The Centre for Exhibition Industry Research (CEIR) recently hosted a webinar titled ‘Event Health and Safety: Navigating the Future with Proven Risk Management Strategies,’ emphasizing the importance of prioritizing health, security, and safety considerations as winter approaches.
Nancy Drapeau, VP of Research at CEIR, highlighted the increased anxiety among trade show attendees and exhibitors, citing findings from the 2023 Edelman Trust Barometer. The webinar also featured insights from John Cordier, CEO of Epistemix, a software company specializing in disease simulations and policy information.
Cordier outlined various mitigation strategies for event organizers based on the data and the year’s timing. These strategies include adjusting measures like masks, vaccinations, tests, and social distancing based on the specific audience and potential risk factors. He stressed the importance of considering immune-compromised individuals in health and safety planning, aligning with Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives.
Situational awareness was highlighted as a crucial aspect of risk management, involving the analysis of past data to forecast different scenarios. Cordier also emphasized the importance of clear and concise communication in risk management. Simplifying messages with data visualizations ensures stakeholders promptly understand crucial information, reducing confusion.
Additionally, Cordier addressed short-term risks for events, including increased globalization, climate concerns, and issues in the food supply chain. Mental health, disruptions like African swine fever in food chains, and seasonal variations in respiratory diseases, such as flu, COVID-19, and RSV, were identified as potential challenges. The overall message was for event planners to remain vigilant, adapt risk management strategies to specific situations, and effectively communicate measures to stakeholders for a successful and inclusive event experience.
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