Having your chimney swept every year is important, and it is critical that you are using a chimney sweep certified by the CSIA. Founded in 1983, the Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) began as an educational, non-profit organization dedicated to the safety of chimney, fireplace, and venting systems and has developed into the chimney industry standard for certification. The CSIA is committed to reducing the number of hazardous incidents caused by fireplaces, chimneys and venting systems, such as fires and carbon monoxide leaks. CSIA Certified Chimney Sweeps are held to a higher standard both in education and professional behavior than other non-certified sweeps. Choosing a Certified Sweep means that the job will be done right the first time, and you can rest easy knowing you and your family are safe.
Areas of Study
A Certified Chimney sweep must be well-versed in several different areas concerning chimneys, fireplaces, and venting systems. These areas include:
- Chimney operation and function
- The demonstration of the best and most up-to-date practices and procedures in the chimney and venting system industry
- An understanding of the science behind burning wood and how creosote develops
- All applicable codes, clearances, regulations, and standards
- How to install and maintain all solid fuel appliances
- Knowledge of the emission requirements of the US Environmental Protection Agency
The Certification Process
Chimney Sweeps must go through a rigorous process to become certified by the CSIA. In order to receive certification candidates must:
- Participate in an in-person or online review class to prepare for the exam
- Pass a one hour, 100 question exam over Successful Chimney Sweeping (2011) and the NFPA 211
- Pass a 90-minute open book exam over the International Residential Code (2006)
- Pay an annual certification fee
Once a sweep has received their certification they must maintain their certification by taking part in Continuing Education classes to keep them informed of the latest developments in the industry.
Responsibilities and Obligations
A Certified Chimney Sweep has many responsibilities and obligations to both himself as a professional and the customers he serves. When you use a Certified Sweep you can expect a higher level of service and professionalism than non-certified sweeps. This is because a Certified Sweep is required to sign the Code of Ethics laid out by the CSIA at the completion of the exam. These responsibilities include:
- Continuously working on skills, broadening knowledge of the industry, and keeping up-to-date with the latest safety practices for chimneys, fireplaces, and venting systems
- Learning and applying all the recommended safety practices and techniques recommended by the CSIA
- Following all applicable building codes regarding chimney and venting products
- Closely following all the manufacturers’ installation instructions when installing appliances and other parts of a chimney or venting system
- Educating customers by teaching them about chimney and vent safety procedures
- Always treating each customer fairly and never engaging in deceptive or unfair practices
- Behaving professionally and respectfully at all times
Using a Certified Chimney Sweep, like those at Brickliners Custom Masonry & Chimney Services, provides you with peace of mind knowing that your chimney, fireplace, or venting system will be serviced correctly and that you will be treated professionally. Call us today for any chimney servicing issues.
