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Our Commitment to a Safe Meeting
HFES was committed to providing a safe environment at the 65th International Annual Meeting for all attendees and staff. The planning team closely monitored developments related to COVID-19 and followed recommendations from local and national health officials throughout the event.
While planning for the in-person gathering in Baltimore remained fluid, HFES outlined and implemented several measures in partnership with the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Hotel.
Hand Sanitizing Stations
Stations were placed throughout the venue for convenient access by all attendees.
Temperature Checks
Daily temperature screenings were conducted upon entry to the meeting spaces.
Socially Distant Seating
Session rooms and common areas were arranged to maintain appropriate physical distance.
Indoor Mask Requirement
All attendees were required to wear masks while indoors during the meeting.
No-Contact Food & Beverage
Food and beverage stations were designed to minimize touchpoints and shared surfaces.
Digital-Only Programs
Program materials were provided digitally to reduce physical contact points.
Hotel Partnership
In addition to HFES-specific measures, the Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Hotel implemented its own safety procedures. HFES worked closely with the hotel to promote recommended best practices related to venue cleaning, food handling, and social distancing.
All attendees were required to agree to terms and conditions and abide by the safety guidelines in place during the meeting. HFES continued to keep registrants informed about plans to ensure a welcoming experience with clear expectations.
COVID-19-related guidance evolved quickly during this period. HFES and the Marriott hotel took measures aligned with the latest recommendations from authorities including the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the World Health Organization, and the U.S. Department of State.
Beyond the on-site precautions, HFES encouraged all attendees to take personal responsibility for their own health and the well-being of fellow participants. The society provided clear guidance on vaccination recommendations and mask protocols leading up to the event, allowing individuals to make informed decisions before traveling to Baltimore. Attendees were also directed to review the latest travel advisories and local health guidelines, ensuring a shared understanding of expectations. This collaborative approach between organizers, the host hotel, and the human factors and ergonomics community helped foster a respectful and safety-conscious atmosphere throughout the annual meeting, allowing professionals to reconnect and exchange ideas with confidence.