Safety and Hygiene Protocols

We are working with Fern Health Check, powered by ShareMy.Health, a HIPAA-compliant software system that allows attendees to upload their health data in a protected, secure environment to help ensure the safety and well-being of our guests. Please keep an eye out for an email from them if you have not already received it, or check your spam filters in case it was blocked. Important information for accessing and downloading the app are contained in the email.

According to the health and safety guidelines for this event, guests must upload a negative COVID-19 test result (PCR or Rapid Antigen) taken between Friday, October 15th, and arriving at the event, OR upload a valid vaccination record with a final dose received on or before October 4th (vaccine not required).

In an effort to maintain the health and well-being of all participants–attendees, exhibitors, speakers, sponsors, and staff–we have implemented additional safety precautions:

• We have, along with our venue and service partners, implemented enhanced cleaning and sanitizing protocols throughout the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, including frequent cleaning and sanitizing of surfaces and high traffic areas.
• Every attendee will receive an individual bottle of hand sanitizer in their attendee bag upon arrival.
• Hand sanitizer stations will be available throughout the event space.
• There will be socially distanced seating in the session rooms and a variety of dining options to suit all comfort levels.
• Proof of a negative COVID test within 72 hours of arriving at registration OR vaccination record (Vaccine not required).
• Negative test or vaccination record documentation uploaded to the secure ShareMyHealth app (more details to come) OR brought with you to the event.

The Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center’s number one priority is the health and safety of guests, employees, and partners. The Center has taken proactive measures in response to this rapidly evolving situation and continually monitor information from various resources. The Center is ready to work with meeting planners to develop plans and procedures specific to each event. Current guidelines encompass information from the Center for Disease Control (CDC), Texas Governor’s Office, City of San Antonio Health Department, and International Association of Venue Managers (IAVM).

Current safety measures in place at this point include:

• The convention center requires masks be worn by everyone in their facility.
• Prior to arriving to the event, attendees will be reminded that if they are ill or have recently been exposed to someone with COVID-19 not to attend the event.
• If an attendee becomes ill during the event, they will be asked to immediately go to the designated First Aid location. 
• Convention Center staff will be subject to health screenings, and if not passed, will be denied entrance to the facility until further testing.
• UV Lighting has been installed on escalator hand rails for additional sanitation purposes.
• Increased fresh air exchange and air flow within the building and incorporated higher performing air filters.
• Ventilation standards were adjusted for increased outside air intake/air change rates.
• The frequency of sanitizing has been increased in all front and back of house spaces with an emphasis on high touch point areas such as guest services areas, podiums, trash and recycle receptacles, light switches, countertops, desks, telephones, keyboards, seating areas, chairs, tables, restrooms, elevator buttons, door handles, telephones, ATM machines, etc.
• All cleaning products used are on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-approved  list for use against COVID-19 and follow product instructions for use.
• Custodial managers and supervisors were trained by the International Sanitary and Supply Association (ISSA) on improved cleaning procedures and a comprehensive training program has been administered to custodial staff.
• Hand sanitizing stations are located strategically throughout the facility.
• Sanitizing wipes have been placed in various areas.
• Doors will be propped open whenever possible to minimize contact.
• New touchless items were installed including auto flush valves enhancing the touchless faucets, forearm door pulls, and light/power sensors.
• New automatic entry doors were installed at the Main Lobby entrance.
• Plexi-glass/physical barriers have been installed where necessary.
• Signage is prominently displayed in facilities with CDC protocols for hand washing.
• All room set ups and capacities will adhere to current physical distancing recommendations and guidelines.
• The RK Culinary Group are focused on the precautions, sanitation, preparation, safety and appropriately servicing of guests while following all the recommendations from the State and the CDC.
• All food and beverage functions will be provided in a minimal contact way including one-sided buffets served by staff wearing masks and gloves, individually wrapped items and bottled/sealed beverages, individually wrapped silverware and condiments to be provided to guests upon request.
• The use of linen and skirts on tables have been suspended until further notice.  
• All outside vendors, service providers and contractor are required to follow the established new protocols and provide any additional measures.