Sweeping - December 2024

DECEMBER 2024

SWEEPING THE JOURNAL OF CHIMNEY AND VENTING TECHNOLOGY

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

CLEARANCE

TABLE OF

Contents

Wishing you a joyous holiday season!

5

Letter From the President What the NCSG has been up to in 2024: safety, education, business development, and advocacy.

6

Convention Registration Open Now Discover this year’s keynote speaker and how to get the most bang for your buck on registration timing and hotel rooms.

8

Education Update Bob Ferrari shares some more background on the OSHA-NCSG settlement on fall protection.

10

Year in Review Reflecting on the past year with Executive Director Kailah Schmitz.

16

The Road to Progress Despite its romantic allure, progress rarely follows a straight path.

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Making Your Website ADA Compliant ADA compliance may be another opportunity for our industry to shine.

29

Regional Updates What’s going on with sweeps around the country?

D E C E M B E R 2024

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Darwin Award

Have you ever seen some interesting things on the job?

Submit a photo with your name and location to marketing@ncsg.org.

SWEEPING THE JOURNAL OF CHIMNEY AND VENTING TECHNOLOGY

NATIONAL CHIMNEY SWEEP GUILD 1255 SW Prairie Trail Parkway Ankeny, Iowa 50023-7068 (317) 837-1500

December 2024, Volume 48 #11

Staff Kailah Schmitz, CAE, Executive Director director@ncsg.org

Classified Ads Free Classified Ads for NCSG Members National Chimney Sweep Guild (NSCG) members can run one 35-word classified ad for free each calendar year. 36+ words are $1 per word after. Additional ads are $1/word or $2/word for non-members. Classified ads are non-commissionable and must be pre-paid. To place a classified ad, e-mail marketing@ncsg.org.

Policy ACTION CENTER Let us know what’s going on!

Submit industry concerns to NCSG’s Policy Action Center. We post live on the website and look into how we can take action. While you’re there, you can also check out the blog for past issues we’ve addressed. Check your email and Facebook to stay up to date!

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

Jessica Thornton, Associate Director and Certifications Coordinator jessica@ncsg.org Bob Ferrari, Director of Education education@ncsg.org Sydney Kaizer, Director of Marketing and Communications; Sweeping Editor marketing@ncsg.org Brittney Burton, Membership and Events Coordinator bburton@ncsg.org Libby Almendarez, Membership and Certifications Coordinator office@ncsg.org

DISCLAIMER The views expressed in Sweeping do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) or its staff.

ADVERTISING To advertise, email Malisa Minetree at sweepingads@me.com or call (317) 603-7854.

NCSG further reserves the right to reject at any time any advertising determined not to be in keeping with the publication’s standards. Acceptance of advertising by Sweeping does not necessarily constitute endorsement of products or services advertised. NCSG does not make any effort to review or substantiate claims made by advertisers.

PHOTOGRAPHY Stock images by iStock, Adobe.

ARTICLE SUBMISSION NCSG encourages industry partners to submit press releases and articles to the editor at marketing@ncsg.org. Submissions should contain items of interest or importance to the chimney and venting industry. Submissions should not contain direct solicitations, prices, or other forms of advertising verbiage. Submissions may contain images or artwork attached in a JPG format.

In all cases, NCSG reserves the right to edit submissions for space limitations, keep the release and publish at a later date, or refuse to publish the release for any reason.

Neither publishing, nor refusing to publish the submission should be considered a statement of NCSG’s opinion regarding the release. © 2024 National Chimney Sweep Guild

LETTER FROM THE

President

L

et’s welcome our extended chimney sweep family for this month’s issue of Sweeping as we highlight what we’ve been up to for the past year. The National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) benefits all sweeps in the United States – not just our members – with our ongoing commitment to our mission, which is to promote safety, education, business development, and advocacy for the chimney and venting industry.

Safety We are getting closer to releasing our manual on fall protection, which is required by our settlement with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) from last year.

This document will have all of the information you need to stay compliant.

Education Our virtual reality (VR) training platform continues to grow with additional modules. First introduced at the March 2024 NCSG Convention & Trade Show, we consider this to be another educational first for our trade, offered exclusively by the NCSG. Using a Meta Quest headset from the safety and affordability of your own office, your new hire will be on the road to become a Certified Chimney Professional (CCP) in no time.

