COVID-19 Measures for Events

The event industry is one of the hardest hit by the Coronavirus crisis, but as restrictions are being lifted in some destinations, larger gatherings are now being permitted. So, how will corporate events look in a post-lock-down world? With Covid-19 still being a risk, many venues will have COVID-19 policies and procedures when we return to face-to-face meetings.

Additional Cleaning

Hotels and venues around the world are developing new cleaning protocols for the cleaning of their properties. The cleaning of shared items such as door handles, restrooms and so on, will be increased in hotels and venues with the removal of some items that were cleaned less frequently such as scatter pillows.

Communications

There will be additional information provided to delegates before attending events. Communicating key messages that remind delegates of COVID-19 prevention measures such as washing their hands regularly, wearing a mask, social distancing, and avoiding handshaking. Event organisers will also provide additional venue information prior to the event. This will include the venue layout, hand sanitisation point locations, and even what time delegates can use different common spaces to avoid overcrowding.

Food and Beverage

Some venues and hotels have already announced that mini-bars will be locked, room service will be delivered to the room door only and buffets will be a thing of the past. Lunch and tea & coffee breaks may become staggered with push notifications on event apps to notify attendees of their allocated time slot.

COVID-19 Risk Reduction Plan

Each event’s risk assessment plan will now include a COVID-19 section. The World Health Organisation has published its key planning recommendations for event organisers when organising an event. The plan will generally assess:

1. The host country’s existing regulations on mass gatherings.
2. Consideration for the likelihood of the event contributing to the spread of COVID-19
3. The ability to implement actions that can reduce the spread of COVID-19 at the event.

This will include input from other relevant authorities and public health bodies. in the event management process with an event safety manager being appointed in some cases.

Face-to-face meetings are an important aspect of business and when we can meet again we will need to take precautions. More than ever, using an experienced venue sourcing and event management team can help you ensure COVID-19 measures are included in the management of your event.