What is IKECA?
IKECA is an international trade association representing kitchen exhaust cleaning specialists and inspectors of commercial kitchen exhaust systems.
History and Mission of IKECA
The International Kitchen Exhaust Cleaning Association (IKECA) was founded in 1989 when a small group of exhaust kitchen exhaust cleaning specialists were attending the same meeting. They found that they all had similar needs and beliefs in the importance of proper and complete exhaust cleaning to the fire protection world. Within two years, these founders had created the first trade association for the kitchen exhaust cleaning Industry.
In 2009, IKECA joined the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) as a standards developer. This allowed IKECA to help develop definitive standards for cleaning, inspecting, and maintenance of commercial kitchen exhaust systems. Those standards have now been accepted by ANSI and some have been referenced by other ANSI organizations (National Fire Protection Association, International Code Council) as well as jurisdictions across the US.
This is just the beginning. With members all over the world, IKECA is bringing its core beliefs and ethical standards to every part of the globe and continuing to lead the industry in certification and continuing education.
Explanation of Certification
The kitchen exhaust industry is growing at a rapid pace and technology is changing all the time. IKECA has developed certification programs to provide individuals with the means to keep on top of the changes in codes, standards and technology that affect everyone in the industry.
There are two certifications, both of which are held by employees of Apex Hood Cleaning:
CECS: Certified Exhaust Cleaning Specialist
The Certified Exhaust Cleaning Specialist (CECS) is designed for the highly experienced and knowledgeable individual who leads others on their crew. Every Active Member of IKECA must have at least one employee certified as a CECS level or higher.
CECT: Certified Exhaust Cleaning Technician
The Certified Exhaust Cleaning Technician (CECT) is the start of your crew members’ career in being certified in the kitchen exhaust cleaning industry, designed for crew members operating under the supervision of a Certified Exhaust Cleaning Specialist (CECS).
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