"In many cases, probably upwards to 80% or more of the homes we are in, an IAQ/Mold Inspection is performed and remediation is unnecessary. Sanitization is less expensive, less invasive, and less destructive to the home/office. Once the Certified Inspector determines the extent of the IAQ/Mold problems, he may legitimately suggest this protocol and assist his client in expediting the solution. By partnering with the homeowner to establish a lifestyle that substantially reduces the possibility of proliferating IAQ/Mold problems, a healthier environment is established and maintained for the homeowner and his family."
D. Douglas Hoffman, Executive Director of NORMI.org

Learn to build a business around the "hottest" industry of this decade as you help people improve living indoors. Assessing mold problems and offering solutions in this "solution-based" program will set you apart from others who work in this field and with a profession ongoing CE (continuing education) program every week, you will stay on top of this very dynamic industry with the latest information, tools, and training.

The CMA is a fully licensed and insured professional, trained to meet specific state requirements for licensure (where applicable), who has completed at least 60 hours of education in advanced mold assessment techniques including mold, water, and respiratory protection (PPE). Based on a NORMI proctored examination, this experienced professional develops an IAQ profile using investigative techniques and writes protocol for either sanitization or remediation based on IICRC S500, IICRC S520, NYC Guidelines, and EPA Standards. The CMA has also been trained in corrosive drywall (CDW or Chinese Drywall) screening and mitigation, based on the latest information provided by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), EPA, and other governmental controlling agencies.

This course is designed as a test prep course for the CIE and CIEC certifications offered by ACAC, the CMA certification offered by NORMI, and as continuing education units (CEUs) for the IICRC. Those who take this course should check the appropriate certification requirements listed at www.acac.org and www.normi.org to be confident they can obtain the specific requirements applicable for certification.

CMA CLASS Schedule: (Registration 8:00am)

DAY ONE

• Introduction of Instructors & Class Members The opening period is devoted to a brief discussion of the trainer's backgrounds, field experience, objectives, and logistical announcements along with a discussion of the certification process.
• Mold and the Media A overview of the media "hype" surrounding mold, licensing laws and the role certifying agencies are playing in pending and future mold licensing legislation.
• Mold Fundamentals This discussion centers on the physical make-up of this biological organism and how it fits under the umbrella of indoor air quality contaminants. The student is trained in understanding the differences between viable and non-viable mold and its effects on the environment.
• Moisture Challenges Moisture is a key factor in controlling mold growth so this section is devoted to a discussion regarding moisture control, the five rules of moisture movement, and the Psychrometric fundamentals in efforts to control both temperature and relative humidity in indoor environments.
• Mold Standards-Guidelines & Publications New York City Guidelines, EPA Recommendations, IICRC 500-520, and NADCA suggestions are discussed in an effort to sort out the similarities and differences in each. In the absence of a national "standard", these become the standard for mold sanitization and remediation projects to protect mold industry professionals from potential litigation.
• Understanding the Remediation Process Understanding the remediation process makes developing a scope of work and remediation protocol easier. This section takes the project from gross demolition to rebuild and discusses the details of each aspect of the remediation project within the context of industry standards.
• HVAC & Filtration/Purification Developing a good indoor air quality maintenance program is imperative to maintaining good indoor air quality so in this section we discuss the difference parts of the HVAC system, air filtration and purification to better understand their impact on indoor air quality issues.

DAY TWO

• Health Concerns Several videos are discussed as they relate to and document health issues connected to mold. Real clinical research is contrasted with media hype to sort out the truth about the effects of mold in our indoor environments.
• The Investigation Process The assessment process is the important first step toward evaluating the need for a sanitization or remediation solution. The investigation always includes assessing the environment visually, collecting samples for laboratory analysis, and drawing conclusions. The investigation process ends with a well-written report and templates are discussed to facilitate the writing of those reports.
• Employee Safety (OSHA) Although mold is not considered a hazardous substance, health issues are sometimes related to exposures of higher levels of mold. For this reason, the CMA must consider safety measures that should be taken to protect the health of the occupants and the workers during a remediation project.

