A Council-certified Indoor Environmentalist (CIE) investigates indoor air quality problems. For example, a CIE can identify mold and moisture issues during a home inspection or a commercial investigation. A CIE has verified knowledge of one or more disciplines related to indoor air quality, including HVAC, building science, mold and microbial issues, industrial hygiene, lead-based paint and asbestos.
Each CIE has demonstrated at least two years experience conducting field investigations in one or more of the following settings: offices and commercial buildings; industrial structures; government facilities; schools and public buildings; healthcare facilities; home inspection
The Indoor Air Quality Council launched the credential in 1999. In 2006, the Council discontinued membership services and focused exclusively on credential program. In 2008, the Council broadened its focus to other industries and changed its name to the American Council for Accredited Certification (ACAC).
For healthy homes-related credentials, ACAC offers credentials in two broad categories: indoor environment and microbes. In indoor environments category, ACAC offers five credentials:
- Two credentials for individuals who investigate indoor air problems: a Consultant and an Environmentalist. A Consultant has eight years of experience while an Environmentalist only has two years of experience.
- Two credentials for individuals who correct problems related to poor indoor air quality: a Supervisor and a Remediator. A Supervisor has eight years of experience while a Remediator has only two years of experience.
- Indoor Air Quality Manager credential for the individuals who establish and maintain good air quality in the built environment. The CIAQM requires two years of property management experience.
Three cautions:
- Individuals and not firms are credentialed. Therefore, make sure the individual who is credentialed directly supervises the radon mitigation work.
- Several states require additional certification or licensing for individuals conducting mold remediation. Check with your state.
- If you have a complicated problem, make sure you have the more experienced Council-certified Indoor Environment Consultant conducting the investigation.
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