Insider Magazine has reported on an initiative by Katrina Cinus, Conference & Events Manager at University of South Wales, on new ways to run business events, meetings and conferences – post Covid.
In Wales, an Event Industry Advisory Group was set up in April to report to the Welsh Government regarding the development of new guidelines.
Their suggestions for hosting safe meetings can be briefly summarized as follows:
Event organisers and/or venues are responsible for Track & Trace through online registration systems for event delegates and staff
Event organisers and/or venues must prepare a Covid-19 risk assessment for each event
The venue is responsible for Covid-19 social distancing measures for each event
Visit Britain has developed the ‘We’re Good to Go’ accreditation. All venues must sign up to confirm they are ready post-Covid. (https://goodtogo.visitbritain.com/your-business-good-to-go-wales)
All event delegates must adhere to social distancing of two metres – in line with venue capacity. Event furniture must also be two metres apart
Event organisers should increase the use of digital technology to minimise queues at registration (staggered arrival times), self-printing of delegate badges, encourage online event delegates
Venues must be thoroughly cleaned before, during, and after each event
Event organisers must monitor delegate flow and organise appropriate solutions for visitor traffic including: one-way systems, separation screens, one-in-one-out systems in small spaces, and the event’s social distancing at all times
Food and beverages should be pre-packed or in closed containers
Hand sanitisation stations must be available at the venue
Face masks/face coverings must be worn within the venue
No handshakes, cwtches, or business card exchanges should be permitted