The International Roofing Expo (IRE) wants guests to be safe and healthy while attending the 2022 event in New Orleans, and has put policies in place that align with state and local guidelines.

Here is what you need to know when attending the 2022 IRE in New Orleans Feb. 1-3:

Masks Required for Indoor Spaces

On Jan. 12, New Orleans reinstated a mask mandate for all public indoor spaces for both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals. The city's COVID-19 website states the mandate was put into place due to the "exponential growth of new COVID cases and hospitalizations statewide due to the Omicron variant."

Where You Do Not Need Proof of Vaccination or a Negative Test 

There is no proof of vaccination or negative COVID-19 test requirement for attending the IRE at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Where You Need Proof of Vaccination or a Negative Test 

Beginning Feb. 1, the City of New Orleans is requiring proof of receiving two doses of an approved COVID vaccine — only one if it is the Johnson & Johnson vaccine — or a negative COVID-19 test within 72 hours to access indoor dining, indoor fitness, and indoor entertainment spaces or performance spaces and large outdoor events.

According to the IRE’s health and safety FAQ, these requirements will apply to events like:

  • The First-Time Attendees Reception and Welcome Party on Feb. 1
  • The SRS Distribution charity concert on Feb. 2
  • The National Roofing Contractors Association's Awards Ceremony and Cocktail Reception on Feb. 2.

On-Site Testing

The IRE is providing COVID-19 testing on-site at the convention center for anyone who is not fully vaccinated.

Testing will be in room 240 during the following hours:

  • Sunday, Jan. 30 | 12 p.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Monday, Jan. 31 | 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.
  • Tuesday, Feb. 1 | 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
  • Wednesday, Feb. 2 | 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Licensed nurses will be on-site starting at noon to administer COVID-19 rapid antigen tests for $50 per test. PCR testing will be available for international guests upon request. Negative COVID-19 tests are only valid for 72 hours in New Orleans, meaning attendees may need to re-test while at the show.

Enhanced Sanitation

The AllSecure program used in Las Vegas will be in place, as will the option for contactless registration. The AllSecure program includes enhanced cleaning going on in the background, increased air circulation in the building, and other measurements to provide the safe and healthy environment.

For more information, visit theroofingexpo.com.