Calgary convention venues to receive GBAC STAR

Calgary TELUS Convention Centre (CTCC) and BMO Centre at Stampede Park (BMO Centre) have announced that both Calgary-based venues have achieved the Global Biorisk Advisory Council (GBAC) STAR. Under the guidance of GBAC, the venues join a group of venues that have implemented GBAC-approved protocols for cleaning, disinfection and infectious disease prevention in their facilities. GBAC STAR helps organisations “establish protocols and procedures, offers expert-led training and assesses a facility’s readiness for biorisk situations”. The programme verifies that CTCC and BMO Centre have implemented practices to prepare for, respond to and recover from outbreaks and pandemics like Covid-19. Kurby Court, president and CEO of CTCC, said: “We want to ensure clients are comfortable and safe hosting events in our venues and, for that, we need to meet the highest standards of cleaning and disinfection. Achieving this globally recognised industry certification is something to be proud of and the fact that two venues in our city are now accredited confirms Calgary’s commitment to be a safe destination to meet in.” Greg Newton, general manager of BMO Centre, added: “From the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic, we have worked diligently to collaborate and adapt to this new environment in order to address the increased safety precautions required for live events to return. Achieving GBAC accreditation is a key part of our commitment to the safety and comfort of our clients and guests, as well as getting members of our community back to work and our economy engaged.” Cindy Ady, CEO of Tourism Calgary, said: “Having Calgary’s two largest hosting venues accredited in the highest-level of cleanliness and prevention demonstrates how diligently our destination is working to provide safety and comfort for visitors and Calgarians.”