FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Board Led by Mold-Related Illness Specialist, Dr. Andrew Heyman, Supports Marine IAQ Standards and Passenger Safety
[Abita Springs, LA] — The National Organization of Remediators and Microbial Inspectors (NORMI™) has announced the formation of a Medical Advisory Board to guide environmental assessment and remediation protocols in high-occupancy, high-humidity environments—such as cruise ships. This initiative is led by internationally recognized mold and environmental illness expert Dr. Andrew Heyman, MD and aims to provide the cruise industry with health-driven solutions to improve indoor air quality (IAQ) and protect both guests and crew members.
This partnership bridges the gap between environmental remediation and clinical medicine, supporting NORMI’s specialized Level Four Protocol—a process tailored to address microbial contamination in environments with individuals who may be more sensitive to mold, allergens, or chemical exposure.
The Health of Your Passengers is the Health of Your Brand
Onboard health complaints—from unexplained fatigue and sinus irritation to moldy odors and allergic reactions—can severely impact passenger satisfaction, increase liability risk, and result in costly remediation after the fact.
NORMI’s clinically backed remediation approach enables cruise operators to:
- Address cabin and corridor IAQ complaints with confidence
- Respond proactively to health-related concerns onboard
- Maintain higher satisfaction scores and lower legal risk
- Provide documented, validated remediation aligned with healthcare standards
“Today’s cruise guests expect a clean, healthy, and safe environment—and that includes the air they breathe,”
— Doug Hoffman, Executive Director, NORMI™
“This medical collaboration equips cruise lines with the tools to proactively address hidden environmental issues, reduce guest complaints, and reinforce brand trust.”
A Medical Perspective on Maritime IAQ
Cruise ships present unique environmental challenges: limited airflow, continuous occupancy, and persistent moisture make them ideal for microbial growth. The NORMI Medical Advisory Board brings together experts in respiratory health, neurotoxicology, functional medicine, and pharmacy to support remediation that truly considers passenger well-being.
Board Members Include:
- Dr. Andrew Heyman, MD – Medical Director, Integrative Medicine, George Washington University
- Jim LaValle, RPh – Clinical Pharmacist and Metabolic Health Expert
- Ray Solano, RPh – Functional Medicine Specialist
- Dr. Ross, MD – Director, Virginia Institute of Neuropsychiatry
- Allison Remy, PA – Physician Assistant in Environmental Health
“Passengers with chronic illness or heightened sensitivities are at particular risk aboard cruise ships,” said Dr. Heyman.
“Our collaboration with NORMI allows these environments to be cleaned in a way that truly promotes health—not just appearance. Patients are being treated for mold-related illnesses while still exposed to the source. The Level Four Protocol finally gives remediation professionals a clear path forward. The NORMI™ Medical Advisory Board has reviewed the NORMI™ level 4 protocol and validates it as implemented by the NORMI™ trademarked NCRSI™(Certified Remediation for Sensitized Individuals) professional, as medically sound remediation and offers a superior alternative to the industry standard which often fails the needs of sensitized patients.”
The Level Four Protocol: Built for Sensitive Environments
NORMI’s Level Four Protocol, endorsed by the advisory board, provides a structured path to assess and remediate indoor spaces where chemical sensitivities, mold exposure, and airborne contaminants are a concern.
This advanced process goes beyond cosmetic fixes and includes:
- Precision assessments of hidden moisture and microbial contamination
- Specialized remediation for cabins, common areas, and HVAC systems
- Compatibility with IICRC S-520 standards
- Validation procedures to ensure environments meet health-focused benchmarks
Where to Find a Certified NORMI™ Professional
Cruise lines and contractors can now source NORMI-certified IAQ professionals trained in marine and passenger-sensitive remediation through the NORMI Pro Locator:
Each certified professional has undergone extensive training to serve high-risk, high-expectation environments like those found on cruise ships—helping operators avoid unnecessary downtime and elevate passenger experience.
About NORMI™
The National Organization of Remediators and Microbial Inspectors (NORMI™) is a leading certification body for professionals in indoor air quality, mold assessment, and microbial remediation. Through its rigorous training, innovative protocols, and collaboration with medical experts, NORMI supports healthier environments in residential, commercial, and maritime spaces alike.
Learn more at:
www.NORMI.org
www.NORMIPro.com
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