It’s a big year for RIA! This year, the industry will celebrate the 70^th Anniversary of the Restoration Industry Association during the 2016 International Restoration Convention and Industry Expo. This year’s convention is March 21-23 at the Orlando World Center Marriott in Orlando, Fla.

Gain maximum advertising exposure through exhibitor booths while networking with restoration professionals, and taking advantage of educational opportunities.

Plus, the RIA is excited to bring in Judy Ferraro as the keynote speaker. With more than 30 years of sales and leadership experience, and some experience in standup comedy, Judy is guaranteed to entertain and teach, all at once. She will focus on the importance of listening, asking good questions, and having the ability to laugh.

Looking for ways to reach RIA members? Contact Emilia Phillip at ephilip@restorationindustry.org for advertising and sponsorship opportunities at our other events.

OSHA Holds Public Meeting on New Voluntary Safety and Health Program Management Guidelines

On Dec. 9, OSHA held a public meeting at the Department of Labor in Washington, D.C. to discuss its revised Safety and Health Program Management Guidelines, which are voluntary guidelines for employers. Dr. David Michaels, Assistant Secretary of Labor for Occupational Safety and Health, led the meeting and sough input on the guidelines, which are currently in draft form. In addition to seeking general input and guidance from stakeholders, Dr. Michaels explained that OHSHA was seeking answers to five key questions as well:

1.What is your experience with safety and health programs or management systems?

2.How well do they work?

3.What were the challenges?

4.What factors made them succeed?

5.How can OSHA’s guidelines be an instrument of change in the culture of the U.S. workplace?

OSHA set the deadline for public feedback for Feb. 14. There will be a second public meeting on this issue in March, and another opportunity for stakeholders to be heard.

Xactware’s 2015 Property Report Available This Month for RIA Members

Xactware’s Property Reports for the United States, Canada, and United Kingdom are invaluable resources for any professional who wants to better understand the year-over-year trends that are unfolding in the property insurance industry. With in-depth overviews of developments in claims estimates and building cost rates, Xactware’s property reports provide useful information that can help you learn from the past as you prepare for the future. While you wait for the 2015 report to be posted, be sure to check out previous reports to see industry trends and changes.

To access the report as an RIA member please contact RIA at info@restorationindustry.org.

RIA Membership Committee Launches Young Professional Restorers’ Committee

The Young Professional Restorers’ Committee (YPRC) of the RIA Membership Committee seeks to inspire, connect, and educate the next generation of restoration industry professionals. The YPRC provides insight to the needs and preferences of the next generation of restoration professionals. Members act as advocates for RIA, promoting the benefits of RIA membership to their peers, and work with other RIA members to establish a diverse network of restoration professionals.

To find out more information contact Meghan Czaikoski at mczaikoski@restorationindustry.org to reach Chair Ben Justensen.