Training, experience ensure cleaning crews shine

Two weeks ago, I started a series of articles covering fire and smoke cleanup. In this week's article, I will outline the training required and equipment necessary to do a fire/smoke cleanup.

Most professional cleaning companies require their technicians to have certification from industry recognized firms. These certification companies require the students to physically attend training and pass demanding exams before certification is issued to the technician. Most of these courses run three to five days in duration.

During their course of study the student must physically clean a room filled with furniture and personal items. Thse items are covered with soot and suffer from heat damage. Students are taught what type of equipment and chemicals to use. Generally, most certification firms require the student to have two to three years of experience in the field before attending the class.

My company requires our technicians to have two years of experience and pass a company exam with 80 percent or better before I send them down for certification. The firm we use is the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration (ICRC).

The technician must have a working knowledge of wet vacuums, water claws, sump pumps, ultrasonic cleaning tanks, power tools, pressure sprayers, pump sprayers, thermal fogging machines, pressure washers, airless sprayers, various sanders, HEPA 500 air movers, moisture extractors, ladders, floor machines, generators, etc. Technicians must be able to wear personal protective equipment for long periods of time. They must have a critical eye and the desire to be the best at what they do (passion). The technician must have compassion and the willingness to help others in times of need.

In next week's article I will outline a fire cleanup scenario.

If you would like to share a cleaning idea or concept with the reading audience, call Ed Madan at Northwest Environmental Services (255-2266) or send them to Bonner County Daily Bee, 310 Church St., Sandpoint, ID 83864, Attn: What Would Ed Do?

Copy written by Edmond E. Madan, certified executive housekeeper and certified fire, water and mold inspection and remediation contractor. Ed is chief executive officer of Northwest Environmental Services, which specializes in commercial, residential construction, and crime scene/meth lab cleanup.