COVID 19 Compliant Event Staff – Welcoming the Return of Events, Exhibitions & Trade Shows

Like many industries, trade shows, exhibitions and other marketing events were hit hard by the pandemic and lockdown. What is clear is that with the virus still hanging around, events such as these will look different for some months to come. It also means that promotional staff will need to work differently.

COVID compliance means that all the necessary steps are being taken in that event or place to keep everyone as safe as possible. From social distancing to supplying hand sanitiser, to welcome people safely, venues will have to make changes. Promotional staff will also have to alter the way they work but the good news is, these changes are easy to make. And they won’t interfere with promoting a brand, generating leads or closing sales.

COVID secure measures

• Risk assessments

The Health and Safety Executive has issued a range of advice, updated regularly, relating to risk assessments and health and safety. Bearing in mind that advice will change over the coming weeks and months, our promotional staffing teams will follow the latest guidance and risk assessments as per HSE guidelines.

• Handwashing and sanitising

We all know the importance of washing our hands more frequently and for longer. Promotional staff will be issued with best practice guidance on hand washing and the correct use of hand sanitiser, and when both are needed. In some instances, a handwash log may be used.

• Deep cleaning

Trade shows and exhibitions can be busy places and so keeping the stand clean and sanitised will be an additional skill that promotional staff will need to effectively demonstrate. Trained in the safe use of cleansing wipes and other products, promotional staff will keep the stand clean, uncluttered and tidy throughout the event.

• Supply of PPE

There may be exhibitions and trade shows where the use of PPE may be required. If this is the case, promotional staff will be trained in its effective use. Their PPE kit could include masks and gloves, for example, as well as hand sanitiser. Sanitiser could be for their own use or for use by people who visit the stand.

• Social distancing measures

Maintaining a distance of 2 metres is known to be an effective barrier against transmission of the virus. People will try hard to maintain this distance, but it can be difficult when spaces become crowded. Floor tape, floor signs as well as wall signs can be helpful reminders to maintain distance.

• No-touch thermometers

Many employers are using no-touch thermometers to help maintain safety at work. It may be that this technology is used at trade shows and events. A common system in place, promotional staff wouldn’t be expected to ‘test’ visitors to the stand but to be aware of the symptoms of the virus and look out for them in their own health.

• Regular staff health check-ins

Clearly, the most important aspect of all the new way of doing things is to check in on our promotional staff. This isn’t just about looking out for physical symptoms of the virus but to check in on their mental health too. The recent pandemic has affected people in many different ways and whilst we are all having to find a new way of working, it is not unusual to find some people still struggling emotionally.

We are living and working in a time that feels strange and alien. Some aspects are positive, just as there are negatives but as we get back to working face-to-face with clients and customers, taking these precautions is a sensible and effective solution.

If you have any questions regarding our COVID 19 Compliant Event Staff call us on 0844 800 0071.