ACEC-BC Code of Conduct for Events

The Association of Consulting Engineering Companies – BC (ACEC-BC) is committed to providing a safe, harassment-free space for all participants, speakers, and event staff.

• Participation in an ACEC-BC event infers consent to abide by this code of conduct.
• Organizers will enforce the code throughout the event.

Our events are harassment-free for everyone, regardless of who you are, your physical appearance or ability, or how you identify.

We do not tolerate harassment of conference participants in any form.

Respectful behaviour:
Event participants are expected to conduct themselves ethically and professionally in all aspects of their participation. Further, to treat each other with respect and consideration, valuing a diversity of views and opinions. Participants are encouraged to communicate openly and with respect by focussing critique on ideas and actions, not personal traits of individuals. Discussion is intended as a way of building relationships and consensus rather than a means of seeking views that are right or wrong.
In general, respectful behaviour means refraining from using gestures or language that may cause others to feel excluded or disrespected.

Unacceptable behaviour:
ACEC-BC considers harassment (including unwelcome or hostile behaviour, words or actions that intimidate or create discomfort or interfere with another participant’s event experience), abuse, discrimination, unwelcome attention, or other words or actions that disturb staff, volunteers, or other event participants to be unacceptable.

Sexual language and imagery and any other harassing language or imagery are not appropriate for any event venue, including conferences, client engagement events, socials, talks, workshops, parties, social media, and other online media.

Consequences of unacceptable behaviour:
Participants who are engaging in unacceptable behaviour will be asked to stop by an ACEC-BC staff or volunteer or event venue staff and are expected to comply immediately or leave the event. Violation of the code of conduct may result in the participant being expelled from the event without a refund and may result in refused access to future events.

Expectation of safety:
If you are being harassed, notice that someone else is experiencing harassment, observe unacceptable behaviour, or have any other concerns, please immediately speak with a member of the ACEC-BC staff or the event venue staff.