FLIBS gets go-ahead with multiple measures in place

Informa Markets, boat and yacht event organisers, is introducing AllSecure, a newly enhanced approach to health and safety at all of its events. This comes ahead of the 61st annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) set to take place 28 October – 1 November.

Informa says it has worked diligently to develop the AllSecure standards.

This means FLIBS will follow standards for undergoing deep cleaning before, during, and after each day’s events. This includes complete overnight disinfection, electrostatic sprayers with EPA biodegradable disinfectants, and continuous sanitation throughout the course of the boat show, with a focus on high-touch areas such as door handles, restrooms, and food and beverage areas.

AllSecure encompasses four cornerstones: cleaning and hygiene countermeasures, physical distancing, protect and detect, and communication. This means protocols like non-contact ticketing and registration, on-site signage and floor markings, social distance ambassadors, and multiple points of entrance and exit, among other measures.

“The health and safety of our staff, exhibitors, visitors, and community remains our number one priority,” says Andrew Doole, president of Informa Markets U.S. Boat Shows. “We also recognise the importance of our boat shows to the local and state economy and the marine industry at large. Since the inception of the pandemic, we have been focused on a plan that prioritises safety and an exceptional visitor experience, so that every person who attends our events can do so safely and with confidence.”

Additionally, pursuant to local laws, all staff and participants will be required to wear a face mask, and participate in screening measures such as thermal scanned temperature checks or other screening processes upon entry.

“As the world’s largest in-water boat show, FLIBS is a major economic driver, benefitting the marine industry, the city of Fort Lauderdale, and the state of Florida, with a total statewide economic impact of $1.3 billion. Informa’s standards and guidelines, coupled with the show’s seven sites and nearly 90 acres of outdoor space, will allow every guest and exhibitor who attends over the five days of the show to feel confident and safe,” says Phil Purcell, CEO/president of the Marine Industries Association of South Florida, which owns FLIBS.

“We are adjusting to the new normal and remain flexible and prepared to adapt quickly if need be given rapidly changing conditions, policies, and guidelines. We are excited to bring the marine community and boating enthusiasts back together in October and are moving full steam ahead to a robust boat show season.”