Many states have started returning to pre-pandemic conditions that allowed large gatherings and events. However, to say that these are post-pandemic events is a misnomer. The pandemic is still a reality that could lead to large get-togethers causing a cluster of Covid infections.

Undoubtedly, returning to a semblance of pre-pandemic normalcy is imperative after more than a year and a half of isolation and an unprecedented shift in how we do things. Therefore, while large events are necessary, organizers should be cognizant of these tips to ensure that their gatherings remain safe and enjoyable.

1. Follow public health regulations

States and local authorities have differentiated their Covid reactions, so organizers need to know what public health regulations govern gatherings in their area to ensure compliance. A failure to adhere to protocols could result in fines and other punitive measures.

As the virus and its infection waves keep changing, regulations may change at short notice. Claiming ignorance of such amendments will not be regarded as a defense against failing to adhere to them.

While regulations might not mandate it, many organizers insist on Seattle event testing for Covid from Drip Hydration, Covid Clinic, Event Scan, and Global 7 Diagnostics. Covid testing for events can ensure that participants do not cause a virus outbreak. These companies offer PCR, rapid PCR, and rapid antigen tests.

2. Setting the rules

Once organizers know about public health guidelines informing how they conduct an event, they should communicate these regulations with potential attendees. Leaving the communication of these rules until people arrive at the event is not advised. Some might object to them and not wish to attend, becoming angry and frustrated due to a lack of information.

With a set guest list, such as for a wedding, the organizer can contact these attendees in person. For mass gatherings, such as concerts and sports matches, organizers should take to social media to stipulate what rules apply to their event.

Some rules might be added in addition to current regulations, which set out a minimum standard. For example, organizers might wish to take additional precautions to protect their guests, such as mandatory mask-wearing. To sweeten the pot, they could offer attendees custom masks to mask the occasion.

3. Think outdoors

As winter approaches, more events move indoors, posing a greater risk of causing a Covid outbreak. A lack of fresh air circulating through indoor venues in addition to limited space makes anti-Covid precautions like social distancing challenging.

Hosting events outdoors also runs the risk of inclement weather that could derail the occasion. However, organizers should explore as many outdoor options as possible as this remains one of the safest ways for people to gather in large numbers. Setting up fire pits, portable heaters, and providing hot beverages can help stave off the cold.

Once organizers explain the benefits of an outdoor event, attendees will be prepared to don a few extra layers to enjoy an event that boosts their physical and mental health and reduces the chance of contracting Covid.

4. Hygiene

Another known cause of Covid outbreaks is poor hand hygiene. The virus lingers on surfaces after people touch them, making it easy for transmission to others. Common surfaces, such as bathroom doors, taps, and toilet flushers, need constant cleaning and sanitizing to kill any viral cells that remain there.

Strict hand hygiene rules, including supplying sanitizer, should remain in force throughout an event. Signage reminding guests of their responsibility to keep their hands clean will keep the matter at the forefront of their minds.

Event staff requires additional training on maintaining stringent hygiene protocols, such as frequent cleaning and sanitizing surfaces, as well as ensuring guests have what they need to keep their hands clean and virus-free.

5. Catering

Until Covid is essentially eradicated, self-service buffet-style meals should not be a consideration for events. They can cause a virus outbreak with so many people touching utensils and exhaling close to the food.

However, organizers could hire serving staff to work behind Perspex screens serving the food, minimizing the chances of Covid transmission. They should also prepare menus packed with healthy food to promote enhanced immunity.

Most organizers prefer to err on the side of caution, offering guests pre-served meals in sealed packaging. This extends to beverages only being served in sealed cans and bottles to minimize how many people touch them.

Have you planned any post-pandemic events?

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