Coronavirus / COVID19

Safety at SQLBits

Your health, safety and comfort has been, and continues to be, our number one priority.?To ensure everyone feels safe and secure at SQLBits 2022 the following guidelines will be in place. We are constantly reviewing these alongside the ExCeL based on current government advice and regulations.

What is required to attend SQLBits?

ExCel will be enforcing the following for entry to the venue. 
[EDIT – 15/Feb/2022] Excel will now be doing this with spot checks, rather than enforcing for every attendee.

Attendees will need to demonstrate?proof of one?of the following

  • Proof of completion of double vaccination 2 weeks prior to arrival.
  • Proof of a Negative Lateral Flow Test result, taken within 48hrs of arrival.
  • Proof of a Negative PCR Test result, taken within 48hrs of arrival.
  • Proof of natural 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.
  • Please note, UK-based visitors can use their NHS Covid Pass, and international visitors, the equivalent from their country of origin.

In addition 

SQLBits would like people to have had a negative lateral flow or PCR within 48 hours. We hope our amazing attendees will be considerate to other attendees and follow this request. Lateral flow tests will be available in case you forget. 

Additionally, we encourage use of masks in crowded spaces, we have extra ventilation and extra space and separation in the expo and all rooms also as mitigation. 

Lateral flow tests are available from?gov.uk website?or your local pharmacy. 

We take our responsibility for the Health & Safety for everybody at our events incredibly seriously. Should you have any comments, questions or suggestions in relation to our systems and processes please e-mail us directly: contactus@sqlbits.com  

How do I show proof of my COVID Status?

If you are a resident in England:

Via the?NHS COVID Pass?which lets you share your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination records or test COVID-19 status in a secure way.

International visitors can present the equivalent from their country of origin.

OR

Proof of your negative Lateral Flow Test (please see details further down).

  • Proof of a negative NHS lateral flow test taken within 48hrs prior to attending the event can be displayed via NHS App, SMS text, or via email.
  • Proof of vaccine can be displayed via the NHS App, NHS website or by downloading and printing off a PDF.
  • A non-digital letter is also available through the NHS website using the ‘Get your coronavirus (COVID-19) vaccination status letter’ service or by phoning 119.

Are face coverings required?

We encourage use of masks in crowded spaces, we have extra ventilation and extra space and separation in the expo and all rooms also as mitigation. 

Will there be any restrictions for international attendees?

As event organisers it is our responsibility to manage all attendees on arrival at the event. We welcome international attendees on the basis they can prove their COVID-19 Status as defined by the UK Government at the time of the event.
Proof of vaccination status and test results demonstrated via the EU Digital COVID Certificate or the equivalent from outside of the EU, will be accepted at the COVID-19 Status checks.
You can read information about requirements on entering the UK, including PCR test providers, on?gov.uk.

Do I need to take a PCR test before attending the event?

Not necessarily. You can show proof of a full vaccination course or, proof of a negative lateral flow test to attend the event. Lateral Flow tests can be obtained from gov.uk website or at your local pharmacy. 

If you require a PCR test, a list of providers can be found on?gov.uk. Some of these providers also offer Express PCR Test Services. 

Will there be temperature checking?

At this time, we do not intend to introduce temperature checking. We will update you accordingly should guidelines dictate.

Will my COVID status I be checked each day?

Yes, each day on entry to the venue you will be checked the venue staff.

What should I do if I feel unwell or displaying COVID 19 symptoms?

If you feel unwell with symptoms of COVID-19, please do not attend. Should you begin to feel unwell with symptoms of COVID-19 whilst onsite, please follow current Government guidelines which would be for you to leave the event and arrange to go for a PCR test.

What are the current restrictions for travelling to the UK from another country?

Please visit Gov.uk for the most up to date travel restriction information.

How will ExCeL manage ventilation?

Ventilation has been increased, improving fresh air circulation in line with latest CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers) guidance and recommendations.

What is ExCeL cleaning regime?

The ExCeL Cleaning Team have been trained to deliver new cleaning procedures. They have installed a Nimlok Entry Management System (NEMS) at the entrances of all bathrooms, located along the boulevard, to assist with managing the flow of people. Specific waste management procedures are in place to manage the safe disposal of PPE and testing materials.

Will there be hand sanitiser stations?

Yes. Hand sanitisers will be provided throughout the venue, including the lorry way.