1. The referee must check the dimensions and the quality of the boundary lines prior to the start of a match. The first referee must check the dimensions of the court. Should an irregularity be noticed, the referees must immediately point it out and ensure that it is corrected. The referees must check:
1.1. Whether the lines are exactly 5 cm wide (no more and no less)
1.2. The length of the lines and diagonals (12.73 m each) on both courts (See Diagram 13)
1.3. That the colour of the lines contrasts from the colours of the court and the free zone
2. Check that the free zone measures at minimum 3.0 m at the back of the court up to the advertising barriers (Rule 1.1). Exact measurement at the back of the court should be 6.5 m. As well, ensure that at minimum the free zone on the sides of the court is 3 m. Exact measure at the sides of the court is 5 m up to the score table or advertising panels. Then benches should be positioned farther back than the score table to ensure a complete free zone.
3. Official warm-up areas are to be designated before the match begins. Warm-up areas are to be 3m x 3m and are to be located in the bench side corners of the playing area, outside the free zone (Diagram 1a in the VC Rulebook)