Safe Exhibiting Guide

8 Materials and Cleaning

In addition to robust disinfections before and after each day of the show, exhibitors will want to frequently decontaminate high-touch surfaces such as kiosks, tables, and chairs throughout the event. To make the process easier and more efficient, carefully consider the stand’s materials and finishes. When possible, opt for hard, nonporous finishes. “Surfaces such as laminates, Sintra, rolled vinyl floors, and nonfabric seating will be easiest to maintain on a frequent basis,” says Jennifer Bly, director of account management for Jack Morton Worldwide Inc. No matter what program managers opt for in their booths — wood, fabric, vinyl, or metal — IAEE’s white paper suggests using approved systems for decontaminating them, such as electrostatic sprayers and High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) vacuums. There are hundreds of cleaners that have been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that are effective against COVID-19. But Dr. Brian Labus, an assistant professor in the department of epidemiology and biostatistics at the Univer sity of Nevada-Las Vegas’ School of Public Health, warns that most of these are generally not effective when they are sprayed on and immediately wiped off. “Be sure the sterilizing agents remain on the surface for the minimum amount of time indicated on the cleanser’s directions,” Labus says. And don’t be discreet when it comes to disinfecting your space. Recent surveys by the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) indicate that attendees like to see the process taking place as it reassures them sanitization is being taken seriously.

7 Booth Staffing

Because of travel uncer tainty, program managers should adjust staffing practices. “Brands often fly in their favorite am bassadors to the show city,” Capano says. “That’s not going to be happening as much with ongoing travel restrictions.” Experts recommend relying on local talent when possi ble and limiting in-booth personnel. Also, consider creating rotating pods of staffers that always work together to limit poten tial exposure to isolated working groups. That way, if someone hap pens to test positive at the show, you can quar antine that individual’s working group rather than your entire team.

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