Booth Labor, Freight, Electrical, Stagehands
First things first, Chicago has seen some recent shifts in union regulations at McCormick Place and the Navy Pier. The Decorators Union, Local 510, oversees installation and dismantle labor, presenting some unique considerations. Here’s the rundown:
- Crew assignments for jobs at MPEA facilities (McCormick Place and the Navy Pier) are now based on the size of the task, unlike the past when any use of equipment required a full crew. However, keep in mind that even genie lifts must be operated by a Teamster, making them less cost-effective.
- Carpenters and Decorators have merged into a Unified Labor Force for Display Labor at the Navy Pier and McCormick Place. This unified force can handle a range of tasks, including uncrating exhibits, installing and dismantling exhibit materials, flooring, non-electric signs, and hanging fabric.
- Teamsters take the lead on freight, excluding machinery. Machinists handle machinery assembly and leveling, while Riggers handle uncrating, unskidding, positioning, re-skidding, and cleaning of all machinery.
- In-booth work has seen significant changes. There’s now more flexibility for Show Managers and Exhibitors to perform various tasks within their booths, including setting up and dismantling exhibits, assembling/disassembling materials and machinery, installing signs, graphics, and more. The limitations on booth size have been lifted, and exhibitors can use their own ladders and tools.
Electrical
Electricians take the helm for all things electrical, from assembly to installation and dismantling. They handle wiring, hook-ups, electrical signs, and audio-visual equipment. Exhibitors can plug in their own devices, provided they aren’t high voltage. Plumbing is managed in-house.
Utility Services
McCormick Place has changed its approach to billing for electrical services, and for services smaller than 208 Volts, there’s no labor charge for installation or removal. For larger services, charges are based on actual labor used.
Other Recent Charges
McCormick Place has adopted money-saving rules, such as billing straight-time rates for work between 6 am and 8 am on weekdays and allowing show organizers to tape seminars or speeches without the need for a union electrician.
Hours
Working Hours: 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, Monday through Friday
Overtime: Overtime is applicable after 8 consecutive hours of work.
Double Time: Double time is implemented after 8 hours of overtime.
These details provide a framework for the standard working hours and the corresponding overtime policies. Additionally, specific time windows may have different rates, offering flexibility and potential cost reductions for exhibitors. Please note that variations might occur, and it’s recommended to be aware of the specific details relevant to your contractor or event. These changes apply to various unions at McCormick Place, including Electricians, Decorators, Plumbers, Riggers, Carpenters, and Teamsters.
