These courses are designed to meet the criteria required by the State of Florida Mold-Related Services Board of the DBPR for licensure as an assessor and remediator. Students who attend the courses receive documentation evidencing specific training in "mold, moisture and respiratory protection" as well as detailed discussions regarding the Florida Standards of Practice. These courses may serve as an exam prep course for the approved State examination, also required for licensure.

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 Hygienists wanting more advanced training
• Environmental Consultants need more information
• Architects concerned about building Mold-Free buildings
• Contractors interested in licensure for Florida
• Contractor's workers who need to know but do not need licensure

Do I have to take a class to take the proctored exam?

No, however, 90%+ of those who challenge the exam without taking our training fail the exam. Of those who take our class, 94%+ pass.

Can an individual hold both licenses?

Yes, and many do. As long as you follow the licensing law to avoid a conflict of interest, an individual may hold both the assessor and remediator contractor license.

Is there an opportunity to sit for a second exam at your training locations?

Yes, please contact us for details.

What are the details of the Florida Law?

View Details

"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.

Students taking this course may choose to sit for the Florida MRSA examination which is NOT included in the price of this course. If you desire to take the examination without having taken this course (or, challenge the exam), please schedule that examination here.

The MRSA (Mold-Related Services Assessor) is a fully licensed and insured professional working in the State of Florida, trained to meet specific requirements for licensure and who has completed at least 24 hours of education in advanced mold assessment techniques including mold, moisture, and respiratory protection (PPE). For Florida DBPR licensure, the MRSA is also required to take an approved NORMI MRSA proctored examination, which can be taken without the course study (usually referred to as "challenge the exam") or offered on the third day of the course. 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.

MRSA Course Options

• MRSA3 - THREE Day ONSITE Option

  This course includes THREE days of onsite class work, including hands-on remediation workshop. The student is fully prepared to take the proctored examination offered on an additional day at a separate fee.

  Expand to learn more

  MRSA3 ONSITE CLASS Schedule

  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, NORMI Professional Practices 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.
  • 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 TWO

  • Hazard 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.
  • Definitions of Sanitization and Remediation The difference between these two techniques helps define the scope of work
  • Report Writing and Protocol Writing require a legible, comprehensive report as a requirement for the protection of the MRSR 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 guideline.
  • Florida Standards of Practice are discussed as they apply to protocol writing.

  DAY THREE

  • Applicable State Licensing Laws and Legal Concerns are discussed in the context of potential litigation
  • 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 MRSR project.
  • Rebuilding to avoid Moisture Problems Building Sciences that relate to controlling moisture problems during and after the reconstruction process are discussed in detail.
  • 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 MRSA 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.
  • HANDS-ON Training - students will experience hands-on training which includes, but not limited to, 1) a single student will dress in full PPE in preparation for the mold remediation project, 2) all students will be involved in simulating a crawl space in which containment is constructed, negative pressure is established using an AFD converted to a NAM and the manometer is demonstrated, and 3) two walls will be constructed to simulate limited and full containment with a decon chamber, negative air machine installation, fresh air makeup and a demonstration of the AFD converted to air scrubbing with distribution tail connected to the PRV24K to expedite the PRV process. ALL students will participate in this instruction as part of their final grade.
  • Review Testing process Proctored testing is discussed and the student is informed of the entire certification processes.

  Students taking this course may choose to sit for the Florida MRSA proctored examination which is NOT included in the price of this course. If you desire to take the examination (with or without having taken this course) please please schedule that examination here.

   

*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.

What you'll learn...

"This MRSR (Mold-Related Services Remediator) training program was designed, not to re-invent the wheel or create a 'new standard' but to teach the student on the techniques and methods that have proven to be effective in the mold removal industry. Standards have been established or generally recognized as acceptable, like the Florida Standards of Practice, and it is the MRSR's responsibility to make sure that he consistently pulls his contracts and his employees back to the 'standard'. By doing this, he will remain litigation-free. IICRC 520, EPA, NYC Guidelines, and State regulations have been established for this purpose and it is our job to give the MRSR a solid foundation on which he can build a strong company." D. Douglas Hoffman, Author of Mold-Free Construction

Students taking this course may choose to sit for the Florida MRSR examination which is NOT included in the price of this course. If you desire to take the examination without having taken this course, (or, challenge the exam), please schedule that examination here.

*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.

Why this is so practical...

