Guide for Events and Gatherings During COVID-19
While PA counties are transitioning into the green phase, there are still precautions that need to be taken to continue to prevent the spread of COVID-19. At Entertainment Unlimited , we understand that navigating these guidelines can be difficult, so we have put together a guide to help you plan your next event or gathering during COVID-19 in the green phase.
Planning Strategies You Can implement to Reduce the Spread
When planning your event, there are a variety of strategies you can implement to keep vendors and your guests safe. These strategies include:
- Encouraging guests to stay home if they are showing COVID-19 symptoms or have come into close contact with another person who has COVId-19 within the last 14 days.
- Consider offering a flexible refund policy for ticket or participation fees, so people who are sick or may be sick don’t feel obligated to go.
- Make sure soap, water, and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol are available for staff and attendees to wash their hands. Also, be sure to supply paper towels, tissues, disinfectant wipes, and cloth face covering as needed.
- Encourage staff and attendees to cover their coughs and sneezes and wash their hands often.
- Encourage staff and attendees to wear cloth face coverings and to practice social distancing of 6 feet between guests.
- Post signs throughout the event, near entrances and restrooms that remind people to properly wash their hands, wear a cloth face covering, and practice social distancing.
Keep the Event Environment Healthy
In addition to encouraging social distancing and following the recommended number of people at a gathering, there are a few other ways you can keep your event environment healthy, including:
Cleaning and Disinfecting
You will want to make sure frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, grab bars, hand railing, and sink handles are cleaned and disinfected often throughout the event. Shared objects such as tables, bars, counter-tops, and condiment holders should also be disinfected between uses.
You may also consider limiting the number of people allowed in the restroom at one time to allow for social distancing and do not allow crowds to form near the restroom without social distancing. Keep bathrooms functional, clean, and disinfected regularly throughout the event. Be sure to use EPA-approved disinfectants for COVID-19.
Change the Event Layout
You can modify your event layout by blocking off rows of seating to keep people at least 6ft apart. You can also either eliminate lines or use tape or chalk marks to help people maintain social distancing while in line. Consider utilizing outdoor areas and activities to make social distancing easier.
Another recommendation is for you to stagger the use of shared indoor spaces such as lounges or dining areas.
Keeping Food Safe
If you plan to offer food to your guests, use disposable food service items like dishes, utensils, and paper napkins. You may even consider single-serve condiment packets to avoid people having to share them. It is also recommended that you avoid offering a self-serve drink or food options like salad bars, buffets, or drink stations; instead, you could offer prepacked meals for your attendees.
Be Aware of the State and Local Regulations
Before hosting your event, it is important to learn about the policies in place locally or at the state level in relation to group gatherings to ensure you are following the recommended guidelines.
Professional Event Entertainment Services
At Entertainment Unlimited, we understand that this can be a difficult time to host an event, so we are here to help. When it comes to providing event entertainment for your Pittsburgh event, we will follow the CDC and Pennsylvania Health Department guidelines that are in place to ensure the safety of your guests. Contact us today to learn more about our entertainment options for your next event!
