Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct

Code of Conduct

Updated April 2025

Maintaining a Positive Conference Experience

At the Cardiovascular Research Foundation® (CRF®), we are committed to fostering a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all participants at our conferences, meetings, and events — whether in person or virtual. This Code of Conduct establishes expectations for professional behavior and provides guidance on how we work together to create a positive experience for all.

This policy applies to all individuals, including attendees, faculty, exhibitors, staff, sponsors, suppliers, and contributors, regardless of their role or accreditation status. Our goal is to ensure that every participant feels valued, respected, and empowered to engage fully in our events.

Core Principles

Professionalism and Respect

Participants are expected to uphold the integrity of CRF® events by treating all individuals with courtesy, professionalism, and respect in all interactions. To help maintain this environment, we ask that mobile devices be silenced during presentations and that conversations be taken outside session rooms as a courtesy to fellow participants.

Diversity and Inclusion

CRF® is committed to promoting an inclusive and welcoming environment. Discrimination, harassment, or exclusion based on race, gender, sexual orientation, disability, age, religion, nationality, or any other protected characteristic is strictly prohibited.

Compliance with Laws and Policies

All participants must adhere to applicable local, national, and international laws, as well as CRF® policies.

Prohibited Behaviors

To ensure a safe and respectful conference experience, the following behaviors are strictly prohibited, whether participating in person or virtually:

Harassment and Discrimination

CRF® maintains a zero-tolerance policy for any form of harassment, discrimination, or intimidation. This includes, but is not limited to, the following:

  • Unwelcome verbal, physical, or visual conduct that demeans or embarrasses individuals.
  • Threatening, bullying, or exclusionary behavior.
  • Unwanted advances or inappropriate physical contact.
  • Offensive jokes, slurs, or derogatory comments.
  • Hostile written, graphic, or electronic communications.

Disruptive Conduct

  • Intentional interference with conference sessions, networking, or event operations.
  • Unauthorized use of recording devices, photography, or distribution of content without consent. Please see the Recording (Audio, Video, and Still Photography) Policy below.

Abuse of Power and Retaliation

  • Misuse of authority to intimidate, coerce, or undermine others.
  • Retaliation against any individual who reports misconduct or participates in an investigation.

Substance Abuse and Unethical Practices

  • The use or distribution of illegal substances is strictly prohibited at all CRF® events.
  • Misrepresentation of identity, unauthorized solicitation, or fraud is not allowed.

Health and Safety Compliance

All participants must follow health and safety guidelines set by CRF®, the venue, and local authorities. Emergency procedures will be communicated through conference signage, staff announcements, and online updates.

Dress Code

Participants are expected to dress in business or business casual attire that reflects the professional nature of the event. Clothing should be appropriate, respectful, and non-disruptive. Conference organizers reserve the right to request adjustments if attire is deemed unsuitable for the setting.

Digital and Virtual Participation Guidelines

For those participating virtually:

  • Use only official CRF® platforms for sessions and networking.
  • Respect privacy — do not share screenshots, recordings, or participant information without consent.
  • Harassment, discrimination, disruptive behavior, or sharing inappropriate content via chat, forums, or digital tools is strictly prohibited.

Recording (Audio, Video, and Still Photography) Policy

The CRF® policy on recordings by conference participants is outlined in our registration terms and conditions.

CRF® encourages all conference participants to be mindful and respectful when capturing or sharing their conference experiences. Participants should exercise good judgment, remain considerate of others, and respect the rights, privacy, and comfort of fellow attendees.

To ensure a respectful and inclusive environment, participants must obtain consent from any individuals who are the primary focus of their recordings, particularly in instances involving privacy or personal images.

Reporting Concerns

If you experience or witness behavior that does not align with this Code of Conduct, we encourage you to speak up. Reports can be made in the following ways:

Email: reportconduct@crf.org
On-Site: Visit the Registration or Information Desk to speak with CRF® leadership.

CRF® is committed to confidentiality and a fair process. We take all reports seriously and will address them promptly and appropriately.

If you or someone else is in immediate danger, please contact venue security or local law enforcement.

Investigation and Consequences

Fair and Confidential Review

Reports will be reviewed promptly and confidentially by CRF® leadership. If necessary, event staff will work together with the CRF® legal department to gather information, assess the situation, and determine appropriate actions.

Corrective Actions

Depending on the severity of the violation, CRF® may take the following actions:

  • Informal resolution (e.g., education or discussion).
  • Verbal or written warnings.
  • Removal from the event without refund.
  • Banning from future CRF® events.
  • Referral to legal authorities if required.

Our goal is resolution and accountability rather than punishment, while ensuring a safe and professional environment for all.

Acknowledgment and Agreement

By registering for or participating in a CRF® conference, you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct.

This policy is subject to updates, and CRF® reserves the right to make modifications as needed.