Issue link: http://psai.uberflip.com/i/834414
WEEKLY EDITION JUNE 7, 2017 Industry Excellence and the Role of the PSAI By PSAI Executive Director Karleen Kos Whether it is a serious issue like the recent court case with Diamond Environmental Services (see page 1) or something more minor like a portable restroom operator that provides substandard service, the PSAI is there to help the industry be its best. 1. Our Code of Excellence tells the public what they should be able to expect from a portable restroom provider. All PSAI Member companies are asked to commit in writing each year to following it. If a Member company violates the Code there is a procedure for addressing concerns aimed at ensuring fair treatment and due process for everyone involved. 2. We provide portable sanitation-specific training and credentialing for people working in the industry. Through programs like our Basic Service Technician Training Course, online courses covering seasonal topics, and our professional certification designation, individuals working in the industry can be assured they know what the best practices are and how to operate within the law. 3. We create standards and resources on industry-related topics to assist operators in doing a great job. Whether we use a complex process and issue a standard consistent with the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) guidelines or we employ a quicker process to develop a resource on a hot topic using expertise from within the PSAI membership, the PSAI takes the lead in creating and communicating vital information to help operators make the best decisions they can in providing service. 4. We answer dozens of requests for information from government agencies and other planners, helping them to understand the industry so they can create better policies regarding the number, location, and servicing of portable restrooms required for scenarios in their communities. 5. We respond to complaints in the press and on social media. Whether a company such as Proctor and Gamble is using a supposedly stinky portable restroom to sell air freshener, the police are concerned about do-it-yourself potties outside a Jimmy Buffet Concert, or some blogger is opining about the placement of portable units on a hiking trail, PSAI gets the word out about our industry and how to maximize the likelihood of a great experience. 6. We provide materials to help industry members spread good information about using portable restrooms. Our website has a whole section called "Portable Sanitation and You" specifically addressing the concerns of the general public. We also have informational decals for units, pamphlets and flyers operators can purchase to help educate their customers and communities. Check out our catalogue here. Portable sanitation is not unique in having issues come up that can reflect badly on the industry as a whole. In any business there are always "rock star" companies that do a great job, set a positive example and rise to the top, as well as some companies whose way of doing things can harm everyone else. Like other trade associations, the PSAI is ill-suited to playing the role of "enforcer." We strive to improve the portable sanitation industry shining a light of what excellence is and providing everyone a path to achieving it. PAGE 3 Don't miss next week's edition of Association Insight where we will continue our coverage of the 2017 Annual Survey Results!