"Prior to remediation work, the water source contributing to the mold contamination should be identified and rectified. Isolated remediation areas should be dried prior to or at a minimum upon completion of the remediation work. If heightened levels of relative humidity, or saturated surfaces or structural components still exist when the pre-remediation walk-thrus are conducted, a separate scope of work for drying surfaces should be developed. Drying of structures and surfaces should be completed prior to post remediation clearance." Chuck Hector, CMR Trainer and Owner of Remediation Specialists, NJ

The MRSR (Mold-Related Services Remediator) is a fully licensed and insured professional, trained to meet specific state requirements for Florida DBPR licensure, who has completed at least 24 hours of education in mold remediation techniques including assessment, mold, moisture, and respiratory protection (PPE). Based on a NORMI proctored examination, accepted by the State of Florida for licensure, this experienced professional develops follows industry standard protocols for either sanitization and remediation based on IICRC S500, IICRC S520, NYS Guidelines, and EPA Standards.

This class is designed to cover all aspects of mold remediation. Here is a brief overview of some of the areas we cover:

1. Understand the basic principles of microbial remediation as described and generally accepted as the standards in the industry.
2. Maintain familiarity with the equipment and supplies necessary to conduct a microbial remediation project, as well as, the methods for calibration and operation of such equipment.
3. Appreciate the safety hazards presented by microbial remediation projects, and follow the procedures necessary to protect building occupants and remediation workers from such hazards.
4. Recognize that microbial remediation may bring the Remediator into contact with regulated substances such as lead and asbestos and know what to do with these.
5. Properly address water damage in the indoor environment and understand the proper techniques for correcting such problems.
6. Perform structural remediation by establishing proper containment, engineering controls to prevent cross contamination and to protect worker safety and health.
7. Understand and potentially perform HVAC remediation by employing effective cleaning methods when appropriate.
8. Perform contents remediation by removing and properly disposing of damaged building contents and employing effective cleaning methods when appropriate.
9. Understand the inspection and assessment process and, by knowing these, prepare for post-remediation verification.

MRSR Course Options

• MRSR3 - THREE Day ONSITE Option

  This course includes THREE days of onsite class work, including hands-on remediation workshop. The student is fully prepared to take the proctored examination offered on an additional day at a separate fee.

  Expand to learn more

  MRSR3 ONSITE CLASS Schedule

  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, NORMI Professional Practices 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.
  • 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 TWO

  • Hazard 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.
  • Definitions of Sanitization and Remediation The difference between these two techniques helps define the scope of work
  • Report Writing and Protocol Writing require a legible, comprehensive report as a requirement for the protection of the MRSR 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 guideline.
  • Florida Standards of Practice are discussed as they apply to protocol writing.

  DAY THREE

  • Applicable State Licensing Laws and Legal Concerns are discussed in the context of potential litigation
  • 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 MRSR project.
  • Rebuilding to avoid Moisture Problems Building Sciences that relate to controlling moisture problems during and after the reconstruction process are discussed in detail.
  • 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 MRSA 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.
  • HANDS-ON Training - students will experience hands-on training which includes, but not limited to, 1) a single student will dress in full PPE in preparation for the mold remediation project, 2) all students will be involved in simulating a crawl space in which containment is constructed, negative pressure is established using an AFD converted to a NAM and the manometer is demonstrated, and 3) two walls will be constructed to simulate limited and full containment with a decon chamber, negative air machine installation, fresh air makeup and a demonstration of the AFD converted to air scrubbing with distribution tail connected to the PRV24K to expedite the PRV process. ALL students will participate in this instruction as part of their final grade.
  • Review Testing process Proctored testing is discussed and the student is informed of the entire certification processes.

  Students taking this course may choose to sit for the Florida MRSA proctored examination which is NOT included in the price of this course. If you desire to take the examination (with or without having taken this course) ) please please schedule that examination here.

   

The NORMI Professional Practices Manual (over 200 pages) will be produced for each class and provided to each student to include, but not limited to, all power point slides, reference documentation, the applicable state licensing law, NORMI Professional Standards and definitions/acronyms.

