Venue Protect

Reducing transmission by creating controlled events

COVID-19 status checks

The health and safety of everyone who visits the NEC remains our top priority. As with other large UK venues, to keep visitors and staff safe we are implementing COVID-19 status checks at agreed entry points. When visiting the NEC, visitors may be asked by a member of staff to show proof of their COVID-19 status.

The accepted method of showing COVID-19 status is as follows:

• NHS COVID-19 Pass via the NHS App (NB This is different to the NHS COVID-19 Test and Trace app). It is advised individuals apply no later than 48 hours before attending their event to allow for the application to be processed in time.

• Proof of immunity shown by a positive PCR test result for COVID-19, lasting for 180 days from the date of the positive test and following completion of the self-isolation period.

• Lateral flow or PCR negative test results text or e-mail, received within 72 hours prior to attending the event. However, we would encourage visitors to complete their test within 48 hours as some organisers/promoters may request the shorter timeframe.

• If visitors would prefer not to use the app or do not have a smartphone they can obtain a NHS COVID-19 Pass letter (proving vaccination status only) by calling 119 or visiting the NHS website.

Checks are taking place ahead of event entrances, so we ask visitors to please bear with us as there may be a slight delay in accessing our venues.

NEC staff are also completing twice weekly tests to ensure that they are free of infection. Our partners will be expected to implement the same testing regime.

Known audiences

As the hosts of organised events with ticketing and registration already in place, our audiences are ‘known’ meaning that contact tracing is usually possible if needed. We continue to work collaboratively with all event organisers to publicise pre-registration and advance ticket sales ahead of their event. 

Contact tracing and check-in

We continue to support contact tracing through promoting use of the Government's NHS COVID-19 Track and Trace app. The NHS QR code is also displayed at the entrance to our venue, so visitors can use this facility on arrival. 

Codes of behaviour

Organisers are undertaking health and safety risk assessments for every event. This includes but is not limited to, the consideration of international travel and audience demographics. We also ask individuals to take personal accountability for their health and those around them by adhering to COVID-19 safety measures in place and NOT attending our venue if they:

• Are displaying symptoms of COVID-19 (a high temperature, new and persistent cough, or a loss of/change in sense of taste or smell), even if these symptoms are mild

• have been asked to self-isolate because they have been exposed to a person with COVID-19

• or live with an individual who has symptoms of COVID-19

Communication

The safety and wellbeing of our staff and our customers is our number one priority and we provide clear, effective communications for all stakeholders to ensure compliance with our Venue Protect measures. This could include providing details to visitors before their event via our website and social media channels or whilst they are on site via our venue signage or our helpful and fully trained staff.

Ensuring a safe and welcoming environment for our visitors

Face coverings

For everyone’s safety, we advise visitors to wear face coverings on the NEC shuttle buses and in public spaces across the venue. NEC venue and event staff will also be wearing face coverings.

Air quality and ventilation

In line with government guidelines we provide the optimum amount of fresh air to all spaces to minimise the risk of COVID-19 transmission. This includes a recent, full recommission of our mechanical ventilation equipment and the upgrade of our filtration to ensure clean and safe air is circulated throughout the venue. All areas are being supplemented with natural ventilation through the opening of doors and windows as necessary. 

Space

As the largest venue in the UK, our space has been utilised to implement measures that support the safe movement of people around the venue and within event halls. From footfall management and event layout flexibility to queuing systems and dedicated entry/exit points, our spacious venue continues to support social distancing to ensure our visitors feel safe and comfortable from the moment they arrive and throughout their stay.

The NEC also benefits from an abundance of outside space for any visitors wanting to get away from the crowds. We recognise being amongst groups of people can be tiring so we have access to spaces in and around our venue for visitors to have a break. Whether that’s relaxing in our Zen garden or having lunch alfresco by the lake, we actively promote and encourage our visitors to take advantage of our natural settings and benefit from getting some fresh air during their visit.

Outside space for visitors 

Touch-free customer journeys

Human interaction is what we do but we understand that convenience is key and that many people will want to minimise unnecessary contact. We have taken advantage of tech solutions to provide contactless options. So, to minimise contact points when in our venue, visitors can pre-pay parking online, use our cashless options for payment at all food and drink outlets and even pre-order their food via an app.

Focusing on hygiene and increased cleaning across the venue

Enhanced venue sanitisation

Our thorough cleaning regimes have been extended.  All communal areas are cleaned frequently, and we are continuing to maintain the cleaning of high contact surfaces throughout event days along with deep cleans in all public areas.

Focus on hygiene

Good hygiene is one of the most effective way to protect from infection. Our focus continues with clear reminders to our visitors on washing hands frequently and using the sanitiser stations that are available across the venue available for use during their visit.