In April 2020 Venues and Events International was approached to manage a new project to allow bp’s offshore assets to continue daily crew changes without transmitting Covid-19. This project was named the bp North Sea Safe Passage.
Photo Credit: Anita Lowe (centre) at the M&IT Awards18 months later, with more than 48,000 bookings, the programme took home the gold award for Best Crisis Response at the M&IT Awards 2021, having achieved huge success and allowed bp to continue working efficiently during the pandemic.
With no blueprint, Venues and Events International turned around a full solution ready for implementation within five days of taking the brief.
The brief stated that there were three key areas to control: travel, Covid testing and isolation accommodation. An online booking system through Cvent streamlined the pre-mobilisation process, while a team of 10 people was stood up to provide 24/7 support.
A dedicated phone line provided a human touch, offering support and assurance, while Venues and Events International also took on the processing of all supplier invoices for travel and accommodation.
Extensive solution
The project required an extensive ground transport solution to minimise the use of shared/public transport. More than 8,000 hire cars and 7,500 taxis were booked, all of which were deep-cleaned before and after use. Vehicle fleets were restructured to meet staff travel patterns, while V&E introduced Covid-secure taxis to safely transport individuals following a positive test result.
The project saw more than 20,000 laboratory-based PCR tests arranged, with expedited point-of-care PCR tests arranged for short-lead mobilisation requirements.
Hallmark Hotel Aberdeen Airport was set up as a bp-exclusive property for isolation, with mid-journey hotels in Preston and Newcastle supporting people travelling longer distances.
More than 33,000 room nights were booked in total, with 35 per cent savings made per reservation negotiating discounted rates.
Venues and Events International also created specific and ad hoc reports to support bp’s various internal systems and shared trends on travel and savings in all elements of the programme monthly.
Emergency support
Venues and Events International was mobilised by bp on a number of occasions to provide emergency support, such as the down-manning of 180 personnel over Easter 2021 in response to a severe weather alert.
Venues and Events International MD Anita Lowe said: “Starting in April 2020 and still ongoing, the bp Safe Passage programme has achieved huge success and was awarded Gold at the M&IT Awards for Best Crisis Response.
“This was achieved after a phenomenal response from bp staff and contractors, who voted for Venues and Events International to win the award.”
M&IT editor Paul Harvey is a journalist with more than 15 years of experience. He began his career in the local press, working for various titles across the north. Since joining M&IT in 2013, he has become a trusted and respected voice in the sector, championing event professionals and reporting on all aspects of the events industry for the brand.
