University of Tennessee Conference Center
Knoxville, TN, USA
COVID Precautions at the 2022 GARD Conference
Because the GARD Conference is occurring on University of Tennessee property, we must follow Tennessee Department of Health Guidelines and Executive Orders issued by Governor Bill Lee. As of 15 July 2022, there are no restrictions on public gatherings in Knox County, Tennessee. If conditions change, all conference participants will be immediately notified. If Tennessee Law, Policy, or Executive Order prevents GARD 2022 from occurring, participants will be refunded all registration, field trip, and workshop fees without penalty, and purchased merchandise will be mailed without fee.
While there are no requirements for social distancing at the GARD Conference, we are implementing the following visual color scheme on name badges that indicates your COVID comfort-level with social interaction.
- RED = NO CONTACT AND 6 FT SOCIAL DISTANCING
- YELLOW = CAUTIOUS – ELBOW BUMPS ALLOWED
- GREEN = COMFORTABLE – HANDSHAKING ALLOWED
This scheme follows social distancing categories used by other conferences. When checking in at the GARD Conference registration desk, you will be asked which color sticker you prefer to place on your name badge. If you change your mind during the conference, you can select a different color.
- Two rooms with live audio and video of presentations will be available to increase opportunities for social distancing,
- If greater social distancing is desired, participants can place a piece of paper in the seat(s) next to them to signal social distancing preference – red sheets of paper will be available at the registration desk,
- Equipment will be disinfected between presentations,
- Hand sanitizer dispersers will be located throughout the conference center,
- Facial masks will be available at the registration desk or you are welcome to bring your own face mask, and
- Complementary at-home antigen tests will be available at the registration desk if you become symptomatic.
Importantly, if you are experiencing COVID symptoms or test positive, we highly recommend that you isolate. If this occurs, please contact Matt Gray (+1-8653850772, mgray11@utk.edu), we will change your registration from in-person to virtual, and issue a refund (without penalty) for the difference in charge.