DAY THREE

• Hazard Communication Communication in regards to hazardous work conditions is an important aspect of the remediation protocol. This section outlines the potential dangers associated with poor communication in the workplace.
• Case Studies Some of the most practical lessons are learned through the failures and successes of others. In this section the student is helped with analyzing actual mold projects in an effort to identify problems and solutions in a practical way.
• Pre-Test and Organization Review The student is introduced to the testing process required for certification and information regarding the certifying agencies and their benefits.
• Panel Discussion This is an opportunity for the students to discuss in detail any aspect of the class that need clarification. The teachers make themselves available in a panel discussion format for Q&A.
• Web Access and Support The student completes an Attendance Voucher verifying his presence in the classroom along with an evaluation of the teacher(s) and the subjects discussed. This information is reviewed at a later date in an effort to "tweak" the class to make it as current and as relevant as possible. This kind of input from students is always an important part of the training process.

DAY FOUR

• Definitions of Sanitization and Remediation The difference between these two techniques helps define the scope of work
• Developing a Report Writing a legible, comprehensive report is a requirement for the protection of the CMR and the client.
• Certified Biocide Applicators Program This training covers the anti-microbials used in the CMR process and explains the EPA registered Restricted Use provisions for the State
• Utilizing Chemical Applications and their limitations Chemical solutions are to be used as only a supplement to the standard guidelines
• State Licensing Laws and Legal Concerns States requiring licensing are discussed in the context of potential litigation
• Business Ethics Unfair business practices is a module required by some states for licensing.
• The "Mold-Free" Process of Construction and other Techniques This book is the basis for the Certificates of Sanitization protocols
• Certificates of Sanitization and Warranties Protocols that serve as an overlay to standard practices.
• 30 Steps to a Successful Mold Remediation Project A practical step-by-step guide to a successful CMR project.
• Rebuilding to avoid Moisture Problems Building Sciences that relate to controlling moisture problems during and after the reconstruction process are discussed in detail.
• Practical Hands-On Building Containment and Negative Pressure The student is given an opportunity to actually build containment and set-up negative pressure.
• Fit-Tested Face Masks and Respirators The student is actually fit-tested with a respirator and trained in fit-testing for employees
• State Applications for Licensing and Insurance Requirements Students are introduced to legislation governing their particular state and, in some cases, provided with the paperwork necessary to complete their application.
• The Certification Process and re-Certification The recertification process is discussed in detail along with continuing education opportunities
• Q&A with CMR Trainers (Panel Discussion) This panel discussion provides the opportunity to "fill in the gaps" on subjects that have been covered in the course of the five day class.
• Review Testing process Proctored testing is discussed and the student is informed of the entire certification processes.
• Hand-on Training (this sometimes takes the entire day)

NORMI PROCTORED EXAMINATION-At 3:00pm on the final day of this class, the student will be provided an opportunity to sit for the NORMI Proctored Examination in preparation for certification. The passing of this proctored exam is required for certification by NORMI, the National Organization of Remediators and Mold Inspectors along with an educational and experience requirement, proof of insurance, and payment of the associated certification fee(s). A "BTS Course Attendance Voucher" will be provided evidencing the number of hours, the course number(s) and affiliated CEUs. This voucher CANNOT be used as a certification but indicates successful completion of the appropriate training hours. Those wishing to "challenge" the examination, in lieu of attending the course, may do so by contacting NORMI at 877.251.2296 x 801 (NORMI Standards and Compliance Division) and scheduling, in advance, their presence.

What is PROVIDED for your CLASS FEE:

• Power Point Outline (3 slides to a page) for taking notes
• FREE CD loaded with backup documents, business forms, and templates
• FREE "Mold-Free Construction" eBook
• ONLINE LIVE CHAT to help you succeed
• FREE ACCESS to Online Testing Process
• Opportunity to Certify (Dual Certificates Available) at Additional Charge

Who Should Take This Class?

• ANYONE interested in knowing more about mold
• Certified Mold Inspectors for more training
• Home Inspectors adding mold aspect to business
• General Contractors doing their own work
• Industrial Hygenists wanting more advanced training
• Environmental Consultants need more information
• Architects concerned about building Mold-Free buildings
• Contractors interested in licensure for Texas, Arkansas, Maryland, Louisiana, and Florida
• Contractor's workers who need to know but do not need licensure

*The ACAC logo is used here to communicate that this course prepares candidates to take CIE certification exams and does not imply a contract or partnership between NORMI and the American Council for Accredited Certification. For specific information click here.