As part of our preparation to ensure the safety of attendees at our in-person events, AusIMM will be implementing COVID- Safe initiatives across four key areas.

1. Physical distancing

• Physical distancing will align with the state and venue density limits and maintain a minimum square metre distance per attendee
• Implementing a one-way traffic flow, with a dedicated entrance and exits
• Encourage other forms of communication to prohibit certain actions like handshakes or high-fives that are common at many events but could facilitate the spread of COVID-19

2. Hygiene and cleaning

• Increased hygiene practices and sanitising stations across the venue
• Work with the venue to provide instructions on proper hand hygiene onsite at events
• Introduce contactless processes, such as QR code scanning for name badges at registration and implement the reduction of high touch materials such as delegate bags and printed programs
• Work with venues on increased cleaning and sanitation of high touch point items and shared amenities
• Service of food and beverage to be closely monitored by venue staff

3. Record keeping

• Implementation and management of contact tracing
• Require attendees to provide contact details via state-based contract tracing app (if required)
• As per Terms and Conditions, there is to be no sharing of registrations or name badges to enable AusIMM to provide accurate COVID reporting to relevant authorities

4. Wellbeing of attendees

• Seek advice from and collaborate with local authorities and public health officials for current COVID-19 restrictions and recommendations
• Provide resources prior to the event that detail the signs and symptoms of COVID-19 to educate potential attendees
• If attendees have any symptoms of COVID-19 or are unwell in any way, we ask that they please follow Government advice, which is to get tested and stay home to quarantine until they are advised otherwise
• Ask attendees to reconsider their attendance at the event if they have been diagnosed with COVID-19, or had direct contact with an individual diagnosed with or suspected to have COVID-19 in the past 14 days, including those that have recently travelled to a COVID-19 hot spot (interstate or overseas)
• Introduction of flexible refund policies, considering COVID-19 restrictions
• Offer signage outlining face coverings and/or other personal protective equipment rules, physical distancing requirements, and other COVID-19 specific requirements

For the latest advice and information, please visit the Department of Health’s website.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact the AusIMM events team at conference@ausimm.com.