Updated August 2020

At ISA we are continually reviewing the best processes and procedures to navigate the daily changes to the global landscape due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As we continue to work closely with testing providers and local ISA components to determine the impact in each area, we at ISA want to ensure our members, credential holders, credential candidates, partners, volunteers and staff are provided relevant information that address their concerns. We encourage our audience to visit our FAQ page to answer questions they may have about ISA’s response to COVID-19, and how it will affect our organization moving forward.

1. Is ISA closed due the coronavirus (COVID-19)?
   
   ISA remains fully operational at this time. We have shifted our team members to working remotely following the guidelines of global health officials, but all association work is continuing. Some of our support services will be operating on reduced hours in order to focus on business continuity and operations.
    
2. How can I contact an ISA team member?
   
   All team members have access to email and their ISA phone number. There is no disruption in services from our team members and we continue to hold normal business hours of 8AM – 5PM EST.
    
3. Will I still have the ability to order products from the online store?
   
   Yes, at this time there has been no disruption to orders or fulfillment. If circumstances change, we will update you.
    
4. Will I still be able to contact customer service?
   
   We are keeping our customer service phones open to provide important support for our members and credential holders during this government-led shutdown. We have committed to having dedicated team members available from 10AM - 5PM EST each day to ensure that as we move through the impacts of this pandemic, ISA is still providing excellent services. This will be effective Monday, 23 March – Monday, 3 August, and we will adjust as situation evolves.
    
5. How will this affect my ISA credentials?
   
   Please see our detailed response concerning credentialing here. 
    
6. Will ISA still host the 2020 ISA International Conference in Albuquerque, NM, US in August?
   
   ISA is excited to announce that the 2020 ISA Annual International Conference and Trade Show in Albuquerque, New Mexico has been rescheduled for 15-17 December 2020. For the first time ever, ISA will host a virtual experience along with the live conference in Albuquerque. Learn more about the 2020 conference.
    
7. Is ISA still hosting Regional Tree Climbing Competitions (TCCs)
   
   After carefully consulting with data from the World Health Organization (WHO) on the coronavirus (COVID-19) and key stakeholders in the events, we have decided to cancel the 2020 ISA Asia Pacific Tree Climbing Championship (APTCC) in Singapore originally scheduled for 1-3 May, the 2020 ISA European Tree Climbing Championship (ETCC) in Slovakia originally scheduled for 10-12 July, and the 2020 ISA International Tree Climbing Championship (ITCC) in Albuquerque, New Mexico originally scheduled for 7-9 August.  The decision comes with thoughtful discussions on evolving developments, continuing uncertainty globally, recommendations from international governments, and the nature of how the virus spreads. While we are incredibly disappointed to have to cancel this event, the health and safety of our climbers, attending public and everyone working the event are always our highest priority.
   
   While we are incredibly disappointed to have to cancel these events, the health and safety of our climbers, attending public and everyone working the event are always our highest priority.
    
8. How is COVID-19 affecting local ISA component events and trainings?
   
   Each chapter, associate organization and professional affiliates having to comply with local guidelines which vary region by region. We encourage you to check directly with local hosts to determine if scheduled events have been cancelled or postponed. Due to the rapidly changing climate and response around COVID-19, websites may not reflect the latest changes.