HELPFUL LINKS

NAFA

The National Air Filtration Association (NAFA) is an organization that focuses on “air filtration” and “clean air”. NAFA is a global source for expertise, education, and best practices in air filtration. The organization encourages improved air filtration in buildings to create healthy and productive workplaces. NAFA emphasizes the importance of clean air, especially in a post-pandemic era where concerns about indoor air pollutants, airborne illnesses, and air quality are heightened.

NAFA offers a “Certified Air Filter Specialist (CAFS) exam”, which can now be taken online. Individuals interested in becoming certified can register online. Once registered, they will receive instructions on scheduling and taking the exam virtually. This online format provides flexibility and convenience for those seeking certification.  

In addition to certification, NAFA hosts events such as an annual convention. NAFA also acknowledges excellence in air filtration through its Clean Air Awards initiative. Individuals can stay connected with NAFA through various social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube. NAFA provides contact information, including a phone number and email address, for inquiries. 

EIA

The Environmental Information Association (EIA) is a multidisciplinary organization focused on environmental and occupational health hazards in the built environment. The EIA aims to collect, generate, and share information about these hazards with a variety of stakeholders, including property owners, professionals, and the public.  

EIA members represent a range of professions within the environmental remediation industry. This includes contractors, consultants, laboratories, training providers, regulators, equipment suppliers, owners, and managers.  The EIA also collaborates with partner organizations, including platinum and silver sponsors.
The EIA provides a variety of resources and opportunities for its members, such as:
A membership directory. Events, including an annual conference. A blog with updates on relevant topics, like EPA regulations on asbestos.
The EIA also maintains an active social media presence on platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

RIA

The Restoration Industry Association (RIA) is the oldest and largest non-profit, professional trade association dedicated to providing leadership and promoting best practices through advocacy and professional qualifications for the restoration industry. 
Representing cleaning and restoration professionals from member firms specializing in textiles, environmental issues, and restoration; RIA provides credibility, education and business improvement events to maximize industry exposure and advance knowledge in the cleaning and restoration industry. With an extensive network of professionals working towards similar goals, RIA has become a trusted resource of knowledge for those involved in cleaning and restoration. Helpful documents such as the RIA Glossary of Damage Restoration Terms are available to download free of charge. Other industry training courses and certifications are available for members.

ASHE

The American Society for Health Care Engineering (ASHE) has more than 12,500 members and ASHE is the largest association devoted to professionals who design, build, maintain, and operate hospitals and other health care facilities. ASHE members include health care facility managers, engineers, architects, designers, constructors, infection control specialists, and others. While our membership is diverse, ASHE members share a dedication to optimizing healthcare facilities and creating and maintaining safe healing environments. ASHE, a professional membership group of the American Hospital Association, is a trusted resource that provides education, regulatory guidance, networking, advocacy representation, and professional development for our members. ASHE is committed to our members, the facilities they build and maintain, and the patients they serve. The Infection Control Risk Assessment 2.0, Matrix of Precautions for Construction, Renovation and Operations may be purchased or available through membership with ASHE. There are 54 ASHE Chapters in 10 regions serving local areas throughout the US.

CDC

The U.S Centres for disease control and prevention (CDC) is the nation's leading science-based, data-driven, service organization that protects the public's health. Executive Summaries are available at no cost on topics such as “Maintaining Acceptable indoor environmental quality (IEQ) during construction and renovation projects” and “Guidelines for Environmental Infection Control in Health Care Facilities”.

ABC GEORGIA

ABC Georgia is a construction industry association that unites professionals across the state, promotes the merit shop philosophy, and provides resources and support to its members. The organization emphasizes the benefits of membership, highlighting the opportunity to grow in one's construction career and contribute to the local economy. 
With over 350 local member companies, ABC Georgia represents a diverse range of construction professionals, including contractors, suppliers, architects, engineers, developers, and industry partners. This diverse membership base reflects the organization's commitment to bringing together various stakeholders within the construction industry. 

ABC Georgia is part of a larger national network, boasting over 22,000 member companies across the country.** This national affiliation provides members with access to a wider range of resources and connections, further strengthening their career opportunities and industry impact. The organization emphasizes the shared goal of strengthening the construction industry, community, and individual careers. This highlights ABC Georgia's focus on both professional development and community engagement.

