IICRC Registrations Surge in 2006

VANCOUVER, Wash. – November 3, 2006 – The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (www.iicrc.org) saw record growth in both Certified Technicians and Certified Firms through October 2006.

The number of Certified Technicians grew from roughly 37,000 technicians at the beginning of 2006 to approximately 42,000 technicians by October 2006. The number of Certified Firms increased by almost a thousand; from approximately 3,500 to 4,500 Certified Firms.

“We are excited about the increase in registrations over the past year and also encouraged by the fact that more cleaning and restoration firms and technicians are seeing value in participating in the IICRC’'s programs,” said Ruth Travis, president of the IICRC. “To see the growth in the number of IICRC Certified Firms is especially gratifying.”

Benefits of becoming an IICRC Certified Firm include the use of the IICRC Certified Firm logo in advertising, free listing on the IICRC consumer Web site registry (www.certifiedcleaners.org),free listing on the Referral Network 800 number registry, and industry-wide promotion and recognition through numerous IICRC marketing and public relations programs.

“In 2007 the continued goal of the IICRC will be to increase the number of technicians and firms to better serve consumers looking for qualified service providers,” said Travis. “We are committed to providing the best possible education to the cleaning and restoration industry and realize the importance of arming firms and their technicians with the most up-do-date and relevant information.”

To qualify for IICRC-Certified Firm status businesses must demonstrate proof of insurance, maintain a written customer complaint policy with documented follow-up and provide ongoing education and training leading to certification for all technicians. IICRC Certified Firms are also required to abide by the IICRC Code of Ethics.

About the IICRC
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) is an ANSI-accredited non-profit certifying body for the flooring inspection, floor covering and specialized fabric cleaning and disaster restoration industries. Organized in 1972, the IICRC currently represents more than 4,600 Certified Firms and more than 46,000 Certified Technicians in 30 countries. The IICRC, with participation from the entire industry, sets standards for inspection, cleaning and disaster restoration. IICRC does not own schools, employ instructors, produce training materials, or promote specific product brands, cleaning methods or systems. It approves schools and instructors that meet the criteria established by the IICRC. IICRC also serves as a consumer referral source for Certified Firms and Inspectors. Please visit www.certifiedcleaners.org or www.iicrc.org for more information.