Additionally, the NCSG also supports customer service representative (CSR) training with our CSR 360° classes, teaching the principles of air movement through a home with our traveling heat and moisture (HAM) house model, supports state and regional guilds, and provides hands-on training opportunities with our annual Chimney Expo each August. We hope to see you at one of these events; it’s well worth the investment!

Business Development We provide business development classes every year at convention. This year, we’re heading to Cincinnati, OH on March 4-8 for the 2025 NCSG Convention & Trade Show (more information on page 6). Many of the leaders in our industry will teach you the ins and outs of their specialty. Visit ncsgconvention.org for a full agenda.

Advocacy The NCSG is the leading advocate for the chimney and venting industry. Through close monitoring of state and federal policy and active involvement with code and standards, the Advocacy Committee, chaired by Debbie Wiedwald, protects members’ interests long term.

The previous November 2024 issue of Sweeping is dedicated to sharing all of our advocacy efforts from the past year. ■

Bill Thornton, President, National Chimney Sweep Guild

D E C E M B E R 2024

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

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D E C E M B E R 2024

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Education UPDATE T

he National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) made its first attempt to work with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in 2006. There was a great outlay in legal fees and volunteer time to come up with fall protection standards which would work in the residential chimney service world.

In December 2007, a draft proposal with “common sense” rules was submitted, but at that time – and again in October of 2008 – the government was unwilling to make concessions.

In 2010, OSHA issued a “Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Walking Working Surfaces,” which contained the general industry fall protection requirements. The NCSG submitted numerous written comments and testified at several public hearings spanning many years. In 2016, OSHA finalized and published the “Final Rule for Walking Working Surfaces.” No NCSG suggestions were incorporated into this ruling.

In 2017, after being shut out of the final regulations and having appealed in person, the NCSG filed a lawsuit against OSHA. More meetings were held, the last in June 2023 in Washington D.C. OSHA and the NCSG came to a legal agreement on December 1, 2023. The agreement may be read in full on the NCSG website. This agreement is in effect as of December 1, 2024, and all businesses performing chimney service work falling under the general industry standard are subject to it, whether they are NCSG members or not.

Over the 17 years, the chimney sweep members of the NCSG have chipped in their dollars through their membership to challenge the rules. Thank you! It has been a labor for the betterment of the entire industry not just for members. Volunteers working on this over the years include Mark McSweeney, Larry Halprin, Ashley Eldridge, Billy Sweet, Toby Brown, Bob Ferrari, Bill Thorton, and the one person whose tireless efforts on our behalf have spanned the entire 18 years to date – Jim Brewer.

The NCSG did not win all the changes requested, however some significant real work-world concessions were granted that help make it more realistic to comply with OSHA regulations.

The NCSG has written a health and safety manual aimed at helping employers comply with the regulations. The manual is intended to be used as a National Trade Association Standard of Care to help protect our members should they be subject to an OSHA field inspection. Look for it to be published soon.

We believe that each one of us should get home for dinner with our loved ones, uninjured. We believe our personal safety is just as important as the safety and security we provide for our customers. We believe that “sweeps luck” comes through intentional actions.

The NCSG upholds high standards for ethics and integrity which translates into caring for yourself, your customers, your fellow-workers, and the properties entrusted to your care.

Sweeps luck and safe wandering among the chimneys of America. ■

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

year in review

Chimney sw eeps take ov Orlando for the 2024 con er vention!

Taking th

e virtual r on a wor eality program ld tour

By Kailah Schmitz, Executive Director, National Chimney Sweep Guild

A

s we reflect on a year filled with dedication and growth, the National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) stands as a steadfast advocate for integrity, service, and professionalism, all in support of those servicing America’s chimneys. In 2024, we fortified our commitment to support our members in their daily work and advance our industry standards through advocacy, education, certification, and more. Let’s look back on the year’s milestones.

Hands-on training at Chimney Expo in Pennsylvania

Advocacy Grassroots Advocacy and Government Relations Our grassroots and government relations work remained a powerful vehicle for advancing industry issues, from local-level discussions to national policy influence. This year, NCSG continued its advocacy efforts, empowering members to voice their concerns and influence critical decisions impacting the chimney and hearth industries.

