Posted on March 9, 2020

After a great deal of consideration and thought, the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization (ADAO) has decided to reschedule our annual International Asbestos Awareness and Prevention Conference previously scheduled for April 3-5 in Washington, D.C. In light of the recent developments in regards to COVID-19, ADAO believes it is best to put the health and safety of our community first. After conversations with medical experts and ADAO Board Members, we feel this is the best path at this time.

As I am sure you know, many of our conference delegates are at high risk for complications from a possible infection with this virus, and we would never want to put someone in danger. ADAO waited as long as we could while closely monitoring recommendations of the World Health Organization (WHO) in order to see if there were any improvements, but unfortunately, that did not happen. We also are aware that many institutions and organizations are banning all non-essential work related travel, while others are warning employees about the risks of being exposed to the disease during travel at this time. Additionally, the Center for Disease and Control Prevention (CDC) has cautioned businesses regarding large work-related meetings and events. We respect the decision of our colleagues, including MARF, iMig and EIA, to postpone their annual conferences as well. 

All speakers and honorees will still have a spot at the conference when we reschedule, and we plan to still print and distribute the program. Anyone who registered will get a refund and if anyone would like to keep their hotel booking, please let ADAO know by Wednesday, March 11. There will be a complimentary registration after we set a new date. 

This was an incredibly difficult decision to make and we appreciate your understanding and continued support at this time. We sincerely apologize for any burden or inconvenience this has put on you, but we believe this is the best way to mitigate the risk of all conference attendees.

In the meantime, ADAO will continue to work hard to advance the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act in order to ban asbestos and protect public health. To view our progress, past year of advancement, and plan for moving forward; read our latest blog “Landmark Year for The Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2019 and Momentum Continues into 2020

We would like to give a special thanks to our understanding sponsors: Platinum sponsor Simmons Hanly Conroy; Gold Sponsors American Federation of Teachers and Motley Rice LLC; Silver Sponsors Early, Lucarelli, Sweeney, & Meisenkothen and Weitz & Luxenberg; and Bronze International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers.

Linda Reinstein