The Live Events Industry During COVID-19
When the COVID-19 pandemic struck the United States in March, the live events industry was one of the hardest hit. Any event from large music festivals like Coachella, to smaller work conventions were cancelled. Now, 7 months into the global pandemic, certain businesses and industries have begun to open with new restrictions to slow the spread of the virus. The events industry has been slow to make a return, because of the nature of the industry. Large groups of people coming together in a space still seems unachievable in some capacity. However, there are guidelines and protocols that companies in the events industry are beginning to put into place that can make the return of live events a reality.
What guidelines are put in place for events during COVID?
The events industry has taken a close look at CDC guidelines for events and gatherings when looking at how live events can be held again during the COVID-19 pandemic. While mass testing for event attendees is not presently feasible, there are other guidelines that the CDC has recommended that event companies are taking into consideration. Some of these guidelines for employees, staff, and attendees include:
- Encouraging or enforcing personal prevention practices such as washing hands, wearing a mask, and maintaining a distance of at least 6 feet from those not in your household.
- Implementing environmental practices such as increased disinfection and cleaning of frequently touched places. Providing symptom checks upon entry, such as taking a person’s temperature, is also helpful.
- Educating and informing those attending and working the event of the risks of COVID-19, and what rules are in place to slow the spread of the virus.
In addition to these guiding principles, companies such as Choura have begun the process of developing their own strict guidelines for the return of live events. One additional precaution that Choura has begun to develop is the implementation of COVID-19 compliance officers at every live event. These staff members would be hired for the purpose of enforcing COVID-19 safety guidelines to ensure the safety of staff and attendees. This paired with the availability of rapid COVID-19 tests for staff and attendees could help bring back the live event industry prior to a widely accessible vaccine. Choura’s sister company, Lifeline Health, has already begun the distribution of FDA approved antigen testing, which can be a valuable resource for regathering at live events.
The Return of Events During COVID
While large scale events have not made a big return yet, companies such as Choura are actively looking for safe ways to help people gather again. Events during COVID-19 are going to look different, but they are possible with the right guidelines and precautions put in place. Choura has already held a few small events enforcing strict social distancing and face covering guidelines that have run smoothly and safely. To keep informed with the new advances Choura makes in bringing live events back safely, visit our website, or follow us on social media platforms. Gathering again safely, it’s what we’re working towards.
Sources:
https://www.cvent.com/en/blog/hospitality/safe-meetings-events