Learning abou pressure t home air wit HAM Ho h the use

International Relations (ESCHFOE) In 2024, we invested in our international relationships through ongoing collaboration with the European Federation of Chimney Sweeps (ESCHFOE). This alliance allows us to exchange ideas, align standards, and promote safety innovations that benefit the global community of chimney professionals.

Codes and Standards Representation Our presence on the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) code councils – NFPA 211, 54, and 31 – has remained essential to representing chimney professionals.

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

Boar NCSGd and sta ff and U.S. member s at ES CHF represen OE i t n Pr the ague

By contributing our expertise to these influential groups, we help establish standards that enhance both the quality and safety of our industry.

NCSG and OSHA Sign Fall Protection Rules Agreement In a landmark achievement, NCSG and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) reached a comprehensive settlement on fall protection rules. This collaborative success updates and clarifies the safety requirements for chimney professionals, setting a new benchmark for workplace safety.

Events NCSG Convention Held in March in Orlando, FL, the 2024 NCSG Convention & Trade Show catered to business owners, offering enriching opportunities to connect, network, and learn. Attendees engaged in businessoriented sessions and made connections that will empower their careers in the years to come.

Chimney Expo August marked the annual Chimney Expo in King of Prussia, PA, which was designed with technicians in mind. Offering hands-on training and in-depth technical classes, the event provided a space for chimney professionals to hone their skills and gain practical, job-ready knowledge.

Education Virtual Reality Training Our commitment to cutting-edge education is embodied by the virtual reality (VR) training program. Where education once had barriers, VR now makes immersive, personalized learning available to everyone. With advanced simulations, we bridge classroom theory and practical experience, a transformative approach that positions us as pioneers in digital learning.

HAM House (Heat and Moisture) The HAM house course delves into the principles of air movement in homes and the impacts on natural draft appliances. By using the HAM house model, this course equips professionals to better educate clients about the behavior of air and moisture under varying conditions, enhancing their service and expertise.

CSR 360° A two-day course developed specifically for customer service representatives, CSR 360° enhances customer interactions and boosts

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Suburban Dwellers is a given living in the country more prone to power outages, but Urban Dwellers the stove is a boom since many don’t have the room for the fuel of a woodstove and woodstoves are not an option for those, but the GAP 2020 gives them that option to burn solid fuel because they can store enough pellet fuel in a closet or garage to get them through a couple months or more with little effort.

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company reputation. Through both structured training and interactive dialogue, this program provides essential tools for representatives to build rapport and trust with customers.

NCSG Apprenticeship Program The NCSG Apprenticeship Program offers a blend of 4,000 hours of on-the-job training and 288 hours of classroom instruction. Accredited by the U.S. Department of Labor, this program helps apprentices gain real-world experience while developing the technical knowledge required to excel in the field.

Certification This year, NCSG reached a major milestone by achieving ANAB accreditation for its Certified Chimney Professional (CCP), Certified Chimney Reliner (CCR), and Certified Chimney Journeyman (CCJ) programs. These certifications, developed with insights from nearly 600 chimney sweeps, are the gold standard in the industry, providing

BY THE NUMBERS

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

assurance that certified professionals possess verified skills and knowledge. The ISO/IEC 17024 accreditation, based on a rigorous Job Task Analysis (JTA), further establishes these certifications’ credibility by ensuring alignment with globally recognized quality, fairness, and impartiality standards. JTA-backed certifications reflect real field competencies, setting a high standard for the industry and fostering member and consumer trust in NCSG-certified professionals.

Member Engagement Connect The NCSG community is a thriving network where members exchange best practices and share experiences unique to the chimney and hearth profession. Beyond business, many members find lifelong friends here.

Influence With a larger membership base, NCSG continues to amplify its voice on policy and regulatory issues.

By collaborating with state, regional, and national organizations, including the Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association (HPBA), we ensure our industry’s interests are represented effectively.

Grow We support members’ professional growth by providing members-only discounts, educational resources, and regular industry updates. By adhering to high ethical standards, NCSG members demonstrate their commitment to quality service, benefiting homeowners and building consumer trust.

Program Administration In 2024, we dedicated ourselves to building a strong foundation for future NCSG leaders through committee involvement, financial management, and strategic planning initiatives. We continue to bring new faces and fresh ideas to NCSG’s leadership, and we remain committed to developing future leaders who will uphold our mission and values for years to come.

