VANCOUVER, Wash. – November 10, 2010 – The Executive Committee and Board of Directors of the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) have approved the creation of an independent international trade association. The new association will provide education, programs, services and products to individuals, companies and supporting organizations involved in the inspection, cleaning and restoration industry.

Paul Pearce, chairman of the board of directors of IICRC, explains, “The IICRC sees the need for people and companies to work together to pursue common goals and interests. We are establishing this trade association to ensure we provide cleaning, restoration and inspection professionals with the tools and resources they need to better serve their customers – an important step in our ongoing efforts to advance communication, collaboration and technical proficiency within the industry.”

The new association will provide members with education and access to research and specialized information. It will also direct government affairs activities, including increasing member awareness of state and federal legislative activity throughout the United States and facilitating relationships and understanding on behalf of the inspection, cleaning and restoration industry. The association will have various membership categories and the formation task force is working on structuring a model agreement to have regional chapters.

“The association will offer members a number of programs and services that will benefit their businesses and the industry,” explains Craig Kersemeier, chairman of IICRC’s trade association task force. “For example, we are in the process of developing special interest groups that will provide insights and information to help drive business.”

The IICRC will continue, with participation from the entire industry, to develop standards for inspection, cleaning and disaster restoration. It will also continue to approve schools and instructors who provide training and certification for industry professionals. Both organizations will offer networking and professional development opportunities for industry professionals.

For more information about the IICRC, visit www.iicrc.org.