Known as the chimney industry standard setter, the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) was founded in 1983 as an educational, non-profit organization to promote the safety practices and procedures in installing, servicing, and using chimney, fireplace, and venting systems. Not only is the CSIA committed to eliminating hazardous chimney-related incidents like fires and carbon monoxide leaks and dedicated to teaching homeowners, chimney professionals, and other fire safety specialists about the prevention and correction of dangers related to chimney and venting systems, but the CSIA also certifies chimney and venting professionals as a measurement of expertise in the field. Choosing a company, such as Mr. Smokestack, that employs CSIA-certified chimney sweeps is important for many reasons. We would like to share some information about CSIA certification to tell you why looking for this credential is so essential when hiring a chimney sweep.
Areas of Proficiency
As part of the CSIA-certification process, participants must show proficiency in different areas of the chimney and venting system industry. These areas include:
- the technical aspects of chimney operation and construction
- the skillful performance of the best and current techniques of the chimney and venting system trade
- the physics of burning wood and the development of creosote deposits
- all applicable codes, regulations, clearances, and standards
- the care and installation of the different types of solid fuel appliances
- the requirements of the US Environmental Protection Agency.
Requirements for Certification
To be able to receive the CSIA-certification credential, candidates must:
- attend a review session, either in-person or online
- pass a one-hour exam based on Successful Chimney Sweeping 2011 and the National Fire Protection Agency 211 2013
- pass a 90-minute open book exam based on the [italics]International Residential Code of 2006[italics]
- agree to pay the annual certification fee
- sign the CSIA Code of Ethics
Obligations and Responsibilities
Once chimney and venting system professionals receive the certification from the CSIA, they must follow by its code of ethics, which include the following responsibilities and obligations:
- constantly sharpening skills, base of knowledge, and safety practice techniques for fireplace, chimney, and venting systems
- continually learning about and following the CSIA-recommended venting and chimney safety techniques and practices
- working in compliance and familiarity with all applicable building codes regarding chimney and venting products
- strictly following the manufacturers’ installation instructions when installing appliances and other parts of a chimney or venting system
- educating consumers by providing them with essential information about chimney and venting safety procedures
- always treating customers fairly and honestly and never engaging in practices that are unfair or deceptive
- behaving in a professional and respectful manner at all times when serving as a chimney sweep, whether on the job or at an industry event.
The main reason to hire a CSIA-certified chimney sweep is being guaranteed that you will receive the best professional chimney and venting system services. As these services are essential to maintain a safe and functioning chimney, choosing a company such as Mr. Smokestack who employs these certified sweeps gives you peace of mind and security. Contact us today for any chimney-related maintenance issues you may have.