Ontario Association of Optometrists (OAO) is excited to host the OAO Symposium and InfoMart 2022 as a live, in-person conference in Niagara Falls, Ontario. This will be the first time we are coming together in three years.

This year’s OAO Symposium and InfoMart, will be different from others. Not just because of the pandemic. We will also be meeting in Niagara Falls, Ontario. The OAO Symposium will deliver the traditionally robust education program you have come to expect and a dynamic InfoMart trade show where you can reconnect with your suppliers. The destination will also enable us to offer unique and exciting social events and activities. Niagara Falls is the perfect location for us to come together again. We are looking forward to seeing you there!

The information outlined in this Duty of Care document is of vital importance for you and your safety. Please read the document thoroughly and be sure to check back regularly to keep up with evolving requirements to participate safely.

Duty of Care 
The health and safety of everyone attending the conference including attendees, staff, volunteers, and suppliers is the top priority for OAO. As such, we are undertaking preventative measures to reduce the potential spread of the COVID-19 virus at the OAO Symposium and InfoMart April 1 – 3, 2022, in accordance with COVID-19 regulations provided by the Ontario Government and guidelines provided by Ontario Ministry of Health, local health authorities and the Niagara Falls Convention Centre (NFCC) and the Hilton host hotel along with and other venues offering extended social activities to delegates.

OAO will update this Duty of Care reflecting our ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and comfort of those joining us at the conference.

Personal Accountability Commitment
We are committed to following government regulations and guidelines as they apply to the COVID-19 as well as the requirements of local health authorities and our suppliers. Additionally, we ask all those attending to follow the attendance requirements and help us host a safe and successful OAO Symposium and InfoMart 2022.

OAO Symposium attendees, event organizers and partners agree to engage safely which includes, but is not limited to; proof of full vaccination, contact tracing, health screening, wearing a mask at all times in public areas, engaging in appropriate physical distancing and not attending the event if you are experiencing any signs, symptoms (including a sore throat, runny nose, nasal congestion), or have recently been exposed to, or diagnosed and not yet cleared by provincial health authorities as non-contagious with COVID-19.

OAO Vaccine Policy
OAO requires conference attendees (including delegates, speakers, vendors, OAO staff members and volunteers) to be fully vaccinated (in accordance with the Ministry of Health) against COVID-19, unless they have a medical exemption. All attendees will be required to provide proof of COVID-19 vaccination along with government-issued photo ID. Additionally, all attendees must
wear a face mask and not be experiencing any COVID-19 symptoms.

Conference Hotel
The Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites is our dedicated conference hotel with a special group rate for OAO Symposium attendees. The Hilton CleanStay Program provides an overview of how they are preparing for your stay.

Group Transport by Bus:
Bus drivers will ensure their vehicles are sanitized between and well-ventilated during trips. Please be sure to sanitize your hands before boarding and wear a mask at all times. Drinking and eating is not allowed while on the buses.

Updated: March 31, 2022