As we close another year, we celebrate our accomplishments and the many ways we have advanced our commitment to serve those who service America’s chimneys. Thank you for being part of the NCSG community and for your unwavering dedication to integrity, service, and professionalism. Together, we are building a brighter future for the chimney profession and those we serve. ■

D E C E M B E R 2024

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D E C E M B E R 2024

15

The Road to

Progress

By Bob Ferrari, Director of Education, National Chimney Sweep Guild

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

T

his is the progress issue of Sweeping magazine, a time to reflect on what has been accomplished over the past year.

Accomplishment – constantly striving for a better, higher ideal – is very American. Yet, despite its romantic allure, progress rarely follows a straight, upward path.

“We understand death for the first time when he puts his hand upon one whom we love.”

– Madame de Stael We feel tough times most deeply when we are at the center of the experience. Has this year been tough for you? Across the country, hurricanes, flooding, tornadoes, fires, hailstorms, and other natural disasters have affected many, often in personal ways. The death of a loved one sends us spiraling as we try to regain traction in a new reality. And while these are the national and personal headlines, as small business owners, we also carry the weight of the marginal, the mundane, and the everyday challenges that can bow our shoulders.

“You have every right to be a mess, but let me say this – don’t be a mess all the time, because this planet needs people like you. We need fierce souls with flaming swords that lay open the world to the truth of things – our perilous and

impermanent mutuality, our ferocious resilience, and our acute and heartbreaking preciousness.”

– Nick Cave

From you, who are traveling this messy impermanence, we need your flaming sword, the vulnerability of your wounds, and your “ferocious resilience.” You give us a fearful courage. Though we gather as a community to help one another, in the end, we must each carry our own burden. We alone must rebuild from the rubble of whatever path we’ve been given. This, I think, is what “progress” means – the ability to move forward. It’s not always clear in which direction that movement should go, but it starts with picking up that first emotion, that first piece of scattered wreckage, that last decision, and finding a new place for it.

We are the chimney sweeps. This is our tribe. We love and fight like family. Please, as best as you can, when you are strong, hold me up. And when you need an arm, here is mine. The coming year will bring more tears and more joy – often both at the same time. My prayer is that we progress together, no matter what it brings. ■

D E C E M B E R 2024

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2025 Education & Training* Onsite & Masonry Classes CNTA January 13 - 18 February 3 - 8 April 7 - 12 May 12 - 17 July 14 - 19 August 4 - 9 September 8 - 13 October 6 - 11 CDET January 29 - 31 March 17 - 19 September 22 - 24

Offsite Classes

Hands-On Reline February 12 - 14 Ropes/Roof Access April 14 - 15 Scaffolding** April 16 - 17 Factory Built Changeout June 23 - 24

Success Starts with CSR January 23 - 24 - Ceaser Chimney (New Hampshire)

CSIA® Hands-On Gas May 20 - 22 - Crown Chimney (New Hampshire)

CSIA® 3-Day Masonry March 31 - April 2 - MACA (Finskburg, MD)

Hands-On Reline June 25 - 27 - Ceaser Chimney (New Hampshire)

Carpentry, Chase & Crickets (Richmond, IN) 5-Day Masonry School January 20 - 24 Advanced Fireplace Building Course February 24 - March 1

May 12 - 14 - English Sweep (Missouri)

Factory Built Chimney Install** May 15 - 16 - English Sweep (Missouri)

CCS Review / Exam March 3 NCSG Convention (Cincinnati) March 26 HPBExpo (New Orleans) June 23 MACA (Virginia)

CDET Review / Exam March 26 HPBExpo (New Orleans) For More Information: Visit https://www.csia.org/

*All Dates and Locations subject to change **New Class For Online Training visit https://surefire.academy/

For more information on how to hold a mobile training class, please contact Holly Cox at hcox@csia.org or call 317.837.5362

Learn more about our Class Policies below https://www.csia.org/policies.html

Keep up with changes by following us or visit csia.org for more classes!

