RIA's CRS program transfers to ARCS

DALLAS — The Association of Rug Care Specialists (ARCS) became owner of the Certified Rug Specialist (CRS) certification program on January 4. Ownership was transferred to ARCS from the Restoration Industry Association (RIA) after several months of discussions between officials of the two associations.

The ownership transfer is a critical step for rug care professionals, the rug care industry and ARCS. It brings the administration of the nation's highest rug care certification program under the auspices of the nation's only trade association solely dedicated to the rug care industry.

The ARCS now has a full range of courses necessary to meet the educational needs of rug care professionals at all experience levels. The ARCS expects to offer the CRS certification program in early 2013.

"Our association's mission is to educate rug care professionals and advance the science of rug care," said ARCS President Bill Foulds. "Thanks to this ownership transfer, we're much better positioned today to accomplish that mission."

Additional information on the ARCS courses can be found on the association's website: www.RugCareSpecialists.org.

Microban acquired by W.M. Barr

MEMPHIS, TN — Microban International Ltd., a developer of antimicrobial products for both the cleaning and restoration industry and consumer markets, has been acquired by W.M. Barr and Company Inc.

The acquisition of Microban is part of W.M. Barr's strategic effort to bring advanced materials protection products to both the professional and consumer markets.

"We're very excited about the opportunity to help grow and expand the Microban brand into new channels and categories, as well as the complementary synergies for the Microban and Aegis businesses in the textile category," said Rich Loomis, chief executive officer (CEO) of W.M. Barr.

Steve Poulos rejoins HydraMaster and U.S. Products

MUKILTEO, WA — Steve Poulos has rejoined both HydraMaster and U.S. Products in the newly created position of regional manager.

In this new position, Poulos will be responsible for key distributor accounts within the mountain region, along with several focused national and international accounts.

Poulos returns to HydraMaster and U.S. Products from a key management position with a cleaning and restoration industry equipment, chemical and tool manufacturer.

"We believe that the addition of Steve's talents, industry knowledge and relationships further bolsters our ability to expand our markets going into 2012," said Mickey McKee, vice president of sales and marketing for HydraMaster and U.S. Products.

Settlement reached in Chinese drywall case

WASHINGTON — Thousands of homeowners affected by defective Chinese drywall have agreed to a settlement up to $1 billion.

The settlement is to be paid by German manufacturer Knauf International, whose Chinese subsidiary was responsible for the tainted product that has been blamed for producing fumes that damaged air conditioning, wiring and fixtures.

The settlement would allow about 4,500 properties containing drywall made by Knauf Plasterboard Tianjin to be repaired.

The settlement value is about $800 million to $1 billion, but the final cost will depend on the number of homeowners who provide evidence of tainted drywall and the size of the homes.

Powr-Flite adds media specialist

FORT WORTH, TX — Powr-Flite has hired Philip Pelphrey to be the company's new web content specialist.

The focus of Pelphrey's position will be on developing video content for the company's website, along with enhancing on-site web content.

Before joining Powr-Flite, Pelphrey was directly involved with the filming of television and film documentaries and several video productions for major corporations in various industries.

"Pelphrey, along with our entire web team, has really helped us with the website," said Steve Day, president of Powr-Flite. "The revenue generated from our website has increased 32 percent over last year, which is quite significant."

The Clean Trust/IICRC continues with ITA plans

VANCOUVER, WA — The Clean Trust (formally the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification — IICRC) continues to move forward with plans to create an independent international trade association.

The plan was initially approved at The Clean Trust executive committee and board of directors' meetings in 2010.

The Clean Trust is in the process of finalizing the structure of the organization, which aims to provide education, programs, services and products to individuals, companies and supporting organizations involved in the inspection, cleaning and restoration industry. The association is expected to launch sometime in 2012.

"The Clean Trust is deeply committed to providing the cleaning, restoration and inspection industry with the tools and resources necessary to grow their businesses and better serve their customers," said Darrell Paulson, The Clean Trust chairman of the board. "This trade association will internationally unify the industry and support collaboration to pursue common goals and interests."