The first-ever Forensics Technical Conference was a huge success. Every open spot for the late October conference in Newport Beach, Calif., was taken. Attendees learned from industry veterans about new processes, equipment, chemicals, and other innovations in the world of forensics restoration. The conference offered more than two dozen sessions covering project planning, biology 101, how to handle unattended deaths, infection control, and a whole lot more.

This conference wasn’t about sitting at a desk all day. Attendees suited up in full hazmat gear, and got hands-on experience cleaning biological material out of flooring.

In early November, organizers held a debrief on how they felt the entire event played out – and have received a lot of positive feedback.

Be on the lookout for an in-depth article on forensics restoration from one of the organizers of this conference in the February issue of R&R.

RIA Goes Down Under

RIA also hosted two Building Science courses in Australia in mid-October. One class alone drew in more than 50 restoration professionals. RIA’s participation shows their commitment to Australian members, a total that has more than doubled in 2015.

Plus, the organization hosted RIA Day at the AusClean trade show. This was the first time the organization has ever exhibited at an overseas show, and was represented by First Vice President Chuck Violand.

Water Loss Specialist Course Hosted by Interlink Supply Baltimore

Interlink Supply in Glen Burnie, Maryland, hosted the Restoration Industry Association’s annual Water Loss Specialist (WLS) preparatory course on Oct. 12-14. The WLS program is the restoration industry’s premier certification for those engaged in water  loss and structural drying. Attendees learned about the use of moisture detection instrumentation, the application of  pychrometrics , risk management and the use of contracts and other legal principles restoration project mangers  deal with in their daily operations.

Act Now! RIA Board Nomination Deadline is Dec. 31

The RIA is now accepting nominations for the 2016-17 Board of Directors. Are you an RIA member? Then be thinking about who around you – perhaps even yourself – would be a good candidate to serve on the board. This is a great way for members to shape how the organization evolves, and its policies. It is also a great way to give back to the industry.