As we prepare to host in-person events this summer, ASPIKA is committed to keeping the health and safety of our event participants and staff a top priority. While we do not yet know exactly what the status of the pandemic will be during the established date and what guidelines will be in effect at the time of the event, we are thankful for your patience, flexibility, and compliance as we work with each of our venues to ensure all safety protocols are being met.

The following outlines the COVID-19 policies implemented to prioritize the safety of all in attendance. These policies are subject to change based on the pandemic’s trajectory, the efficacy of the vaccine, and government guidelines in place at the actual time of the event. Further information and adjustments to policies will be communicated as new information becomes available. Aspika will have a designated staff member on site at each event to serve as the Pandemic Compliance Coordinator to ensure that all protocols are being followed.

Anyone who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms, has tested positive for COVID-19, or has been exposed to someone who has tested positive for COVID-19 within 14 days prior to the event should not attend the event.

ASPIKA will require a negative test results from participants upon entrance – dated 3 days prior to event.

Masks will be worn inside all public areas of buildings, except when actively eating or drinking.Signage to prevent crowding and maintain social distancing during times of movement throughout the event will be implemented

The venue will have increased sanitization measures implemented.

Hand sanitizing stations will be available throughout the venue.

For anyone under the age of 18 required chaperones is required with same procedures as mentioned above.

Seating assignments will not rotate throughout the event.

Meals will be served with food distribution methods in place that avoid congestion and crowding.

Anyone exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19 during the ASPIKA Summit will be taken to this designated space. This individual will be required to have a rapid COVID-19 test in order to return to the venue. If the result is positive, that individual will be required to depart the ASPIKA Summit. If the result is negative, we will determine the best course of action in order for the entire staff, guests, and participants feel comfortable, at ease and safe.

FOOF SAFETY – ASSUMPTION OF RISK – FOODS TRANSPORTED, PREPARED AND CONSUMED
Food preparation carries with it inherent risks that include but are not limited to health hazards resulting from improper transport, handling and storage.


WAIVER:
Upon Registration – Waiver of Liability

ASSUMPTION OF RISKS
Participation in any Event carries with it certain inherent risks that cannot be eliminated regardless of the care taken to avoid injuries. The specific risks vary, and can include but are not limited to cooking food thoroughly; separating and not cross  ontaminating foods; chilling or  efrigerating food  ppropriately; cleaning
foodstuffs, instruments and hands used in and for food preparation; fire or gas hazards.


INDEMNIFICATION AND HOLD HARMLESS
Upon Registration – Waiver of Liability

FOODS MORE LIKELY TO BE ASSOCIATED WITH FOODBORNE ILLNESS
Raw foods of animal origin are those most likely to be contaminated; that is, raw meat and poultry, raw eggs, unpasteurized milk, and raw shellfish. Foods that mingle the products of many individual animals, such as bulk raw milk, pooled raw eggs, or ground beef, are particularly hazardous. Fruits and vegetables consumed raw are a particular concern. Washing can decrease but not eliminate contamination, so the consumers can do little to protect themselves. Using water that is not clean can contaminate many boxes of produce. Unpasteurized fruit juice can also be contaminated if there are pathogens in or on the fruit that is used to make it.

SOME INDIVIDUALS ARE PARTICULARLY AT HIGH RISK
Pregnant women, the elderly, and people with food allergies are at higher risk for severe infections.