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The International Association of Exhibitions and Events (IAEE) announced a new policy statement focusing on a drug free workplace for the exhibitions and events industry. Inspired by the example set in 2004 by the Washington D.C. Convention Center in conjunction with several service contractors and organized labor servicing the building, a highly effective prevention program was implemented. The IAEE Board of Directors believes this program should serve as a national model and bases its policy on the fact that those who use illicit drugs and abuse alcohol create substantially higher costs for employers, exacerbate the nation’s healthcare cost crisis and are ill-suited to properly serve our industry’s customers while under the influence.
2008 IAEE Chairman Randy Bauler, CEM, said, "IAEE feels it is important to shine a spotlight on this important issue, and raise the awareness of how a drug-free workplace will benefit exhibitors, facilities, contractors and show organizers alike. We hope the industry will join us in this effort."
As a first step, the IAEE Board of Directors has ordered the adoption of random drug testing for all IAEE employees effective 1 January 2008. The IAEE Board accordingly commits itself and the association to the goal of achieving a drug free workplace for all exhibitions and events, and plans to implement the following:
- Promote a "Right of Entry" concept provision to all major venues that is coupled with random drug testing.
- Urge all IAEE members to support the initiative by adopting random drug testing at their workplaces.
- Inform members of the consequences and scope of the epidemic using all IAEE education and information channels.
- Urge all organizations that are active in the exhibitions and events industry to support IAEE’s efforts with their own, and to join with IAEE in creating the Alliance for a Drug Free Workplace for all exhibitions and events.
"By taking these initial steps, we hope to make a positive difference for those who are organizing exhibitions and events in the U.S. and avoid the undeniable issues associated with illicit drug use and alcohol abuse in the workplace," said IAEE President Steven Hacker, CAE.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
