Top 10 Custodial Worker Certifications

Certifications are important for custodial workers in the job market because they demonstrate that a worker has the necessary knowledge and skills to do the job well. Employers want to know that their employees have the appropriate training and qualifications to do the work efficiently, safely, and effectively. Certifications show potential employers that a custodial worker is knowledgeable about proper cleaning techniques, safety protocols, and industry standards. Additionally, certifications can help custodial workers stand out from other applicants in the job market by showing that they have taken steps to further their professional development.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Custodial Workers and explains how they can contribute to a custodial worker's career by providing them with additional knowledge and skills.

What are Custodial Worker Certifications?

Custodial worker certification is a type of professional certification designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a certain level of proficiency in the cleaning and maintenance of buildings and other facilities. The certification is typically awarded by organizations that specialize in custodial services and is often required for employment.

Custodial worker certification ensures that custodians are properly trained in the safe use of cleaning products, proper sanitation techniques, and best practices for maintaining cleanliness. It also provides employers with assurance that their employees have the necessary skills to keep buildings, offices, or other facilities in good working order. Certification can also help custodians demonstrate their knowledge and skill set when applying for jobs or promotions within their current facility.

In addition to providing employers with assurance of a workers’ ability, custodial worker certification can also be beneficial to the employee themselves. Having a certification may open up more job opportunities, as employers are more likely to hire certified professionals over those without any qualifications or certifications. It can also lead to higher wages due to increased job security, as well as greater job satisfaction from having a recognized qualification under one’s belt. Lastly, it can provide a sense of pride for having achieved something valuable at work.

Pro Tip: Before hiring a custodial worker, make sure to check their credentials and certification. Ask for proof of any certifications they may have, such as a Building Service Worker Certificate or Custodial Technician Certification. These certifications will ensure that the worker is adequately trained and qualified for the job.

Related: What does a Custodial Worker do?

Top 10 Custodial Worker Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Custodial Workers today.

1. OSHA 10-hour Certification

OSHA 10-hour Certification is a certification program offered by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The certification is designed to provide safety and health training to employers, supervisors, and employees in the construction industry. It covers topics such as hazard recognition and prevention, accident investigation, recordkeeping, and safety regulations.

The OSHA 10-hour Certification program typically takes about 10 hours to complete. It can be taken online or in a classroom setting. The cost of the program varies depending on the provider; however, most online courses range from $50-$100.

To get OSHA 10-hour Certification, you must first register with an approved provider. Once registered, you will have access to the course materials and will be able to take the exam at your own pace. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive a certificate of completion that is valid for five years.

2. Building Maintenance Technician Certification

Building Maintenance Technician Certification is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform basic maintenance and repair tasks in commercial buildings. The certification program typically includes instruction in areas such as electrical systems, plumbing, HVAC systems, carpentry, painting, and other related topics. It also covers safety practices and regulations that must be followed when performing repairs or maintenance in a building.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the specific program chosen. Some programs can be completed in as little as six months while others may take up to two years or more. In general, most programs require at least 150 hours of classroom instruction combined with hands-on experience working with building systems.

To get certified as a Building Maintenance Technician, you must first complete an accredited training program. Many community colleges and vocational schools offer these programs, so it is important to research your options carefully before making a decision. Once you have completed the required coursework and hands-on experience, you will need to pass an exam administered by the certifying organization in order to receive your certification.

The cost of obtaining Building Maintenance Technician Certification varies depending on the specific program chosen. Most programs charge tuition fees for classes taken and may also include additional costs for textbooks or materials needed for completion of the coursework. Additionally, there may be fees associated with taking the final exam required for certification.

3. Custodial Worker Training Program

A Custodial Worker Training Program is a program designed to provide custodial workers with the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their job duties. The program typically includes instruction on safety, cleaning techniques, equipment operation, and maintenance. It also covers topics such as customer service, communication, and problem-solving.

The length of the training program varies depending on the type of custodial worker being trained. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from one day to several weeks to complete the program. In some cases, an employer may require additional training or certifications for certain types of custodial workers.

