: even if it gathers a large number of people, the tent is not considered a crowded space, but remains a temporary structure with specific safety rules.
Materials and Structure
- Membrane (envelope):must have an appropriate fire reaction (class C-s2,d0 for small tents, B-s3,d0 for large ones).
- Load-bearing structure:for tents ≥1,500 m², the materials used must be from class A2-s1,d0 (high fire resistance).
- Annex structures and passages:the use of materials with a minimum fire reaction of B-s3,d0 is required.
Evacuation and safety of participants
Evacuation is one of the most critical aspects.
The regulations stipulate:
- minimumtwo evacuation routes, regardless of the number of people;
- the maximum length of the evacuation route:40 m;
- doors must open in the direction of evacuation (sliding doors are prohibited);
- photoluminescent signs and emergency lighting are mandatory.
Firefighting equipment
To reduce the risk of fire spread, tents must be equipped with:
- portable extinguishers (1 extinguisher 21A/300 m² and 2 additional extinguishers at the stage);
- PSI post (5 hose reels, 2 hooks, 1 axe, 1 membrane cutting device);
- fixed detection and signaling systems for large tents (>5,000 m²) and a network of hydrants or a water reserve for high-risk situations.
Installations and utilities
- Emergency lighting: minimum autonomy of 30 minutes;
- Heating: only through certified systems (radiant panels, electric heaters); the use of LPG cylinders or open flame stoves is prohibited;
- Ventilation: through natural draft or mobile systems;
- Generators: must be placed at least 6 m from the tent membrane.
Placement of tents
To reduce the risk of fire, tents must be placed at clear distances:
- tents <1,500 m²: at least 12 m from other buildings;
- tents ≥1,500 m²: at least 22 m;
- all tents: at least 40 m from pumps or fuel tanks.
Annex kitchens must be located at least 2 m from the membrane and 5 m from exits.
Operating rules
Inside and near the tents:
- smoking and the use of open flames are prohibited within 6 m of the membrane;
- fireworks are prohibited within 30 m;
- staff must be trained in the use of fire extinguishers and evacuation procedures.
The organizer has a legal obligation to obtain fire safety approval and authorization.
Access for emergency vehicles
Access routes must have:
- a minimum width of 4 m,
- a clear height of 4.5 m,
- a load capacity of at least 14 tons.
These must be secured for at least 25% of the perimeter of the tent.
Conclusions
Event tents, due to their temporary nature and the textile materials used, present ahigh fire risk.
Compliance with regulations is essential for:
- the use of appropriate materials;
- ensuring clear and safe evacuation routes;
- equipping with firefighting means;
- avoiding the use of open flames;
- facilitating firefighters' access in case of emergency.
The safety of participants is non-negotiable.Organizers, designers, and authorities must collaborate to make each event a safe and risk-free experience.
Do you want to find out what documentation is required for the ISU approval or authorization for event tents? Fill out the form below and we will help you organize your event safely.