NADCA

The HVAC Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Association, otherwise known as the National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA), was formed in 1989 as a nonprofit association of companies engaged in the cleaning of HVAC systems. Its original mission was to promote source removal as the only acceptable method of cleaning and to establish industry standards for the association. ACR, The NADCA Standard: 2021 Edition for the Assessment, Cleaning, and Restoration of HVAC Systems is available at no charge.

APIC

The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) is a professional organization dedicated to infection prevention and control. APIC offers various resources and benefits to its members, including publications, research, professional practice guidelines, and educational opportunities. Some of the key resources and initiatives offered by APIC include:

* Membership opportunities, including different categories and groups, chapters, and volunteer opportunities.
* A research agenda, research fund, research awards, a MegaSurvey, and a research archive.
* Professional practice resources, such as guidelines, an infection preventionist competency model, and implementation guides.
* Educational and certification opportunities, including an annual conference, online learning, webinars, and certification preparation courses for various credentials. 
* Resources such as APIC PolicyPro, publications like the “American Journal of Infection Control” (AJIC), and podcasts.
*   Public policy advocacy, including a public policy agenda and an advocacy toolkit 

APIC also hosts events, such as APIC25, a gathering for professionals in infection control. The organization also provides webinars, such as one on reusable PPE in collaboration with TRSA (Textile Rental Services Association). APIC also offers a podcast called “Infection Prevention Power Hour”. The organization highlights its commitment to knowledge sharing and collaboration by offering a platform for discussion called APIC Connect.
APIC's resources and initiatives demonstrate its commitment to advancing the field of infection prevention and control and supporting professionals in this critical area. There are more than 70 local APIC Chapters across the US.

IFIC

The International Federation of Infection Control (IFIC) is a registered charity formally founded in 1987 to address the need for global collaboration among infection control specialists. IFIC's mission is to enable best practices that prevent and control infections globally by leading international networking, advocacy, education, research, and collaboration with infection control professionals, organizations, and communities. The organization aims to improve infection prevention and control worldwide, regardless of location and circumstances.

IFIC offers various membership categories for individuals, infection prevention and control societies, and organizations involved in infection prevention and control activities. The organization encourages individuals to join and support its work through membership or donations. 

IFIC provides several resources and activities, including:
* Publications, such as the International Journal of Infection Control.
*  Webinars on topics like antimicrobial stewardship in urinary tract infections.
*  News updates on global infection control issues, like new guidelines from the World Health Organization and recognition of individuals contributing to the field.
IFIC also highlights its international presence by acknowledging the contributions of its members from various countries. For example, the organization congratulated Dr. Nizam Damani, a previous Board member and Treasurer, for receiving an MBE for his services to infection prevention and control in Northern Ireland and the World Health Organization. 

ASHRAE

The American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) is a global organization with over 50,000 members from 132 nations. The organization focuses on “heating, refrigerating, and air-conditioning” and strives to “improve humanity and sustainability” through those fields.  ASHRAE's stated mission is "to serve humanity by advancing the arts and sciences of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, refrigeration and their allied fields. The organization envisions "a healthy and sustainable built environment for all".** 
**ASHRAE offers many resources to its members and the public.** These resources include conferences like the **Winter Conference and AHR Expo**, publications such as the **ASHRAE Journal**, and a podcast discussing **relevant topics in HVAC**. ASHRAE also provides **multilingual resources for HVAC professionals**, **training**, and a **technology portal**. The organization maintains a **standard, Standard 241, for controlling infectious aerosols in buildings**. ASHRAE has a **Foundation that provides funding** for projects that align with its mission. **The organization also offers a newsletter, *The HVAC&R Industry*, to keep people informed about industry news.** 

AIVC

The Air Infiltration and Ventilation Centre (AIVC) is an international organization focused on **building ventilation and airtightness**. The AIVC offers many **resources including webinars, conferences, publications, and newsletters**.  The organization publishes Ventilation Information Papers (VIPs) on topics such as resilient cooling of buildings and trends in building and ductwork airtightness.  AIVC also hosts and participates in various conferences and workshops,  including a joint conference with ASHRAE on indoor environmental quality. The organization also offers **webinars on relevant topics such as building airtightness trends and regulations and personalized environmental control systems.** The AIVC website provides access to a database with thousands of publications and PDF documents on building ventilation and airtightness.