To get a Custodial Worker Training Program, you must first contact your local community college or vocational school. Many schools offer these programs as part of their curriculum. You can also find online courses offered by various organizations that specialize in custodial worker training.

The cost of a Custodial Worker Training Program depends on the type of course you choose and the length of time it takes to complete it. Generally speaking, most courses range from $50-$200 per hour or more depending on the complexity of the material covered and any additional certifications required by an employer.

4. Hazardous Materials Management Certification

Hazardous Materials Management Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to safely manage hazardous materials in the workplace. It is designed to ensure that personnel responsible for managing hazardous materials understand the risks associated with their work and can effectively comply with applicable regulations.

The certification process typically takes between one and two years to complete, depending on the individual's experience level. To obtain certification, an individual must complete a series of courses covering topics such as hazardous materials handling, storage, disposal, emergency response, and safety. Upon completion of these courses, the individual must pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying body.

The cost of obtaining Hazardous Materials Management Certification varies depending on the certifying body and the number of courses taken. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars to become certified.

In addition to coursework and exams, some certifying bodies may also require applicants to have certain levels of experience or training in order to qualify for certification. It is important to research each certifying body thoroughly before committing to any particular program in order to ensure that all requirements are met.

5. LEED Green Associate Certification

LEED Green Associate Certification is a professional credential that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals in the field of green building. It is awarded by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) to professionals who demonstrate their understanding of green building principles, practices, and technologies. The LEED Green Associate certification is designed for professionals working in all aspects of the green building industry, from architects and engineers to contractors and facility managers.

The LEED Green Associate exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, location and transportation, innovation in design process, regional priority credits, project management, fundamental commissioning process, and fundamental refrigerant management process. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

To become certified as a LEED Green Associate you must first register with the USGBC website and create an account. Once your account has been created you can purchase access to the exam which costs $200 USD for members or $250 USD for non-members. After purchasing access to the exam you will have 90 days to take it at a testing center near you or online through ProctorU.

Once you have passed the exam you will receive your official LEED Green Associate certification which is valid for two years from the date of passing the exam. To maintain your certification status you must obtain 15 continuing education credits every two years by attending approved courses or completing approved activities related to green building principles and practices.

6. Certified Professional Custodian (CPC) Designation

The Certified Professional Custodian (CPC) designation is a professional credential for custodial professionals who demonstrate the knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform their duties in an effective and efficient manner. The CPC designation is issued by the International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA).

To obtain the CPC designation, individuals must complete a comprehensive training program that covers topics such as cleaning techniques, safety procedures, product selection and use, and customer service. The program consists of two components: online study modules and an on-site exam. The online study modules are available through ISSA's website and can be completed at any time. The on-site exam is administered at select locations throughout the United States.

It typically takes between four to six weeks to complete the training program and receive the CPC designation. Candidates must pass both the online study modules and on-site exam with a score of 80% or higher in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining the CPC designation varies depending on where you take the training program, but it typically ranges from $500-$700 USD.

7. Floor Care Technician Certification

Floor Care Technician Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to properly care for all types of flooring. This certification is designed to ensure that technicians have the necessary skills to provide quality service and maintain floors in optimal condition.

The certification program consists of two courses: Floor Care Technician I and Floor Care Technician II. The first course covers basic floor care, such as cleaning methods, materials, tools, and safety procedures. The second course focuses on more advanced topics like stain removal, grout repair, carpet installation, and more. Both courses must be completed in order to receive the certification.

In most cases, it takes around 8-12 hours to complete both courses. Depending on the provider, these courses may be offered online or in-person at a local training center.

The cost of the Floor Care Technician Certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $100-$200 for both courses combined. Some providers may also offer discounts for those who purchase multiple certifications or complete multiple courses at once.

8. Janitorial Supervisor Certificate

A Janitorial Supervisor Certificate is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and skills in the field of janitorial services. The certificate program provides supervisors with the necessary training to effectively manage their staff, ensure safety, and maintain high standards of cleanliness.

