Q. Re: in-person events. We want to have an idea what the industry standards are for who should be required to ask attendees to keep their masks on and other CDC rules. Should it be the association staff or the staff of the event space? Any input would be greatly appreciated.

 

A. Rule of thumb: The event organizer can impose stricter Covid safety protocols than what the Federal, State, County, City governments and the venue management demand, but not less.

To help attract attendees, we are planning on being more conservative and requiring masks, use of hand sanitizers, and social spacing (where it makes sense for the event) so attendees feel we have their safety in mind. The policing of these protocols is the responsibility of association staff, using the venue staff and externally hired staff to activate. Issue resolution is the association staff role, at least that is how we are planning.

 

Phelps R. Hope, CMP | Senior Vice President, Meetings & Expositions phope@kellencompany.com