R. Calvin Rasmussen is the 2024 CETA [Cleaning Equipment Trade Association] president and tells us about the plans the organization has for 2024. Rasmussen is the CEO of Royce Industries, L.C., headquartered in West Jordan, UT.

“First and foremost, CETA will continue to build on its strong foundation of advocating for industry standards, playing a consistent role in regulatory influence, and being the top resource for distributors in the cleaning equipment and related products industry for information,” says Rasmussen.

That information encompasses resources that assist members as they improve profitability, keep pace with technical and regulatory changes, network to establish best practices, or strengthen their employee and ownership teams. All initiatives of the association aim to add strength to each member company.

There are several ongoing efforts in the technical and regulatory realm. In the broadest context, members can be sure that a focus on regulations and standardization remains acute.

The CETA-sponsored Technical Harmonization Committee (THC 335H) will carry on with work on the harmonization of UL 1776, UL 60335-2-79, CAN/CSA C22.2 No. 68, CAN/CSA B140.11, and CAN/CSA E60335-2-79 to complete UL/CSA 60335-2-79, which is Particular Requirements for High Pressure Cleaners and Steam Cleaners. “This initiative is truly on the ‘two-yard’ line,” says Rasmussen.

Slated for review in 2024 is CPC 100, the CETA Performance Standard. “The standard will go through some enhancements that may include battery certification standards and a more comprehensive application process,” says Rasmussen.

Work with the Californian Air Resources Board (CARB) to provide relevant industry feedback on important regulations, such as those for small off-road engines (SORE), will be ongoing. As the transition that California and other states are making to zero-emission equipment (ZEE) moves forward, thoughtful and sustained industry feedback is crucial.

For example, Rasmussen says it may be possible to persuade CARB to reconsider the status of pressure washers with gasoline-fueled engines that operate at less than 25 horsepower. If categorized as essential tools, such engines could receive exemption from the SORE rule.

In the business logistics sphere, CETA members will be able to avail themselves of familiar benchmarking and continuing education programs as well as regional meetings. A reconsideration—and possible reintroduction—of an industry-wide service flat-rate program will be undertaken.

Rasmussen looks ahead to a vibrant year for CETA, one that will culminate with PowerClean® 2024 (October 29 to November 4, 2024, in Orlando, Florida, at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort). CETA will again partner and colocate with PWNA.