18Chimney N C SSafety G SWEEPING MAGAZINE Institute of America

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Discover the Future of the Chimney & Hearth Industry at Our Annual Winter Training Event Leola, PA – Jan 17-18 – The Pennsylvania Guild of Professional Chimney Sweeps is thrilled to announce its annual winter training event, set to take place at the esteemed “Inn at Leola” in beautiful southeastern Pennsylvania on January 17-18.

This year’s event promises to be both informative and inspiring, featuring industry experts who will delve into emerging technologies and best practices in chimney sweeping.

Event Schedule: • January 17:

Break Refreshments and Lunch Buffet provided by the PA Guild.

“The Future of the Chimney and Hearth Industry” Kick off the training with guest speaker Daniel Freeman, owner of "The Chimney Doctor" based in Grand Junction, Colorado. With extensive experience servicing highend markets like Aspen and Vail, Daniel will share invaluable insights on the evolving landscape of the chimney industry.

• January 18:

Break Refreshments provided by the PA Guild.

“Outsource My Life” Learn how to maximize your efficiency with Luis Vanderhorst, founder of "Outsource My Life." This session will focus on helping small business owners streamline processes through technology and dedicated virtual assistance.

“Hearth and Chimney Industry Insurance Do’s and Don’ts” Join Nathaniel Eshleman from USI for a candid discussion on essential insurance topics, including General Liability, Workers Comp, E&O, Pollution, and more. This presentation is tailored for both newcomers and seasoned professionals in the industry.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to enhance your skills and network with fellow professionals! For more information and to register, please visit www.paguild.org.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED Backup representative for NFPA 54 (National Fuel Gas Code) Contact Advocacy Committee Chair Debbie Wiedwald at debbie@blackburnschimney.com if interested.

NCSG members to serve on the Advocacy, Certifications, Education, Events, Membership, and Marketing Committees Visit ncsg.org/join-a-committee to learn more and join a committee.

D E C E M B E R 2024

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Spark YOUR MARKETING Sweeping Changes: Making Your Chimney Service Website ADA Compliant

By Carter Harkins and Taylor Hill, Co-Owners, FutureNow Marketing

A

s chimney sweep professionals, we’re no strangers to regulations and compliance requirements. From safety standards to environmental regulations, our industry knows how to adapt and excel. Now, we face a new challenge: making our websites compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). While this may seem like yet another bureaucratic burden, it’s also an opportunity for our industry to lead the way in digital accessibility.

Understanding ADA Compliance for Websites The ADA, passed in 1990, has expanded its reach to the digital world. This means our websites are now considered “places of public accommodation” and need to be accessible to people with various disabilities. Yes, it’s another box we need to tick, but let’s look at it as a chance to improve our online presence and potentially reach more customers.

Legal Implications of Non-Compliance Let’s face it: the legal landscape around website accessibility is becoming increasingly complex, and it’s crucial for us in the chimney sweep industry to understand the current state of affairs. Here’s what you need to know: • Increasing Litigation: The number of ADA website compliance lawsuits has been rising significantly in recent years. Recent data shows a sharp increase in these cases, putting businesses of all sizes, including those in-home

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

Carter Harkins and Taylor Hill are two of the co-founders of FutureNow Marketing, a human-centric, AI-powered digital marketing company that works primarily with service businesses. They’re also co-authors of the book Blue Collar Proud: 10 Principles for Building a Kickass Business You Love. Both regularly speak at service industry trade shows and conferences across the nation.

services, at potential risk.

• Lack of Specific Guidelines: Here’s where it gets tricky – the ADA itself doesn’t provide detailed technical standards for website accessibility.

The Department of Justice hasn’t issued specific regulations for private sector websites, which has led to some ambiguity. This lack of clear guidelines can make compliance feel like hitting a moving target.

• Court Interpretations: Despite the lack of explicit regulations, both federal and state courts have been applying ADA accessibility requirements to websites. This means that, as business owners, we’re generally expected to have ADA-compliant websites, even without specific rules laid out.

• WCAG as a Standard: While not legally mandated, many organizations and courts use the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) as a reference point for what constitutes an accessible website. WCAG 2.0 Level AA is often considered the target level for meeting legal requirements. Think of this as the “code” we need to follow for our digital properties.

The trend is clear: website accessibility is no longer

optional, even if the exact requirements aren’t set in stone. As frustrating as this ambiguity may be, it’s the reality we face. Rather than viewing this as just another bureaucratic hurdle, let’s see it as an opportunity for our industry to lead the way in digital accessibility.

