The end of all Covid-19 restrictions in England is without a doubt a positive step for our industry . Live events and exhibitions are back in full swing and event organisers and suppliers are gearing up for an incredibly busy few months ahead .
But while there are no legal obstacles standing in our way anymore , Covid-19 has not gone away , and some delegates may understandably still have concerns about returning to live environments .
Creating a positive visitor experience will be paramount to enticing audiences back to exhibitions . There is increased pressure to stand out and make live events more immersive and engaging , with organisers turning to the latest cutting-edge technologies and tools to enhance interactivity and networking opportunities .
But there is no point in investing in all the bells and whistles if you don ’ t get the basics right . If attendees don ’ t feel safe , they will remember that , and not the great experience that the organisers have strived for .
One positive to come out of the pandemic has been the renewed focus on health and safety . We have all learned a great deal over these past two years , and it remains vital that the entire event supply chain continue to demonstrate the highest of health and safety standards to boost public confidence and put organisers and delegates ’ minds at ease .
Working with safetyconscious and accredited suppliers who take care of those all-important basics allows organisers to focus
Why health and safety is key to creating a great attendee experience
Andrew Harrison , of the Event Supplier and Services Association ( ESSA ), explores why it ’ s essential to get the basics right to ensure visitors have a great experience and remember your exhibition for the right reasons
their attentions on making their event extra special and creating the best possible visitor experience .
Health and safety are a key focus for ESSA – we recently launched the ESSA Individual Induction , a series of bite-sized induction courses that cover a range of safety-related areas to provide a key understanding of different health and safety requirements when working at an exhibition or event .
Andrew Harrison
From Risk Assessment and Health & Safety Law to Electrical Safety and Environmental Awareness ,
each short module provides a clear and concise understanding of why certain rules are in place , the requirements needed to follow them and how individuals can help make exhibition halls a safer and more efficient place .
This training enables members to put the steppingstones in place towards ultimately achieving ESSA Accredited status – a robust and independently audited company-level qualification . We have seen strong interest and take up of the scheme , which demonstrates a readiness and understanding from our supplier and service provider members of the importance of health and safety .
Organisers and venues working with ESSA members to support their next exhibition can rest assured that they are working with companies that take health and safety seriously , giving them that all important peace of mind . And with peace of mind comes the freedom to go back to doing what they do best – delivering outstanding experiences that will live long in the memories of attendees , for the right reasons . EN
April — 49