textingASSE went all high-tech Monday morning at its grand opening session. ASSE President Terrie Norris led the packed ballroom in a text messaging poll. So instead of silencing cell phones, attendees texted their answers to a pre-set number.

Question one: Did you go out to dinner in Denver last night?

  • Yes: 65% 
  • No: 35%

Question two: Have you downloaded one of the free safety apps available at the meeting?

  • Yes: 55%  
  • No: 45%

Question three: What are you here for?

  • Technical sessions – 53%
  • Networking – 25%
  • Expo – 12%
  • General sessions – 8%

Later in the day, Dr. David Michaels, the OSHA chief, took video-taped and texted questions from the audience.

‘So long’ to the man running around the room with a mic reaching out to attendees to take their questions.