CERTA Update Announcement - August 2009

As all association members know, the CERTA program was created by MRCA and has been maintained and refreshed periodically over the decades. For the last several years the NRCA has been a partner in the effort specifically to maintain insurability for some contractors using open flame. This message is meant to notify and explain to our membership the latest changes and improvements in the program.

With the entry of NRCA into the CERTA training arena parallel to the MRCA program, there developed two separate similar programs, each identified by the sponsoring organization acronym, and administered technically by the named organization. These programs were not appreciably dissimilar, but differences did develop in actual torch use guidelines and some instructional requirements. This state has been a source of some distress to both organizations and many contractors.

The CERTA Task Force has managed to resolve the fundamental differences in torch use methodology being taught by the two programs. Now the CERTA program has incorporated changes to allow instruction of mechanics in the safe use of open flame torches; and allow latitude for torch use by technicians to insure each roof can be properly installed.

Now CERTA classes will no longer be identified as NRCA or MRCA; the CERTA Task Force representing the two associations has agreed to present one inclusive program, incorporating the best of both programs. Going forward, CERTA will be administered by roofing contractors from both the MRCA Technical and Research Committee and the NRCA Technical Operations Committee, insuring any future changes and modifications will come as consensus program improvements.

The CERTA program was created to keep people and property safe and will continue to do so through the commitment and the guidance of roofing contractors from both the MRCA and the NRCA.

For more information on attending or training a CERTA class, visit http://www.nrca.net/rp/education/nrca/certaclasses.aspx , contact Mary Ann Evanoff, NRCA's CERTA program assistant, at (847) 299-9070, ext. 7533 or mevanoff@nrca.net.