Key Areas of Website Accessibility So, what exactly needs to change on our websites?

Here are the main areas to focus on: • Visual Elements: Improve color contrast, allow text resizing, and add alternative text for images.

• Audio and Video Content: Add closed captions and transcripts to any multimedia content.

• Navigation and Structure: Ensure keyboard navigation and maintain a clear layout.

• Forms and Interactive Elements: Ensure all interactive elements are usable without a mouse.

Achieving Compliance: Practical Steps We know you’d rather be focusing on chimneys than worrying about website code. Here are some practical steps even non-technical owners can take: • Conduct a Website Accessibility Audit: Use free online tools like WAVE or AChecker for an initial assessment.

• Use Automated Testing Tools: Tools like accessiBe or UserWay can identify and fix common issues.

• Consider Third-Party Plugins: WordPress plugins and other tools can significantly improve your site’s accessibility without requiring extensive technical knowledge.

also an opportunity for our industry to shine. By taking the lead in website accessibility, we can:

• Set ourselves apart from competitors • Demonstrate our adaptability and professionalism

• Potentially tap into new market segments • Future-proof our businesses against changing regulations

Ongoing Maintenance: A Necessary Evil Just like chimney maintenance, website accessibility isn’t a one-and-done deal. Regular checks and updates are necessary to stay compliant. Consider it part of your routine business maintenance – annoying, perhaps, but essential for smooth operations.

Conclusion Yes, making our websites ADA-compliant is another task on our already full plates. But as an industry that prides itself on thoroughness and professionalism, let’s tackle this challenge headon. By doing so, we’re not just ticking a box – we’re positioning ourselves as leaders in our field, ready to serve all customers and adapt to changing times.

Let’s use this bureaucratic necessity as a catalyst for improvement. After all, if we can handle the complexities of modern chimneys, we can certainly make our websites more accessible. It’s time for the chimney sweep industry to lead the way in digital compliance – let’s show them how it’s done! ■

• Work with Specialists if Needed: For more complex changes, consider hiring a professional.

• Implement an Accessibility Statement: Add a page outlining your compliance efforts.

Specific Considerations for Chimney Sweep Websites As chimney professionals, let’s focus on these areas: • Service Descriptions: Keep them clear and easy to understand.

• Appointment Booking Systems: Ensure online scheduling tools are fully accessible.

• Safety Information: Present crucial safety details in multiple formats.

Leading the Way in Compliance While ADA compliance might feel like a burden, it’s

D E C E M B E R 2024

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

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D E C E M B E R 2024

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

PAID ADVERTORIAL

THANK YOU for trusting Owens with your custom projects in 2024.

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D E C E M B E R 2024

27

REVOLUTIONIZING CHIMNEY CARE

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

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Regional UPDATES AT-LARGE

REGION 4

Robby Murphy At-Large Director and Governance Committee Chair

Debbie Wiedwald Region 4 Director and Advocacy Committee Chair

Happy December, National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) family! As a business owner, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel after the last three months. Quality time with family and friends can’t come soon enough!

Are you spending time this month reviewing the progress you made in 2024 and setting goals for 2025? This is a nice time to sit in front of the fireplace to reflect and plan.

The NCSG has made significant strides over the past year, enhancing professional standards and advocating for safety within the industry. One of our key advancements has been the introduction of enhanced training programs aimed at equipping members with the latest techniques and safety practices. The virtual reality (VR) training program is a huge step toward making chimney industry education more safe and accessible.

Additionally, the NCSG has strengthened its advocacy at the legislative level, working toward policies that support the safety standards of chimney professionals and the protection of homeowner interests. By fostering community engagement and promoting best practices, the NCSG continues to elevate the profession’s status while ensuring that its members are well-prepared to meet the challenges of a changing industry. Overall, the advancements made by the Guild reflect a commitment to excellence and safety in chimney care.

Happy holidays from the NCSG family to yours! ■

Have you filled your spring season with any of the industry conferences and hands-on training events?

I hope to see you at the 2025 National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) Convention & Trade Show just down the road from me in Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky in March. If you aren’t happy with 2024 results, fill your upcoming calendar with trainings and networking events. We are extremely blessed to have a wide variety of education opportunities taught by knowledgeable leaders.

