Introduction

ESPC, part of QualTech Ltd., is dedicated to creating a professional, safe, and inclusive environment for all participants at our conferences and events, including attendees, speakers, sponsors, and staff. This Code of Conduct serves as a guideline to ensure that everyone can participate respectfully and responsibly. Participation in the conference signifies agreement to uphold the principles outlined in this document.

Purpose

The purpose of the Code of Conduct is to:

• Foster a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere.
• Clarify unacceptable behaviours and their consequences.
• Provide a clear protocol for reporting issues or incidents.
• Ensure that all participants can enjoy the conference and network in a safe environment

Scope

This Code of Conduct applies to all attendees, speakers, exhibitors, volunteers, and staff at all ESPC-related events, including but not limited to:

• Main conference sessions
• Networking events
• Workshops and breakout sessions
• Social gatherings
• Online forums and webinars related to the conference

Expected Behaviour

All attendees are expected to behave in a manner that fosters an environment of respect and cooperation. Specifically, participants should:

Be Respectful in your Communication:

• Use language that fosters understanding and respect.
• Avoid profanity or derogatory remarks.
• Be aware of tone, especially in written communication.

Value Diversity and Inclusion:

• Recognise and appreciate the diverse backgrounds and experiences of others.
• Engage with individuals from different cultures and perspectives with openness.

Encourage Collaboration:

• Support collaborative discussions and discussions of differing viewpoints.
• Be willing to share knowledge and experiences with peers.

Be Responsible Online:

• Respect the online community by avoiding spam, harassment, and disruptive behaviour in digital forums.
• Maintain professional decorum in any online interface related to the conference.

Follow Venue Policies:

• Abide by the rules and regulations of the conference venue, including any safety protocols.

Prioritise Attendee Safety:

• Keep personal items secure and be aware of your surroundings.
• Report any suspicious activity or safety concerns to venue security or conference staff immediately.

Unacceptable Behaviour

The following behaviours are considered unacceptable and will not be tolerated:

Harassment:

• Harassment includes offensive comments related to gender, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, race, and religion.
• Sexual harassment includes unwanted advances, unwelcome physical contact, and any sexual jokes or comments. Our attendees right to enjoy our conferences safely will be upheld.

Discrimination:

• Discriminatory remarks and behaviours against any individual or group will not be tolerated.
• Participants are urged to challenge discrimination and support affected individuals.

Intimidation and Coercion:

• Threats, bullying, or intimidation tactics of any form will be addressed immediately.
• Physical or verbal threats, aggressive behaviour, or coercion will result in immediate removal from the conference.

Disruption:

• Disrupting sessions through interruptions, loud behaviour, or any actions that may detract from the experience of others will not be tolerated.
• Individuals engaging in disruptive behaviour will be asked to leave.

Substance Abuse:

• The use of illegal substances or excessive consumption of alcohol resulting in irresponsible behaviour is strictly prohibited.
• Attendees are expected to drink responsibly during any conference-sponsored events.

Inappropriate Photography or Recording:

• Participants should obtain consent before taking photos or recordings of anyone attending the conference, especially in sensitive environments.

Feeling Unsafe?

Our staff can be identified by our coloured staff/organiser shirts and name badges. *Tip: A staff member will always be available at the conference registration desk, or, if you need to reach out online, in the Ask The Organisers group on the conference app. Your issue will be dealt with, discreetly and in confidence.

Our staff will assist you by doing the following where necessary:

1. Contacting venue security
2. Providing escorts
3. Assisting those experiencing harassment

Reporting Incidents

ESPC encourages participants to report any incidents of unacceptable behaviour. “If you see something, say something” – you could be doing a huge favour for a participant in discomfort. Here’s how to report:

Immediate Reporting:

• Speak to a conference staff member, visible through their badges or designated shirts.
• Find a designated safe space, such as the conference registration desk or a general information desk at the conference venue.

Anonymous Reporting:

If comfortable, use an anonymous reporting tool that may be provided at the conference or online, such as the Conference App, by reaching the organising team directly. The organising team will be marked as Event Staff in the Conference App.

Post-Event Reporting: · If incidents arise after the event, participants can notify the organisers via email at info@espc.tech.

All reports will be treated seriously and handled with confidentiality.

Consequences

Participants failing to adhere to this Code of Conduct may face the following consequences:

• Warning: A verbal or written warning regarding behaviour.
• Expulsion: Immediate removal from the conference venue without a refund.
• Ban: Permanent ban from future ESPC events depending on the severity of the behaviour.

The ESPC organising team and venue security reserves the right to take action deemed appropriate in response to reported behaviours.

Acknowledgement

By attending the ESPC conference, participants acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct. Participants also recognise the importance of creating a respectful and positive environment where everyone can thrive.

Conclusion

The ESPC community thrives on collaboration, respect, and the shared goal of learning and personal and professional growth. Together, we can ensure a successful and enjoyable conference experience for everyone. Thank you for your cooperation and commitment to upholding these values!

Contact Information

For any questions or concerns regarding the Code of Conduct, please contact the ESPC event management team:

Email: kevin@espc.tech / pamela@espc.tech / sarah@espc.tech / john@espc.tech / ella@espc.tech

Phone: 083 829 0995

Visit the conference information desk located where attendees registered for the conference (badge collection).

We are a community

We greatly value your attendance and want ESPC, The European Microsoft Fabric Community Conference and The European Power Platform Conference to be a safe place for you and everyone around you. We encourage everyone to assist in creating a welcoming, safe and enjoyable environment.