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March 21, 2010

Ga. Superintendent recommends CRI-approved cleaning products

Dalton Daily Citizen

DALTON — In an effort to improve the cleanliness of local school districts and stretch public funds, Georgia Schools Superintendent Kathy Cox has recommended implementing the Carpet and Rug Institute’s Seal of Approval testing program for carpet cleaning products.

The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI), the Dalton-based trade association that represents carpet manufacturers, launched the independent Seal of Approval (SOA) testing and certification program in 2004 as a way to identify the most effective carpet cleaning products.

The SOA program certifies effective and environmentally responsible carpet cleaning solutions, vacuums, extractors and cleaning systems. Consumer and commercial products are independently tested and lists of qualifying products are posted on the CRI Web site, www.carpet-rug.org. In addition, carpet cleaning professionals certified as SOA service providers are listed on the Web site by ZIP code and geographic area.

In a letter to Georgia’s 190 district superintendents, Cox noted that the CRI testing and certification program could help districts maximize cleaning and maintenance budgets by guiding them to the most effective products. This, in turn, would save money by reducing labor costs and extending the useful life of carpet.

“In an era when school budgets are especially tight, it is my sense that using CRI Seal of Approval-certified products and equipment will save school districts money,” Cox said. “CRI does not make, distribute or sell any of these products; it simply tests for performance to assure that the best products are being used to maintain carpet.”

Dalton Public Schools has put in place the SOA program. At one time, carpets were maintained by school personnel. But as the school system grew, the district hired a local SOA-certified service provider and invested in SOA-approved vacuums. On-site “spotting teams” respond to spills and stains immediately, using SOA-approved spot cleaning solutions.

“Clean, safe schools enhance teaching and learning,” said Belinda Parrish, the Dalton Public Schools maintenance chief. “A clean environment is as important to a student’s success as a good breakfast.”

For more information about the SOA program or carpet maintenance plans for schools, visit www.carpet-rug.org.

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