COVID-19 SAFETY PROTOCOLS
OHBM’s first priority is the safety and welfare of all participants. OHBM is implementing these COVID-19 Safety Protocols in order to minimize and mitigate risks, while still enabling an in-person 2022 Annual Meeting to take place. Our safety protocols have been developed, and will be updated, based on current information on COVID-19 best practices for public meetings and international travel requirements, with input from our Scottish Events Campus partners in Glasgow, the Scottish and UK Governments, as well as the US Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization.
OHBM leadership is committed to hosting an outstanding in-person Annual Meeting that once again energizes, educates, inspires and stimulates our community to advance brain imaging for the benefit of all, while still ensuring those who participate remain healthy. We will offer a robust virtual meeting offering for those unwilling to or unable to travel and/or comply with the attendee requirements for any reason. These Safety Protocols will be updated and more details provided as the meeting date approaches. If you have any questions, concerns or suggestions for us, please don't hesitate to reach out to info@humanbrainmapping.org.
ATTENDEE REQUIREMENTS
PROOF OF VACCINATION
OHBM is requiring an up-to-date COVID-19 certificate as proof of current valid vaccination status for participation in all OHBM Annual Meeting activities including admittance to the Glasgow Scottish Events Campus, in accordance with local policy and the World Health Organization.
This policy is based on guidance and recommendations issued by the World Health Organization, leading experts including the European Commission's Coronavirus Response Team, the UK Health Security Agency, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Scottish Government, and other public health authorities. The European Medicines Agency and the US FDA have approved the use of COVID-19 vaccines which have been determined to be critical in reducing the community prevalence and further spread of COVID-19. All COVID-19 vaccines listed on the WHO public advice website will be accepted.
Unfortunately, OHBM is unable to accommodate requests for vaccination exemptions. Anyone who will not comply with the vaccination requirement is invited to join us virtually this year.
TESTING
In-person attendees are expected to comply with all COVID-19 testing requirements including those mandated by airlines and the Glasgow government. These requirements vary by country where your flight originates and are likely to change prior to June in response to the ever evolving COVID-19 pandemic.
The travel restrictions into Scotland were lifted on March 18, 2022. Visitors no longer have to complete a Passenger Locator Form, have proof of a negative COVID-19 test to enter the country, have a negative COVID-19 test upon arrival, or isolate upon arrival. These restrictions may change prior to your planned travel for the Annual Meeting. Please see the most current information regarding vaccinated travelers entering Scotland.
Based on current information, OHBM is not planning to require proof of negative COVID-19 tests for daily admittance to the Annual Meeting. However, if you do wish to get tested for COVID-19 while in Scotland, please see the links below to find the proper testing option for you.
No COVID-19 Symptoms - Lateral Flow Device Test (LFD Test)
Symptoms of COVID-19 - Polymerase Chain Reaction Test (PCR Test)
Click here to learn more about Scotland's current testing requirements. And be sure to educate yourself regarding travel and re-entry requirements in your own country.
Document Revised May 26, 2022
FACE COVERINGS
OHBM has decided to implement a mandatory masking policy for all official OHBM activities. This will include the social events and especially the poster halls. While Scottish law no longer mandates that all individuals must wear a face covering, the OHBM leadership team strongly believes this decision is in the best interest of our members. Given the continued high rates of COVID infections, the potential for dire consequences for those of our attendees with health risks and/or family members who are too young to be vaccinated, not to mention the complications it causes with travel plans, masking during all official events is an accommodation that is reasonable to ask. to create the most inclusive environment possible, we expect all attendees to comply with this requirement and do so with a positive attitude.
The Scottish government does acknowledge that the virus may still pose a threat and recommends these guidelines be followed to protect yourself and others:
- Get your vaccine when offered to ensure you are fully protected
- Open windows when socializing indoors
- Wear a face covering in indoor public spaces and on public transport
- Wash your hands to protect yourself
- Take a PCR test and isolate if you have symptoms
- Take an LFD test before visiting someone in a hospital or care home
PHYSICAL DISTANCING
Attendees are no longer required to observe a physical distancing mandate, however, we encourage members to be aware of others' safety and comfort levels when engaging in conversation and to allow ample personal space.
HYGIENE
All attendees are encouraged to wash or sanitize their hands regularly and thoroughly. Sanitizing stations will be available throughout the meeting venue.
SYMPTOMS
Individuals should not attend in-person events if they have tested positive for COVID-19 or are displaying symptoms that might be consistent with COVID-19. Self-isolate and secure a 2 day PCR test, resting until you have gotten a negative test result and symptoms have resolved.
LOCAL LAWS AND GUIDELINES
All attendees are expected to abide by local laws and guidelines pertaining to COVID-19 safety.
Click here to visit Scotland's government website and learn more about the rules currently in place.
HOST VENUE: SCOTTISH EVENT CAMPUS
The Scottish Event Campus (SEC) is committed to providing a safe meeting venue. Ventilation has been increased and cleaning has been enhanced, with additional focus on high touch point areas. All SEC venues including food and beverage outlets are operating on a cashless system, and attendees are encouraged to scan the QR codes on display at entry points in accordance with the Check in Scotland service dedicated to contact tracing.
Click here to learn more about the Scottish Event Campus' current COVID-19 safety measures.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
NHS Scotland COVID Status App (Scottish Vaccine Passport)
Protect Scotland App (Contact Tracing)
Check-In Scotland (Contact Tracing)
Disclaimer: OHBM will abide by Scottish laws and guidelines. Attendees are expected to uphold and respect the policies of the SEC and OHBM at all times. Local guidance is subject to change at any time; Attendees are responsible for ensuring familiarity with the most current laws and guidelines.
Document Revised May 26, 2022