• Module 1 - Introduction, Code of Ethics & Definitions - covers the areas of professional ethics and industry unique language.
• Module 2 - Mold Basics & Health Concerns - how molds grow, mycotoxins, allergic reactions, SBS, comfort and other IAQ concerns of asbestos and lead. This segment will also consider the causes and conditions for mold proliferation in indoor environments.
• Module 3 - Industry Guidelines & Laws - introduction to, and discussion of, IICRC, NYCDOH, OSHA, EPA and NY State Mold Licensing Law
• Module 4 - NORMI Professional Practices - industry and NORMI standard of practice and legal obligations for meeting insurance criteria.
• Module 5 - Moisture Challenges - assessment of moisture intrusion events, how they occur and how they are resolved with or without remediation techniques.
• Module 6 - Controlling Moisture in Buildings - a study of the building sciences that include discussions of moisture diffusion and transport, building assemblies and relative humidity.
• Module 7 - Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning - detailed discussion of building sciences, basics of HVAC systems, inspection and assessment.
• Module 8 - IAQ/Mold Assessment Process - interviewing occupants and questionnaire to complete a thorough assessment and develop a solutions protocol for sanitization or remediation. This includes the writing of protocol and mold management plans.
• Module 9 - Mold Sampling Process & Equipment - hands on and practical discussion of testing equipment and the sampling processes to make a comprehensive evaluation of the current conditions of the indoor environment. Biological sampling strategies.
• Module 10 - Detecting Moisture w/IR Thermography - utilizing of moisture detection techniques which include moisture mapping, moisture content testing and infrared thermography.
• Module 11 - PPE, Respiratory Protection & Safety - practical discussion and hands on donning and doffing of PPE, including respiratory protection, as well as training in hazcom.
• Module 12 - Successful Mold Remediation Process - checklist approach to completing a successful mold remediation process to meet the mold protocol and prepare for Post-Remediation Clearance procedures. Hands on to include building containment, establishing negative pressure and pre-Post-Remediation Clearance Procedures.
• Module 13 - IAQ Basics 101 - discussion of solutions implemented for ensuring the ongoing management of the indoor environment.
• Module 14 - Addenda including Class Paperwork - definitions, acronyms and practical group discussion of case studies and backup documentation, including reporting.

• D. Douglas Hoffman
  • State of Florida Certified Mold Assessor MRSA261
  • State of Florida Certified Mold Remediator MRSR263
  • State of Florida Certified General Contractor CGC019788
  • State of Florida Certified Plumbing Contractor CFC022569
  • State of Florida Certified Roofing Contractor CCC049363
  • NORMI Certified Residential Thermographer
  • Hillsborough County IAQ Consultant
  • CMI, CMA, CMR, CBA, CEE, CIEA
  • Executive Director of NORMI
  • Approved Training Provider for LA, FL, MS, AL
  • Author of Mold-Free Construction (www.MoldFreeConstruction.com)
  • EPA Lead RRP Principal Course Manager
  
  
  
• Lance Eisen
  • State of Florida Certified Mold Assessor MRSA671
  • State of Florida Certified Mold Remediator MRSR747
  • State of New Jersey Licensed Radon Inspector
  • Level 1 Infrared Thermographer
  • NORMI CMI, CMA, CMR, CBA
  • NORMI Chief of Operations
  • 30 Years of Emergency Services, Field, Operations, and Administration
  
  
  
• Timothy Butler
  • State of Florida Certified Mold Assessor
  • State of Florida Certified Mold Remediator
  • NORMI CMR, CMI, CMA, CBA, CIS
  
  
  

MRSA PROCTORED EXAMINATION - May be taken on location the day following a test prep course, but must be scheduled separately here.

NORMI PROCTORED EXAMINATION - The passing of this proctored exam is also 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). NORMI CMA may be automatically granted to those students who are licensed by the State of Florida. A "BTS Course Attendance Voucher" will be provided evidencing the number of hours, the course number(s) and/or affiliated CEUs. This voucher CANNOT be used as a certification but indicates successful completion of the appropriate training hours.

MRSR PROCTORED EXAMINATION - May be taken on location the day following a test prep course, but must be scheduled separately here.

NORMI CMR PROCTORED EXAMINATION - The passing of this proctored exam is also 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). NORMI CMR may be automatically granted to those students who are licensed by the State of Florida. A "BTS Course Attendance Voucher" will be provided evidencing the number of hours, the course number(s) and/or affiliated CEUs. This voucher CANNOT be used as a certification but indicates successful completion of the appropriate training hours.

NOTE: Those wishing to "challenge" the examination, in lieu of attending the course, may do so by contacting NORMI at 877.251.2296 x 8516 (NORMI Standards and Compliance Division) and scheduling, in advance, their presence.