United States Energy Association (USEA) Event Code of Conduct

The United States Energy Association (USEA) is dedicated to advancing the global energy sector by fostering open dialogue, sharing technical expertise, and convening energy leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders worldwide.

This Event Code of Conduct applies to all participants, including attendees, speakers, sponsors, media, and staff, across all USEA events, whether held in-person or virtually. USEA is committed to providing a professional, safe, and productive environment that balances open debate with mutual respect and community safety.

Expected Standards of Behavior

All event participants are expected to uphold high standards of professional conduct, including:

  • Professionalism: Treat all speakers, staff, and fellow participants with courtesy and respect.
  • Respect for Speakers: Refrain from accosting, cornering, blocking, or inappropriately confronting speakers upon their arrival, as they approach or exit the stage, move through event spaces, or depart the venue. Questions and dialogue must be reserved for designated Q&A periods or mutually agreed-upon networking spaces.
  • Constructive Engagement: Frame questions and comments in a constructive, professional manner.
  • Respect for Programming: Avoid interrupting sessions, panel discussions, or technical presentations.
  • Venue Compliance: Remain within designated event zones and access only those sessions or functions for which you are registered.
  • Responsible Consumption: Exercise moderation and personal responsibility if alcohol is served during event functions, always maintaining appropriate professional decorum and safety.
  • Safety & Maintenance: Keep walkways and egress routes clear, dispose of waste properly, and follow all facility guidelines.
  • Prompt Reporting: Immediately inform USEA staff or venue security if you observe unsafe conditions, individuals needing assistance, or potential violations of this policy.

Zero Tolerance for Harassment & Discrimination

USEA prohibits harassment, discrimination, or intimidation in any form. Prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:

  • Offensive, demeaning, or discriminatory verbal comments.
  • Unwelcome attention, language, or inappropriate contact.
  • Deliberate intimidation, stalking, targeted harassment, or non-consensual photography/recording.
  • Continuous or intentional disruption of talks or other official programming.

Open Dialogue and Permissible Dissent

USEA strongly supports free inquiry and the exchange of diverse viewpoints on energy policy, technology, and economics. While constructive debate is encouraged during designated Q&A periods, dissent or disagreement must remain non-disruptive.

Expressions of disagreement are permitted only provided that:

  • Event operations, presentation schedules, and venue logistics are not delayed or halted.
  • Emergency exits, aisles, entryways, and sightlines remain completely unobstructed.
  • The physical safety and comfort of attendees, speakers, and staff are fully maintained.
  • Speakers are permitted to deliver their remarks, and audience members can hear without interference.

Prohibited Disruptions

To preserve a professional environment, the following actions are strictly prohibited:

  • Heckling, shouting down speakers, or utilizing noise-making devices or amplified sound.
  • Displaying signs, banners, or visual items that obstruct views or distract from session proceedings.
  • Standing in aisles, doorways, or designated walkways, or blocking emergency egress routes.
  • Attempting to enter restricted staff areas or uninvited private functions.
  • Operating audio, video, or mobile devices on speaker mode in presentation spaces.
  • Refusing to vacate the premises when instructed by USEA leadership or security personnel.

Enforcement and Consequences

USEA reserves the right to take any action necessary to address policy violations and protect the integrity of its events. Potential consequences include:

  • Formal verbal or written warnings.
  • Immediate removal from the event without refund (if applicable).
  • Temporary or permanent restriction from attending future USEA events, webinars, or initiatives.

As a private association, USEA reserves the right to deny entry or revoke event access to any individual who violates these rules. Failure to leave the premises upon request may result in escalation to local law enforcement.

Reporting Violations & Grievances

If you experience or observe a violation of this policy:

  • In-Person: Contact a USEA staff member, recognizable by their official event credentials.
  • By Email: Send a formal report to [email protected].

If you believe you have been wrongfully accused of a violation, you may submit a written statement detailing your response to [email protected]. Submissions will be evaluated by USEA executive management.

Media, Recording, and Public Record

Most USEA public events are recorded, broadcast, or photographed for educational and promotional materials. By participating in a public USEA session, you acknowledge that your comments, Q&A contributions, and image may be captured and included in public distribution.

Participants who prefer not to appear in official photography or video recordings should inform event staff upon check-in. While USEA will make reasonable efforts to accommodate such requests, complete exclusion from background or crowd media cannot be guaranteed depending on the event format.