RECOMMENDATION
Every forty (40) feet (12.2 m) of exhibit perimeter wall should be followed by an opening of at least five (5) feet (1.5 m) to permit unhindered trade access into and out of the exhibit. The opening should not be less than five (5) feet deep and should allow unrestricted movement, by some path, to at least one other side of the exhibit. The opening should not be closed, reduced, or obstructed by door panels, posts, draperies, gates, railings, chains, counters, furniture or other barriers. Fascia headers that span the opening should allow for at least eighty (80) inches of clearance from the floor. This recommendation applies only to exhibit walls along a show aisle.

INTENT
Fire and safety considerations require access on each aisle side where more than 40 feet of wall is possible. Courtesy also demands that neighboring exhibits not be blocked or obscured beyond these limits. Your exhibit, and your neighbor's, should enjoy an approach path every 40 feet, or less.

PMA COMMENT
Strong trade and exhibitor sentiment continues to favor “open” exhibit design, few perimeter barriers, and maximum access to and from all surrounding aisles. “Blind” walls and fortress exhibits discourage your trade customers from entering. Open, unconfining exhibits make PMA members more likely to visit and make the friendliest impression. Any perimeter wall of any length deserves to be finished attractively, preferably with your company I.D. and a display of your products. PMA will insist that blank walls be finished (not merely draped), and be adequately decorated. Consider displays of photography for aisle walls.