A step forward toward a safer and more secure exhibition and events industry was taken in Shanghai recently, when IELA presented its new Security Guidelines document during its inaugural IELA CONNECT event.
IELA, the International Exhibition Logistics Association, has presented its new IELA Security Guidelines during IELA CONNECT 2018, in Shanghai.
IELA reports that 33 delegates from 15 countries joined the first edition of its IELA CONNECT, held at the JW Marriott Hotel Shanghai Tomorrow Square, and included key associations, organisers and venue operators.
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, the association says.
IELA has emphasised safety and security through multiple initiatives which have brought exhibition venues, show organisers, and service providers together to share best practices and establish standards of occupational health and safety, as well as security for the entire industry.
Mr Vicki Bedi, IELA Chairman, says: “Releasing the IELA Security Guidelines is a great honour 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.”
Geiser adds: “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, with a core topic being Sustainabilty.
IELA is currently represented by 171 members and 32 affiliates in 55 countries.
Photo, L-R: Evan Li from UFI China Office, Xianjin Chen from the Shanghai Convention & Exhibition Industries Association, Vicki Bedi IELA Chairman, Thomas Löffler from Messe Muenchen Shanghai Co., Ltd. and Guido Fornelli, IELA Vice-Chairman during the presentation of the IELA Security Guidelines.
