Today marks the activation of Step 3 of the Government’s roadmap out of lockdown in England!
What does this mean for live events?!
Are conferences, meetings and exhibitions allowed?
From today, most events will resume in some capacity. Business events such as conferences, tradeshows, exhibitions, charity auctions, and private dining events such as charity or gala dinners and awards ceremonies, and corporate hospitality are all permitted.
What capacity restrictions are in place?
Indoor events for up 1,000 people or 50% venue capacity, not including staff, contractors or exhibitors, can now happen.
Outdoor events for up to 4,000 (or 50% capacity) may also resume.
Do people need to be Covid-19 tested or show a vaccination certificate (Covid-status certification)?
No, not at this stage. While the Government has said it is exploring the potential use of ‘Covid-secure status’, the decision to require a mandatory negative Covid-19 test rests firmly with individual organisers. The Government only says: “consider pre-attendance screening.”
What about social distancing?
For all events from 17th May, social distancing rules must be followed.
The Government suggests reviewing meeting rooms and seating areas to ensure they allow social distancing. Space out chairs and tables to meet social distancing requirements and discourage close face-to-face interaction between guests.
Ensure that meeting rooms are cleaned thoroughly between users and the frequent touch points such as door handles and surfaces are continuously kept clean through an event.
The Government also says organisers and venues should consider ways to manage groups of visitors, for example splitting delegates into smaller groups to manage entry and exit and staggered lunch or break times.
What about face coverings or masks?
There is no clear guidance on the use of face coverings across all the different settings, but it stands to reason that that they are expected to be worn while moving around (indoor) venues, and can be removed once seated, similar to that of working in an office.
However, the guidance says organisers should avoid situations which encourage people to raise their voices, as this increases transmission risk. Where possible, use microphones (cleaned between users) for communicating to larger groups. You can also use static microphones (rather than roving microphones which are passed between people) for delegates to ask questions, which should be cleaned between users.
What about catering?
From 17th May, catering can also be provided for permitted events, such as business events and private dining.
Information from UK Government via Conference News
