ASHRAE’s first certification program is now available in testing centers in 22 countries.

The certification, health care facility design professional, is a computer-based examination.

“An indoor environment that is safe, comfortable and enhances productivity at minimum impact to the environment is a basic need throughout the globe,” said Richard Hayter, chairman of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers’ certification committee. “One way by which ASHRAE addresses that need is through its certification programs.”

In addition to the United States and Canada, the exam is now offered in Australia, China, Egypt, Guam, India, Italy, Japan, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

Applicants first apply for the examination through ASHRAE, and if they meet the qualifications, register for the examination at a testing center.

The program identifies individuals with the knowledge to successfully design and operate health care facilities. Future certifications are planned for sustainable facility design, commissioning, and operations and maintenance.

The technical content for the exam was developed in cooperation with the American Society for Healthcare Engineering of the American Hospital Association.

Membership in ASHRAE is not required to participate. A list of recommended resources on health care facility design is available. In addition, ASHRAE will offer an exam March 10 in Orlando, Fla.

For more information, visit www.ashrae.org/certification.