BOMA INTERNATIONAL

The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA INTERNATIONAL) is a professional organization that provides resources and advocacy for commercial real estate professionals.  BOMA International offers a variety of educational resources, including webinars, conferences, and publications. The organization also has a strong focus on advocacy, working to advance the interests of commercial real estate professionals at the federal, state, and local levels. Most States have BOMA local associations.
Some key resources and initiatives offered by BOMA International include:
* BOMA Floor Measurement Standards: These standards provide a consistent way to measure the rentable area of office, industrial, retail, and mixed-use buildings. 
* BOMA 360 Performance Program: This program recognizes buildings that demonstrate excellence in all areas of operations and management. 
* The Outstanding Building of the Year (TOBY) Awards: These awards honor the best of the best in commercial real estate.
*  BOMA Energy Efficiency Program (BEEP):  This program helps building owners and managers improve the energy efficiency of their buildings.
*   Advocacy on lithium-ion battery fire safety: BOMA has worked to advance legislation addressing the threat of lithium-ion battery fires in commercial buildings.
*   Member savings programs: BOMA International offers its members discounts on various products and services, such as a 2% rebate on Home Depot purchases.
BOMA International provides a valuable resource for commercial real estate professionals looking to stay informed about industry trends, enhance their skills, and advocate for their interests. 

IFMA

The International Facility Management Association (IFMA) is a global organization dedicated to advancing the facility management (FM) profession. With over 24,000 members in over 100 countries, IFMA provides a vast network for FM professionals. IFMA offers a range of resources and opportunities for its members, including training, credentials, networking events, publications, and a job board. The organization also provides insights into what FM is and how it impacts various aspects of the built environment. 
IFMA plays a crucial role in promoting professional development within the FM industry. The organization offers training courses covering essential FM skills, core competencies, sustainability, and online learning options. IFMA also provides industry-recognized credentials, such as the Facility Management Professional (FMP), Sustainability Facility Professional (SFP), and Certified Facility Manager (CFM). These credentials enhance career opportunities and demonstrate a commitment to professional growth. 
IFMA also emphasizes the importance of networking and knowledge sharing. The organization hosts a variety of events, including World Workplace, which is considered the premier FM conference. IFMA also facilitates connections through local chapters, councils, online forums, and a member directory. 
IFMA's commitment to the FM profession is evident in its vast array of resources, training programs, and networking opportunities. The organization's focus on professional development, industry best practices, and knowledge sharing positions it as a valuable resource for FM professionals worldwide

OSHA

The website for the U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) emphasizes the construction industry as a “high-hazard industry” with various risks for workers. The website aims to provide “information, tools, and resources” to help both workers and employers identify, reduce, and eliminate construction-related hazards. 

The website offers resources in several key categories:
* Regulatory: This section includes information about worker walkarounds, PPE requirements, the 29 CFR 1926 Standard, and specific hazards like cranes & derricks, confined spaces, trenching and excavation, and silica. 
* Guidance This section provides resources like compliance letters of interpretation, construction memos, directives, and publications. 
*  Outreach Efforts: This section focuses on initiatives such as infrastructure safety and health, the National Safety Stand-Down to prevent falls, nail gun safety, noise and hearing loss prevention, and other special initiatives.
*  Special Initiatives: This section highlights areas like communication tower safety, highway work zone safety, preventing backovers, suicide prevention, and prevention through design. 

The website also features a "What's New" section that provides updates on recent policies, memos, and initiatives related to construction safety. Additionally, the website offers a Contact Us section for inquiries and links to connect with OSHA on social media. The website is available in multiple languages, demonstrating OSHA's commitment to reaching a diverse workforce. 

NIOSH

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is the federal institute responsible for conducting research and making recommendations for the prevention of work-related injury and illness. NIOSH is part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), in the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).