With half the world under different stages of lockdown due to the Coronavirus, it has tested the caliber of even the most capable event managers. These talented and resourceful individuals are no stranger to handling disasters and last-minute crises where events are concerned.
To say that this current pandemic has affected businesses is an understatement. But of course, businesses and life have to go on. So how do you organize events and conferences while staying safe? Common sense and some smart decisions can make all the difference.
We offer some practical and commonsense solutions in this post.
Shift to virtual solutions
Most governments around the world have stay-at-home orders. This means that you cannot organize events in a physical location.
However, you can still execute conferences and mini-events using technology. Some of the best apps for conferencing and virtual events are Zoom and Cisco WebEx, among others. With social distancing becoming the norm, this is an excellent way to keep business going while saving yourself from potentially getting infected with the deadly virus.
Wear a mask
The efficacy of wearing masks in the containment and prevention of Coronavirus has divided experts all around the world. However, if the statistics of low infections in countries like South Korea are any indication, masks have been pivotal in keeping this virus infection low.
So if you have to organize an event or a conference during these precarious times, make sure that you and all attendees wear a mask. However, not all masks are effective in the crusade for COVID-19 prevention. According to experts, medical masks and N95 masks are the most effective for protection against Coronavirus.
Keep physical contact to a minimum
The Center for Disease Control reports that the droplets from the coughing and sneezing of a person with Coronavirus can be avoided by not engaging in physical contact. This means no shaking hands or hugging each other during the event or the conference.
Maintaining a distance of about 6 feet apart from each other is also paramount. It is because some persons who are infected with the virus can spread it even before he or she displays its symptoms.
If you are in the risk group or you have engaged in physical contact with someone you suspect might be a carrier, washing your hands for up to 20 seconds with soap and water is recommended. If you have access to a hand sanitizer, make use of it.