Recreation Facility Environmental Services Management

The Recreation Facilities Environmental Services Management (RFESM) course builds on the original Certified Ice Technician (CIT) training modules which focused on the importance of “an ice facility being cold and dry”. The advancements and modernization in ice sheet air handling equipment requires facility operators who have an advanced working knowledge of these principles and the integrated automation software applications and challenges that control this equipment. The information gained in this course will help operators better comprehend how air management equipment interrelates with the refrigeration equipment and influences ice conditions. Integration will maximize equipment performance, lifecycle and assist in the reduction of controlled energy consumption. Participants will leave with a working knowledge of the science and mechanical application of air exchange ideologies and the importance of internal maintenance of the equipment that balances with service contractor investment. The end result will be a safe and durable artificial sporting ice with an additional return on investment of reduced operational costs through basic monitoring and adjustment. The information is also considered applicable to aquatic facility indoor air quality operations and management.

This course is facilitated by the Ontario Recreation Facilities Association (ORFA) who utilize a variety of industry subject matter leaders who will share their practical knowledge on how technology is improving, and challenging ice rink operations. Participant interaction is encouraged as we all learn how this responsibility is shaping the industry.

Topics will include:

• Recreation facility air flow design and challenges.
• Building health through proper operations and maintenance.
• The risk and impact of biofilm, mould, legionella and other viruses and bacteria that can lurk in a facility.
• Maintenance activities that can make a difference in indoor air quality.
• Theory of energy consumption and practical efficiencies.
• Designing short-and long-term maintenance plans to maximize equipment performance and longevity.
• The role of lifecycle planning and the no/low costs tools that can yield large returns on investment.

The training concludes with an online final assessment that allows participants 30-days post course participation to complete. Participants who have completed the Certified Ice Technician professional designation accreditation will be well positioned to comprehend this course content. 

This course is worth 28 professional development credits towards recertification of any ORFA professional designation.