Overview:
At SALTEX, we are committed to providing an inclusive, safe and respectful environment for all.
This code of conduct outlines our expectations for behaviour as well as the consequences of unacceptable behaviour.
Scope:
This code of conduct applies to everyone present at our events including sponsors, speakers, attendees, media, contractors and exhibitors.
Principles:
We expect everyone to act professionally and respectfully, both at the event and during any interactions before or after the event. All attendees have a responsibility to take reasonable care of their own safety, and that of others.
We do not tolerate any form of discrimination or harassment towards any person.
The following is a non-exhaustive list of behaviours that we deem unacceptable:
- Offensive comments relating to age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.
- Unwanted physical contact, violence, sexual attention or innuendo or intimidation.
- Any acts or behaviour disruptive to the event (includes heckling, interrupting speakers, protesting).
- Possession or consumption of illegal substances.
- Excessive or irresponsible alcohol consumption that risks safety or contributes to behaviour that breaches this code.
- Failure to respect the rules or regulations of the venue or health and safety requirements, including smoking in non-designated areas.
Consequences of Breaching Code of Conduct:
Anyone asked to stop unacceptable behaviour is expected to comply immediately. Our response to incidents of unacceptable behaviour will vary according to circumstance but may include any combination of the following actions:
- Addressing the incident with the individual(s) and/or their company representative
- Informing venue security
- Expulsion from the event without warning or refund
- Referring behaviour to police
- Prevention of future attendance to SALTEX events
All determinations of whether behaviour breaches the Code of Conduct are at the Grounds Management Association's sole discretion and the decision(s) of the Grounds Management Association representatives on-site, or after the event, will be final.
Reporting of unacceptable behaviour:
Anyone experiencing or witnessing any harassment, discrimination or behaviour that makes them feel unsafe or uncomfortable is encouraged to report this to the NEC or the Grounds Management Association on-site team. The Grounds Management Association teams are trained on the Code of Conduct and how to respond.
For reporting an incident after the event itself please email: saltex@thegma.org.uk providing as much information as possible. All reports will be investigated and responded to by a trained team member. All reports or disclosures will be treated professionally and sensitively.
Support for recipients of unacceptable behaviour:
In the unlikely event of someone being a recipient of unwanted or unacceptable behaviour at our events, we will ensure appropriate support is offered as a priority. This may include any combination of the following:
- Providing a safe and confidential space
- Arranging medical or mental health response
- Signposting of available support services
- Follow-up contact by designated company representative