KEEP UP ON YOUR CERTS

Hermanos y hermana,

I hope everyone is doing well. As work continues to pick up, I want to remind everyone about the importance of keeping your certifications up to date.

Although drywall finishers are not required to have certifications in order to go to work, many general contractors are now requiring workers to have specific certifications before they are allowed on certain projects. For our painters, certifications are required in order to be dispatched.

Currently, painters must have the following certifications in order to be dispatched to work:

• Booms and Lifts
• Protección contra caídas
• Scaffold
• Minimum OSHA 10
• Capacitación sobre acoso

Please make sure these certifications are current so there are no delays when dispatch opportunities come up.

Another important thing to keep in mind is that this is a contract year. In the event that we were to go on strike, all members would need to be re-dispatched once the strike is over in order to return to work. That means everyone will need to have these certifications completed before the end of the contract so that, if a strike occurs, members can return to work as quickly as possible once it is resolved.

Beyond meeting dispatch requirements, there are several other important reasons why keeping up on certifications benefits all of us in the painting and drywall finishing industry.

Building Client Trust

Clients increasingly look for contractors who prioritize safety and professionalism. Safety certifications show that a company takes its responsibilities seriously. This is especially important for commercial projects, government contracts, and large construction sites where certified workers are often required before work can begin.

Reducing Costs and Liability

Workplace accidents can be extremely costly. Injuries can lead to medical expenses, lost work time, insurance claims, and potential legal issues. Safety certifications help reduce these risks by ensuring workers understand proper procedures, equipment use, and jobsite safety practices.

Insurance providers also tend to view companies with trained and certified workers more favorably, which can sometimes help reduce insurance costs over time.

Strengthening the Industry

Maintaining strong safety standards benefits the entire painting and drywall finishing industry. When contractors and workers commit to proper training and certifications, it raises the level of professionalism across the trade. Skilled, safety-conscious workers help create safer job sites while also delivering higher-quality work.

Conclusión

Safety certifications are an important part of professionalism in our trade. They help protect workers, ensure compliance with jobsite requirements, improve work quality, and build trust with contractors and clients.

Keeping certifications current is not just about meeting dispatch requirements—it is about protecting ourselves, supporting our industry, and making sure we are always ready when work opportunities come up.

En solidaridad,

William Gonzalez