The length of time it takes to get a Janitorial Supervisor Certificate varies depending on the program you choose. Generally, most programs range from six months to two years in length, depending on the amount of coursework required.

To obtain a Janitorial Supervisor Certificate, you must complete a program offered by an accredited institution or organization. You will need to take classes in topics such as safety regulations, cleaning techniques, and management principles. After completing the coursework, you will be required to pass an exam before receiving your certificate.

The cost of obtaining a Janitorial Supervisor Certificate varies depending on the program chosen and can range from $100-$1000 or more. In addition, some programs may require additional fees for textbooks or other materials.

9. Carpet Cleaning Technician Certificate

A Carpet Cleaning Technician Certificate is a certification that demonstrates an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform professional carpet cleaning services. It is typically offered by organizations such as the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC) or The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI).

The length of time it takes to get a Carpet Cleaning Technician Certificate varies depending on the organization offering it. Generally, it can take anywhere from one to three days of classroom training followed by an exam.

To get a Carpet Cleaning Technician Certificate, you must first complete the required classroom training and pass the associated exam. After completing the coursework and passing the exam, you will receive your certificate from the organization offering it.

The cost of obtaining a Carpet Cleaning Technician Certificate depends on which organization you go through for training. Generally, costs can range anywhere from $200-$500 USD depending on the provider.

10. Commercial Cleaning Technician Certificate

A Commercial Cleaning Technician Certificate is a certification that proves the holder has achieved a certain level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of commercial cleaning. The certificate is designed to provide employers with an assurance that the technician has been adequately trained in safety, sanitation, and other important aspects of commercial cleaning.

The length of time it takes to obtain a Commercial Cleaning Technician Certificate depends on the individual's level of experience and the specific program they are enrolled in. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all requirements for certification.

To obtain a Commercial Cleaning Technician Certificate, individuals must typically complete an accredited training program or apprenticeship, as well as pass an exam administered by a professional organization such as the International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA). In some cases, additional certifications may be required depending on the type of job being sought.

The cost for obtaining a Commercial Cleaning Technician Certificate varies depending on the program selected and any additional certifications needed. Generally speaking, most programs cost between $500-$1,000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Custodial Worker Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the specific job you are seeking within the custodial field. Generally speaking, a certificate is not required for most custodial positions. However, depending on the type of work you are seeking, a certificate may be beneficial or even necessary.

For example, if you are looking for a job as a janitor or custodian in a commercial setting, then it is likely that you will need some kind of certification in order to be considered for the position. Many employers require their janitors and custodians to have at least some formal training in order to ensure the safety and cleanliness of their facilities. A certificate program can provide you with this training, giving you an edge over other applicants who lack such credentials.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more specialized role within the custodial field such as carpet cleaning or floor care technician, then it may be necessary to obtain an appropriate certification in order to demonstrate your expertise and knowledge of these particular areas. In addition, many employers may also require certifications from certain organizations in order to validate that you possess the required skills and experience for the job.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a custodial worker certificate depends largely on what type of job you are seeking within this profession. While certificates may not always be required for entry-level positions, they can help give you an advantage when applying for more specialized roles.

Related: Custodial Worker Resume Examples

FAQs About Custodial Worker Certifications

1. What certifications are available for custodial workers?

Answer: The most common certifications are those offered by the International Sanitary Supply Association (ISSA), the Building Service Contractors Association International (BSCAI), and the American Institute of Cleaning Sciences (AICS).

2. How do I become certified as a custodial worker?

Answer: To become certified, you must complete a training program, pass an exam, and receive a certification from one of the organizations mentioned above.

3. Are there any prerequisites to becoming certified as a custodial worker?

Answer: Yes, in some cases you may need to have prior experience in the field or complete an apprenticeship before taking the certification exam. Check with your local organization for more information.

4. How long does a custodial worker certification last?

Answer: Most certifications last for two years before needing to be renewed.

5. What benefits do I get from being certified as a custodial worker?

Answer: Being certified can help demonstrate your knowledge and expertise to potential employers and customers, helping you stand out in the job market and potentially leading to higher wages or better job opportunities.