Two of Alberta’s largest convention centres have received the event industry’s only outbreak prevention, response and recovery certification, GBAC Star.
The Calgary Telus Convention Centre (CTCC) and BMO Centre at Stampede Park join an exclusive group of international leaders who have implemented the most stringent protocols for cleaning, disinfection and infectious disease prevention in their facilities.
“We want to ensure clients are comfortable and safe hosting events in our venues and for that we need to meet the highest standards of cleaning and disinfection,” says CTCC president and CEO, Kurby Court. “Achieving this globally recognized industry certification is something to be proud of and the fact that two venues in our city are now accredited confirms Calgary’s commitment to be a safe destination to meet in.”
Administered by the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC), a division of the worldwide cleaning industry association, ISSA, the program is considered the gold standard of prepared facilities. It provides third-party validation that public venues have rigorous procedures in place for thorough response to biorisk situations. This includes best practices to prepare for, respond to and recover from virus outbreaks like COVID-19.
To achieve GBAC Star, facilities must follow specific performance and guidance criteria to demonstrate compliance with the program’s 20 elements, which range from standard operating procedures and risk assessment to personal protective equipment and emergency preparedness and response measures.
Facilities can apply to the program online and provide all documentation and supporting evidence with their application.
“From the onset of the pandemic, we have worked diligently to collaborate and adapt to this new environment in order to address the increased safety precautions required for live events to return,” says BMO Centre general manager, Greg Newton. “Achieving GBAC accreditation is a key part of our commitment to the safety and comfort of our clients and guests, as well as getting members of our community back to work and our economy engaged.”
Several Canadian convention centres have achieved GBAC Star, including the Edmonton Convention Centre, Edmonton Expo Centre and Toronto Congress Centre. Other organizations that have committed their support are the International Association of Exhibitions and Events and MediaEdge, which is a reseller of the GBAC Star course.
