IICRC S520-2008 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation

The IICRC is in the process of revising the IICRC S520-2008 Standard and Reference Guide for Professional Mold Remediation. The IICRC S520 is a procedural standard and reference guide for the remediation of mold damaged structures and contents. IICRC S520 is based on reliable remediation and restoration principles, research and practical experience and attempts to combine essential academic principles with practical elements of water damage restoration for technicians facing “real-life” mold remediation challenges. The S520 is written for use by those involved in the mold remediation industry, and is the result of collaboration among microbiologists and other scientists, public health professionals, industrial hygienists, remediation contractors, restoration service companies, cleaning and restoration training schools, trade associations that service the professional restoration industry, allied trade-persons and others with related professional and practical experience. The draft S520 Standard was available for public review and comment from July 5 through August 19, 2013.

IICRC Mold Removal Specialist Exam accepted in Florida

The IICRC’s Mold Removal Specialist (MRS) certification exam is now accepted for applicants seeking mold remediation licensure in the state of Florida. The MRS program is the IICRC’s first standalone, single exam certification. It recognizes professionals who have the knowledge and skills necessary to perform a variety of duties, including: performing mold remediation for structures and contents, controlling pressure differentials, designing and implementing remediation processes and recognizing conditions conducive to mold growth.

Though the MRS Certification Program does not require classroom training, IICRC has training courses in the mold industry available to help prepare contractors and workers for the MRS certification exam in the U.S., Canada and throughout other global locations. 

Within the new guidelines, candidates who pass the MRS examination will still need to meet the experience requirements listed in 468.8413, Florida statutes in order to be licensed as mold remediators in Florida. This initiative will encourage broader acceptance of IICRC certification by other states pursuing or requiring licensing requirements, such as Texas, Virginia and Kentucky.

New Mission Statement and Strategic Plan

Following several breakout sessions last October and input from more than 250 Institute stakeholders, the IICRC has finalized a new mission statement and strategic plan. Approved at the recent board of directors meeting in Las Vegas, the new mission statement reflects the organization’s updated focus “to establish and advance globally recognized standards and certifications for the inspection, cleaning, restoration and installation industries.”

To accomplish the vision set forth in the new mission statement, Institute leaders have established a strategic plan which charts the Institute’s course of activity. It includes goals for activity throughout multiple facets of IICRC operations, including administration, governance, standards, education and certification, exams, instructors and schools, marketing and communication, international activity and the affiliated trade association, the International Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Council of Associations (IICRCA).

IICRC Headquarter Relocation

KCI, the management company for the IICRC, is moving to a new building in September. Beyond a new address, this will have no impact on the operations of the organization. Its new address will be: 4317 NE Thurston Way, Suite #200, Vancouver, WA  98662.

National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI) Partnership

The IICRC has recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the National Floor Safety Institute (NFSI). As part of the recently approved MoU, the partnership will allow both organizations to openly collaborate and raise awareness about the connection between floor care, cleanliness and safety. 

IICRC Newsletter Renamed

 The IICRC e-Newsletter debuted its new name, “IICRCToday,” after a month-long naming contest. The winning name was submitted by Jason Roberts, who will receive a $100 Amazon gift card.