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VIDEO IRE 2022 Preview: New Orleans Mask Mandate Lifted

Attendees at the 2022 International Roofing Expo (IRE) in New Orleans Feb. 1-3 will not be required to wear masks or show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or testing while at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Late last month, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell suspended its mask mandate for most public spaces, including the site of the IRE, due to a drop in COVID-19 cases and climbing vaccination rates. The announcement followed Louisiana Gov. John Bel Edwards’ decision to lift the statewide mask mandate as well.

The city also dropped requirements for proof-of-vaccination or negative COVID-19 test results to enter the show.

“We always follow the local and state guidelines and were pleased to hear this news,” said Shelby Snelson, show manager with Informa Markets in a recent video chat with RC.

Masks are still strongly recommended by the Center for Disease Control and will be encouraged while onsite, but won’t be a requirement like they were for the in-person IRE in Las Vegas last August. The All Secure program used in Las Vegas will be in place, as will the option for contactless registration.

“Participants will see the same level of precautions we had in Las Vegas,” she said. “We’ll have enhanced cleaning going on in the background, we’ll have increased air circulation in the building, and other measurements just to provide the safe and healthy environment to make everyone feel comfortable.”

The show floor will be larger than in last August, and there are dozens of educational sessions and seminar presentations planned throughout the show. Other attractions include the return of an in-person Community Service Day building project on Jan. 31, and an in-person keynote speech delivered by National Roofing Contractors Association CEO Reid Ribble.

Early-bird pricing ends Dec. 14.