The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) is working through a big addition to its Safety 2021 Professional Development Conference and Exposition that would enable thousands of attendees to get involved like never before. For the first time, ASSP’s signature event is expected to be a hybrid experience that is also moving to a new location and date for greater accessibility.
“It truly will be an occupational safety and health education and networking experience unlike anything presented in our industry,” said ASSP President Deborah Roy, M.P.H., RN, COHN-S, CSP, CIT, FASSP, FAAOHN. “We are excited about what we are getting close to finalizing for safety and health professionals worldwide.”
ASSP plans to combine a live in-person event with a virtual component to offer unprecedented access to its 60th annual conference, which is likely to occur in September. The Society’s original plans to present Safety 2021 in Denver in June are shifting due to an analysis of public health factors and national projections.
“Our assessment is guiding us in moving the event to the fall as we prioritize the safety and health of attendees on-site,” Roy said. “The pandemic certainly has forced all organizations to be more flexible in event planning, and we appreciate the patience and support of our members as we work through this complex process.”
Safety 2020 last June moved entirely to an online platform and drew nearly 2,400 safety and health professionals who virtually attended educational sessions and engaged with speakers, peers and exhibitors. A Safety 2021 hybrid experience would enable the Society to achieve even greater success. ASSP expects to announce more details in March that include the new location and dates, with registration expected to open in late spring.
ASSP’s annual event – the nation’s largest conference and expo for occupational safety and health professionals that debuted in 1962 – highlights best practices, industry trends and the latest product innovations. Educational courses presented by industry trendsetters provide practical information that safety professionals can use today and in the future to protect workers, enhance business operations and advance their careers. The conference and expo empower attendees to find solutions to their top safety challenges while networking with peers. Participants also earn continuing education units (CEUs) for their career advancement.