Code of Conduct for Tech Conferences & Events

Conference Code of Conduct

In-person and hybrid events have additional safety considerations beyond online communities. A conference code of conduct must address physical spaces, social dynamics, and real-time enforcement.

Additional Sections for Events

Beyond the standard code of conduct sections, conferences need:

Venue-Specific Rules

• Photography and recording consent policies
• Alcohol-related behavior expectations
• Dress code if applicable
• Accessibility accommodations

In-Person Reporting

• Designated safe spaces and quiet rooms
• Identified staff members (distinguishable by badges or shirts)
• Phone number for urgent reports during the event
• Location of the reporting desk

Real-Time Enforcement

• Immediate de-escalation protocols
• Authority to remove attendees from the venue
• Relationship with venue security
• Emergency procedures

Example: Event-Specific Language

## Event Safety

### Photography Policy
Always ask before photographing or recording other attendees.
Respect "no photo" badges and requests.

### Reporting at the Event
- Visit the registration desk and ask for a Code of Conduct contact
- Call or text: [PHONE_NUMBER]
- Email: [EMAIL] (monitored during event hours)

### Enforcement During the Event
Event staff may take immediate action including:
- Warning the offender
- Expulsion from the event without refund
- Banning from future events
- Contacting local law enforcement if necessary

Best Practices

1. Display prominently — Post the CoC on the event website, at registration, and on slides between talks
2. Brief all staff — Every volunteer should know the reporting process
3. Response time — Aim for initial response within 30 minutes during the event
4. Follow up — Contact reporters within 24 hours after the event concludes
5. Transparency report — Publish anonymized statistics after the event