The premier edition of IELA CONNECT took place in Shanghai on October 15th at the JW Marriott Hotel, Shanghai. Strengthening the relationship between the stakeholders of the exhibition industry at a local scale and reinforcing safety and security standards were the key elements of the new event. Local networking events are essential to build the bridge between all industry partners. 33 delegates from 15 countries joined the 1st edition, among them were key associations, organisers and venue operators. On this occasion IELA launched its security guidelines. Security and OH&S standards were discussed to work together for a safer and more secure exhibition industry. Since 2015, IELA has emphasized safety and security through multiple initiatives. These initiatives bring exhibition venues, show organisers and service providers together to share best practices and establish standards of occupational health & safety as well as security for the entire industry.
Vicki Bedi, IELA, Chairman said, “Releasing the IELA Security Guidelines is a great honor for our Association and a demonstration, once again, of the mission of our members to deliver beyond our Standards of Performance. We extend our sincerest gratitude to Dominique Geiser, Chairman of the IELA Standards and Customs Working Group, Simon Garrett, Managing Director, X-Venture Global Risk Solution and Jim Kelty, member of the IELA Board of Management for sharing their considerable expertise and time to develop the IELA Security Guidelines.” Dominique Geiser highlighted, “This initiative of IELA steers our industry in the right direction to advance its efforts to face any unexpected circumstances in our daily workplace, whether on-site or in the office. More importantly, IELA shows that the well-being of not only its members but also other exhibition professionals, visitors etc. is at the forefront of our concerns as they are confronted on a daily basis by high risks.
In being prepared on all eventualities and working in accordance with the IELA Security Guidelines, IELA’s OH&S Guidelines and our Standards of Performance, IELA members will once again differentiate themselves from the crowd as a trusted partner for organisers in the exhibitions industry worldwide.”
The next edition of IELA CONNECT will take place in October, 2019. The core topic next year will be SUSTAINABILITY.
