Executive Housekeepers Sign Agreement With CRI

Contact: CRI Communications Department, 706.428.2103

Dalton, GA. (January 7, 2009 ) The International Executive Housekeepers Association (IEHA) and the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) have signed a joint Memorandum of Understanding designed to help executive housekeepers protect their facilities' long-term carpet investments by increasing IEHA members' involvement with CRI's Seal of Approval programs for cleaning products and service providers.

CRI is the national trade association representing the carpet and rug industry that functions as a source of science-based information on topics such as carpet cleaning and maintenance, as well as carpet's contribution to indoor air quality and environmental sustainability. CRI's Seal of Approval program evaluates cleaning solutions, deep cleaning extractors, deep cleaning systems, and commercial and residential vacuums through rigorous independent testing that meets international standards. Products certified with the CRI Seal of Approval demonstrate the ability to clean effectively while maintaining and protecting carpet's long- term appearance. Seal of Approval also recognizes environmentally responsible products and offers marketing and promotional support for certified Seal of Approval Service Providers.

In the joint memorandum, IEHA agrees to promote the use of SOA-certified products and equipment to its 3,800 members and to incorporate CRI's library of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) into the curricula for IEHA's Certified Executive Housekeeper (CEH) and Registered Executive Housekeeper (REH) designations. CRI's CEUs are recognized by the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the International Interior Design Association (IIDA). In return, CRI will offer IEHA members the opportunity to become SOA-certified Service Providers, and to provide marketing support to those who achieve SOA Service Provider status. Both groups agree to participate in cooperative cross-promotional activities, including joint projects, public relations, and events.

"We see this as an excellent opportunity for our members to achieve additional professional recognition as CRI SOA Service Providers," said IEHA CEO/executive director Beth Risinger. "CRI's Seal of Approval is a valuable program based on independent, third-party scientific testing that reflects IEHA's goals of increased measurement and accountability in housekeeping and facility maintenance."

"The exclusive use of CRI's Seal of Approval products and equipment will increase the useful life of carpet, enhance interior environments from an aesthetic standpoint, and decrease a facility's overall environmental footprint," said CRI president Werner Braun. "We're excited to partner with IEHA."

About the International Executive Housekeepers Association

The International Executive Housekeepers Association (IEHA) is a 3,800-plus professional member organization for persons employed in facility housekeeping at the management level. IEHA was founded in 1930 in New York City, and is now located in Westerville, Ohio. IEHA provides members with leadership and networking opportunities; education and professional certification; employment referral services; technical support, an annual convention and trade show and monthly trade publication, Executive Housekeeping Today. For more information, contact IEHA at (800) 200-6342 or visit their website.