I am grateful for the many, many volunteers serving the guild each year to ensure that our industry is thriving. Education, events, certification, apprenticeship, and advocacy efforts happen because NCSG members share their time and skills.

NCSG will continue to improve as more volunteers step in to help. Please consider sharing your talents by serving on a committee or helping at the NCSG convention.

Thank you NCSG staff and volunteers who made 2024 such a remarkable year with the many new initiatives. I look forward to experiencing the upcoming spring and summer events with you! ■

D E C E M B E R 2024

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NEW

Certifications

UPCOMING

Events

from October 2024

Pennsylvania Guild of Professional Chimney Sweeps Annual Winter Training Event January 17-18, 2025 The Inn at Leola Village 38 Deborah Drive, Leola, PA 17540 This year’s winter training event promises to be both informative and inspiring, featuring industry experts who will delve into emerging technologies and best practices in chimney sweeping.

For more info and to register, visit paguild.org.

Colton Brown

Ables Top Hat Home Services

Patrick Chamberlin

Black Moose Chimney and Stove

Anthony Contreras Flue Fighters KC

Owen Groves

Flame Masters Chimney Service

Alias Haagenson Chim Chimney

James Seery

The Chimney Chap

North Central Chimney Guild Winter Workshop January 20-24, 2025 1405 W Taylor Street, Merrill, WI 54452 Join this fun, interactive learning environment with fellow sweeps and industry professionals.

You can look forward to an intro to basic selfrescue, special guest speakers, HAM House home air pressure training, some hands-on masonry training, and more.

Visit thechimneyguild.org to learn more.

Nickolas Starnes Chim Chimney

Golden State Chimney Sweep Guild 2025 Workshop February 15, 2025 3676 West Meyers Road, San Bernardino, CA 92407 Mark your calendars for a great chance to network with your southern California peers!

This workshop will focus on social media marketing and video editing.

To learn more or join the guild, please contact Lezza Medina at (909) 880-2120.

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NCSG SWEEPING MAGAZINE

2024-2025 Board of Directors President; Region 2 Director

Region 5 Director

Wissahickon Chimney & Fireplace wissahickonvalleysweep@yahoo.com

Copper Ridge Chimney copperridgechimney@gmail.com

Bill Thornton

David Steward

Vice President; Region 4 Director

Region 6 Director

Blackburn’s Chimney Sweeps debbie@blackburnschimney.com

Professional Chimney Sweep prochimneymichaele@gmail.com

Debbie Wiedwald

Michaele Dempsey

Treasurer; At-Large Director

At-Large Director

Fireside Sweeps firesidesweeps@comcast.net

Top Hat Chimney and Roofing jake@tophatchimneyandroofing.com

Steve Scally

Jake Cromwell

Secretary; At-Large Director

At-Large Director

Hudson Valley Chimney Service rmurphy@hudsonvalleychimney.com

Smalling Masonry gary.smalling@smallingmasonry.com

Robby Murphy

Gary Smalling

Region 1 Director

At-Large Supplier Rep

Black Moose Chimney and Stove matt@blackmoosechimney.com

New England Chimney Supply drivas@nesbestflex.com

Matt Mair

Doug Rivas

Region 3 Director

James Owens

Owens Chimney Systems james@owenschimneysystems.com

2024-2025 Committee Chairs Advocacy

Ethics

Membership

Blackburn’s Chimney Sweeps

Owens Chimney Systems

Professional Chimney Sweep

Debbie Wiedwald

James Owens

Michaele Dempsey

Bylaws

Events

NFPA 211; NFPA 54

Black Moose Chimney and Stove

New England Chimney Supply

SureFire Training Academy

Matt Mair

Doug Rivas

Jim Brewer

Certification

Governance

NFPA 31; Tech. Advisory Council

Total Chimney Care

Hudson Valley Chimney Service

Fireside Sweeps

Steve Sobczak

Robby Murphy

Steve Scally

Education

Marketing

UL 1390; UL 1391

Copper Ridge Chimney

Top Hat Chimney and Roofing

Freeman Fire

David Steward

Jake Cromwell

Dan Freeman

D E C E M B E R 2024

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