PSAV MeetSAFE Guidelines Complement GBAC STAR Accreditation for Event Facilities
May 28, 2020
Earlier this month, the Global Biorisk Advisory Council announced the GBAC STAR facility accreditation, which establishes protocols, procedures and systems for event facilities like convention centers to help control risk associated with infectious agents, such as COVID-19. Complementing that accreditation is a new set of guidelines from event experience company PSAV that is designed to be part of a system to help event venues adapt to the changing landscape for meetings and events.
MeetSAFE, announced earlier this month, is a set of tools focused on redesigning events to deliver on the strategic goals of meetings and events while defining new guidelines to minimize risk and promote health. Being able to convene safely will be the first priority of all planning activities going forward, as the ability to conduct in-person meetings will be dependent on making people feel safe in any setting, according to PSAV officials.
“Our industry has more to consider when planning live events in the future,” said Ben Erwin, president of PSAV. “While there has been an explosion of virtual events due to today’s environment, we know there will be a time when both hybrid and fully live meetings will return.”
He continued, “People feel a strong desire for face-to-face interactions, so we wanted to be proactive and offer guidance on how they can ensure important live meetings and events are productive, but also safe at the same time.”
These new MeetSAFE guidelines cover four key areas: event design, room layout and traffic flow, technology enhancements and cleaning guidelines. With input from venue partners, event planners and leading industry associations, the new guidelines include meeting formats, technology tools and other recommendations that outline paths around how the event industry could re-open during the early phases of recovery.
Events Industry Council has applauded PSAV for its efforts in launching MeetSAFE. “We are encouraged and inspired by the work we are seeing in all segments and regions to address today’s challenge and adapt for the future,” said Amy Calvert, EIC’s CEO.
Additionally, EIC’s APEX COVID-19 Business Recovery Task Force is focused on curating and sharing accepted practices across the global events ecosystem. Calvert says the organization will include MeetSAFE’s tool in that work.
Partner Voices
MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.
At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:
Protecting Natural Resources
MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.
Committed to Community
Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.
MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.
Fostering Diversity & Inclusion
To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.
MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.
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