On Wednesday, March 18, 2020, ASSP hosted a coronavirus Q&A with ASSP President-Elect Deborah R. Roy, M.P.H., RN, COHN-S, CSP, CIT, FASSP, FAAOHN. Listen to the webinar here. ASSP will also soon post a transcript and answers to additional questions received during the session.

ASSP also released the following statement regarding COVID-19 and Safety 2020:

As the COVID-19 (coronavirus) pandemic evolves, health authorities at the local, state and federal levels are working assertively to “flatten the curve” of the virus – in other words slow down the community spread of the disease. While more citizens will get the virus, these safeguards are designed to prevent large spikes in new cases that could overwhelm our healthcare system. That is why we have seen major sports leagues suspend play, schools cancel classes, companies postpone events and other social-distancing measures that keep crowds from gathering in enclosed spaces.

We Are Committed to Your Health & Wellness

The health and well-being of our event attendees, instructors, speakers and staff is our top priority. Through April 30, all ASSP in-person education events, including those with a live virtual component, have been postponed. In addition, all ASSP committee meetings will be held virtually. ASSP’s Board of Directors and staff are closely monitoring the latest guidance from organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization, as well as information from local health and government authorities. 

We Expect to Present Safety 2020  

As of March 18, we plan to present Safety 2020 June 23-25 in Orlando, FL. This includes our pre- and post-conference courses. We understand that some companies are temporarily restricting travel and/or conference registration at this time, and we recognize your need for flexibility. That’s why we have extended our early registration rate deadline through Monday, April 27, at 11:59 p.m. CT. In the event Safety 2020 is cancelled, we will refund your registration fee.

We Will Keep You Informed 

As an occupational safety and health leader that has stood for safety for more than 100 years, ASSP takes seriously its responsibility to evaluate risks, keep perspective and make decisions based on the latest available evidence. We will continue to assess the latest information as we evaluate the situation in the coming weeks, and we will promptly communicate our decisions about Safety 2020.

We Will Provide Support & Resources 

During this time, ASSP will provide resources that help you and your organizations respond effectively to this pandemic. Read our article, The Safety Professional’s Role in Planning for a Pandemic and listen to the recording of our March 18 coronavirus Q&A session posted above. 

If you have any questions, please email customer service or call +1 847.699.2929.