Code of Conduct
The Society for Experimental Mechanics, Inc. is committed to making its SEM/IMAC Conferences inclusive spaces for sharing ideas and knowledge by providing a safe and productive meeting environment that fosters open dialogue and the exchange of scientific ideas, promotes equal opportunities and treatment for all participants, and is free of harassment and discrimination. All participants are expected to treat others with respect and consideration, follow venue rules, and alert staff or security of any dangerous situations or anyone in distress. Speakers are expected to uphold standards of scientific integrity and professional ethics. The policies herein apply to all attendees, speakers, exhibitors, staff, contractors, volunteers, and guests at SEM/IMAC Conferences and related events.
SEM/IMAC prohibits any form of harassment, sexual or otherwise. Harassment should be reported immediately to SEM/IMAC Conference staff and via email: director@sem.org or (203) 790-6373 extension 100.
Harassment includes speech or behavior that is not welcome or is personally offensive, whether it is based on ethnicity, gender, religion, age, body size, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other reason not related to scientific merit. It includes stalking, unnecessary touching and unwelcome attention.
Behavior that is acceptable to one person may not be acceptable to another, so use discretion to be sure that respect is communicated. Harassment intended in a joking manner still constitutes unacceptable behavior. Retaliation for reporting harassment is also a violation of this policy, as is reporting an incident in bad faith.
SEM/IMAC is committed to supporting a productive and safe working environment for everyone at our conferences. If an individual experiences, or witnesses, harassment, they should contact SEM/IMAC Conference staff and via email: director@sem.org or (203) 790-6373 extension 100, or, if during a conference, by using a venue phone and ask for security if they feel unsafe. All complaints will be treated seriously and responded to promptly.
If an individual experiences harassment, it is recommended that, in addition to notifying SEM/IMAC Conference staff, they write down the details, as they may be asked to fill out a report. They are not expected to discuss the incident with the offending party. Their confidentiality will be maintained to the extent that it does not compromise the rights of others.
If an individual wishes to file a formal complaint of harassment:
- Notify SEM/IMAC Conference staff and via email: director@sem.org or (203) 790-6373 extension 100
- SEM/IMAC staff will discuss the details first with the individual filing the complaint, then with the alleged offender; seek counsel if the appropriate course of action is unclear; and report findings as needed to the SEM Executive Board
- SEM/IMAC will consult with the individual filing the complaint prior to taking any action
SEM/IMAC reserves the right to request the removal of any individual engaging in harassment type behavior from its Conferences. All conference fees shall not be refunded, the individual(s) will be prohibited from attending future SEM/IMAC Conferences and their employer or institution will be notified.
For any questions about this policy, please contact Nuno Lopes, Executive Director at director@sem.org or (203) 790-6373 extension 100.
