Octocon Code of Conduct

After much deliberation as to whether or not we need a code of conduct, or rules if you prefer, the argument that people need to know where they stand won out. So here, presented for your consideration, is the Octocon Code of Conduct.

1. First and foremost, have a good time. That's the whole point of the convention.
2. Badges, badges, yes you need your stinking badges. The badge tells us that you've paid and are entitled to be admitted. It's your passport to the programme. Please keep it visible at all times. If the security gophers can't see it, they'll have to ask you for it. And please remember that when they do ask, they're only doing their job. If you lose your badge, don't panic. You can get a new one from registration for a small fee.
3. Smoking is not permitted in any part of the hotel except in the public bar, and smoking-permitted private rooms. The only event where smoking is allowed is the disco. We would ask you to please refrain from smoking until after the masquerade as smoke fumes may be damaging to some very expensive costumes.
4. Children under 12 may only be admitted to the convention if accompanied by an adult member. Adults bringing children to the convention must be responsible for them at all times during the convention, and are asked to ensure that they are responsibly cared for, and not allowed to cause disruptions during events. Please note, that while Octocon is aimed at all ages, some events, particularly those later in the evening may be unsuitable for minors. NB the age limit is fixed in physical age. We had thought of going by a person's emotional age, but that would have disqualified most of the committee.
5. Unless otherwise stated, normal still photography is permitted in general convention areas. Please seek permission from dealers before taking photographs of their stands or any items thereon. Also, some masquerade costumes may mean that the costumers may have limited visibility and may not appreciate being blinded at a crucial moment by a flash going off in their face. Film, video and audio recording will only be permitted where the permission of the convention committee and the persons involved has been sought first. Otherwise, use your common sense.
6. Under the Comedy Rules (Monty Python) Act of 1975 I am required to say, "There is nooooooooooooo rule 6!"
7. The issue of weapons is always an area of controversy, however for insurance and legal reasons we have to draw a line in the sand. Accordingly we are decreeing that real and realistic looking weapons or otherwise dangerous objects cannot be brought into the convention unless it is being used as a prop in the masquerade or other convention event. In such cases, they must be safely bound and may not be displayed outside the specific event. The committee must be informed of any such weapons and reserves the right to refuse their admission to the convention.
8. It is not normally permitted to bring food and drink into the hotel. There is a corkage charge on bottles of wine. If hotel staff discover you bringing in food or drink, you're on your own.
9. The committee reserves the right to revoke the membership of any member, whose behaviour they feel is disruptive and is preventing others from enjoying the convention.
10. Due to health and safety regulations at the hotel, no live animals, with the exception of guide dogs, may be brought into the convention.
11. The video equipment has to go back on Monday, so please, if a problem arises, don't try to fix it yourself. There should be a member of staff present, but if there isn't, please find one.
12. Members entering the masquerade are requested to cooperate with the masquerade director. See also point 3 and 5.
13. Members attending the radio play are asked to remember that this event is being recorded for broadcast by RTE. While the live audience reaction is desirable, members are asked to keep their reaction of broadcastable quality. Also, seating is on a first come first served basis and is LIMITED.
14. Members entering battling robots are requested to see the separate rules for this event. Robots are not permitted to be activated or tested in any convention areas except the Robot Workshop room and the event itself. Robots should be carried in such a way to ensure the safety of other convention-goers. Audience members at the Battling Robots event are asked to give robot operators enough space to operate their vehicles.