Professionals in the industry of cleaning and restoration of flooring use water extraction techniques in numerous applications. Anytime a cleaning solution is applied to break down dirt in carpeting, for example, the liquid must subsequently be removed to prevent the growth of mildew. On a larger and often more urgent scale, qualified restoration technicians must be skilled in water extraction when responding to a home or business that experienced flooding due to a burst pipe, sewer spill or natural disaster.
The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC), in cooperation with approved partner schools across the country and internationally, facilitates courses that enable industry professionals to obtain certification as Water Damage Restoration Technicians (WRT).
The WRT program takes place in a classroom setting, teaching technicians the basic principles of damage caused by liquid immersion, its consequences, and methodologies for the drying of various structures and flooring types. Students learn the procedures for handling complications such as mold contamination and sewer backflow. In addition, the three-day course also covers water extraction techniques.
The WRT class can be taken in combination with an Applied Structural Drying Technician (ASD) certification course. The ASD program teaches methods of drying damaged structures effectively, efficiently, and in a timely manner through classroom and hands-on training. Enhanced drying systems as well as various water extraction tools, techniques and technologies are discussed and presented in the course.
When taken individually, the ASD class is a three-day course that requires WRT certification as a prerequisite. When completed in tandem with the WRT course, the combination program lasts five days. At the end of the five-day dual-certification course, students who successfully pass the final exams for both classes receive their WRT and ASD certifications. No portion of the dual-certification class can be applied to separately taught WRT or ASD courses.
Upon earning WRT or WRT/ASD certification, students are eligible to take advanced courses in pursuit of Journeyman and Master Water Restorer titles. Specific additional certifications are required to obtain these advanced designations.
IICRC-certified schools also offer continuing education classes for students who have already earned basic certification. WRT graduates who wish to receive additional, specialized training in water extraction generally qualify to take a corresponding distance learning class offered by various approved sources. Some courses offer 0.5 credits toward the 2-credit continuing education requirement restoration technicians must meet every four years to keep their certification active. Numerous other continuing education courses related to restoration after flooding are also available through IICRC partner schools.
Technicians who hold WRT and/or ASD certification are entitled to display the CleanTrust™ logo on their uniform, a symbol consumer’s associate with technical proficiency, knowledge and high ethical standards. Certified technicians rise above the competition with documented training and education. This elevated status is an effective marketing tool for industry professionals and their employers. Because ongoing training is required to retain certification, technicians are certain to keep up with industry trends as well as changes in technology and methodology.