Code of Conduct

EERI is committed to fostering the exchange of ideas by providing a safe, productive, and welcoming environment at all EERI activities and on all EERI platforms, including the 13th National Conference on Earthquake Engineering (13NCEE) and the 2026 Seismic Design Competition (SDC). We value the participation of every member of the community and want all participants to have an enjoyable and fulfilling experience.

All EERI members, event attendees, guests, staff, volunteers, vendors, partners, and 13NCEE participants are expected to be considerate and collaborative, communicating openly with respect for others, and critiquing ideas rather than individuals. Behavior that is acceptable to one person may not be acceptable to another, so use discretion to be sure that respect is communicated.

By accepting an invitation to participate in the 13NCEE and/or 2026 SDC (by email or online registration), participants agree to abide by the EERI Code of Conduct.

Expected Behavior

All participants are expected to maintain the following behaviors during all EERI activities and on all EERI digital platforms, including unofficial and/or social activities at EERI events:

  • Treat all participants, attendees, and EERI staff with respect and consideration at all times.
  • Be collaborative, recognizing the value of a diversity of experiences, views, and opinions.
  • Communicate openly with respect for others, critiquing ideas rather than individuals.
  • Be mindful of your surroundings and of your fellow participants. Alert EERI staff if you notice a dangerous situation or someone in distress.
  • Abide by the rules and regulations of any digital or virtual platform, physical venue, or any other location associated with an EERI activity or event.

All EERI members, event attendees, guests, staff, volunteers, vendors, partners, and 13NCEE and 2026 SDC participants are expected to be considerate and collaborative, communicating openly with respect for others, and critiquing ideas rather than individuals. Behavior that is acceptable to one person may not be acceptable to another, so use discretion to be sure that respect is communicated.

Unacceptable Behavior

Unacceptable behavior includes but is not limited to:

  • Harassment, intimidation, or discrimination in any form.
  • Offensive comments, either verbally or through any other communication channel, related to gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, medical condition, body size, race, marital status, religion, national origin or any other protected characteristic.
  • Threats (implied or real) of physical, professional, or financial harm.
  • Intentional, uninvited physical contact of any form.
  • Behavior that is in violation of EERI expectations for professional conduct and the established ethics policies of one’s home institution.
  • Harassing, threatening, or offensive images, actions, gestures, or other behavior that are visible or audible to participants or presenters.

Consequences

  • Anyone requested to stop unacceptable behavior is expected to comply immediately.
  • EERI may take actions deemed necessary and appropriate, including but not limited to immediate removal from the event, session, or platform without warning. Suspension or termination of membership in EERI, denial to participate in future EERI activities or events, or other action(s) may be taken at EERI’s sole discretion, depending on the severity of the unacceptable behavior. EERI reserves the right to report the circumstances to the appropriate authorities, including but not limited to the police and/or the involved party’s home institution(s).
  • Reports or evidence of past allegations or institutional proceedings resulting in a finding of professional misconduct, or any current formal complaints related to professional conduct, even if the matter is still pending, may be grounds for: (i) ineligibility or removal from EERI leadership positions; or (ii) ineligibility or rescindment of an EERI honor, award, or recognition.
 

Reporting

  • If you experience or witness unacceptable behavior, or have any concerns during the conference, please contact EERI’s independent third-party consultant, Rosie Parket, at any time by email at conduct@eeri.org or by submitting a report online, including anonymously, using the conduct reporting form. A direct phone number has been provided to conference participants in the print program if you prefer contact by phone or text.