When the pandemic hit, live and in-person events were one of the hardest-hit industries, leaving many of us anticipating the long-awaited return to normalcy. Fortunately, the distribution of vaccines has allowed many states to ease their restrictions and increase venue capacity limits, thus enabling a safe return to our beloved concerts, exhibits, trade shows, conventions, and more.
However, keep in mind that attending these in-person events is not without their risks. We encourage you to stay updated with the latest news regarding COVID-19 and transmission rates within your community before hosting or attending an in-person event. Here are some tips to ensure you and your attendees remain as safe as possible while still enjoying all that in-person events have to offer.
Reduce attendance.
Consider reducing the total number of attendees at your event to provide enough space for everyone to move freely without bumping into each other. Some venues have been operating at 50% to 75% capacity, but we recommend checking your state’s guidelines as they can vary from state to state.
Span the event out in multiple days.
To give every single attendee a chance to visit your event, span it out between two or more days. You can set a specific capacity for each day so that the venue does not become overcrowded on a single day. Multi-day events are also a great way to attract newcomers due to the flexibility of deciding which day to attend.
Incorporate sanitation stands.
Sanitation stands are found just about everywhere these days and have become the new norm. To mitigate germs from spreading, place sanitation stands throughout the venue so that no matter where you’re located, one is always easily accessible.
Consider vaccine-only events.
For maximum safety, you can opt for a vaccine-only event that will grant entrance strictly to attendees who have been fully vaccinated. They must bring their vaccination cards for proof of status, and event staff must check them thoroughly.
Enforce the use of face masks.
If you’d prefer to open your event up to both vaccinated and non-vaccinated attendees, you can impose a face mask requirement. This mandate will ensure the health and safety of every single attendee in the venue, whether vaccinated or not.
Administer temperature screenings.
For non-vaccine-only events, you can choose to administer temperature screenings before allowing attendees into the venue. This precaution will guarantee that anyone showing signs of fever will not be allowed in for the sake of everyone else’s health and safety.
Require proof of a negative COVID-19 test.
For those who have not been vaccinated against COVID-19, ask them to provide proof of a recent negative COVID-19 test. Those who choose not to abide should not be able to enter the premises to keep the rest of your attendees safe.
Become GBAC STAR accredited.
To give your attendees peace of mind, consider applying for the GBAC STAR Accreditation. This program ensures that venues have the correct procedures in place to prepare, respond, and recover from a COVID-19 outbreak. Comprehensive training on protocol, proper disinfection techniques, and cleaning best practices are all included in this program. For more information on the GBAC STAR Accreditation, please click here.
Proper preparation and research are critical to safely returning to events in a COVID world. Remember to stay up to date on transmission rates within your community and official guidelines from the CDC before deciding to step out. Taking these precautions will enable you to have the best time possible!
Are you looking to plan an event or exhibition? One of our expert marketing consultants can provide a complimentary brainstorm and evaluation session to find out how we can help you. Let’s talk!
