Trade associations play a big role in supporting the industries they represent. For PROs, the Portable Sanitation Association International is more than a network of members; it is a driving force behind the advancement of the entire field.
Like many trade associations, its influence extends beyond its membership, benefiting the industry as a whole and even impacting those who are not members.
Raising Industry Standards
One of the most critical roles of the PSAI is setting and promoting high standards for professionalism, safety and service. Through initiatives like the “Professionalism in Portable Sanitation” course, PSAI equips service providers with essential knowledge and skills, ensuring they meet rigorous benchmarks.
These standards ripple across the industry, raising customer expectations and encouraging all providers — members and nonmembers alike — to maintain competitive quality. This upward pressure benefits customers and creates a more reliable and respected industry.
A Collective Voice
The portable sanitation industry often works behind the scenes, but its role in public health and sanitation is huge and would surely be noticed if not present. A single person or company may struggle to make a positive impact or change for the industry. But your industry trade association serves as a unified voice, advocating for the industry’s interests with regulators, policymakers and other stakeholders.
As a member of your trade association, you help craft the message with others to have the greatest impact on the industry. Whether it’s influencing regulators or championing the industry’s role during disasters and public events, PSAI’s efforts create a better operating environment for all. Even nonmember companies benefit from these efforts, as the association’s work often leads to broader recognition and support for the industry.
Education and Training
Education and certification are two major ways trade associations elevate the industry they serve. PSAI’s training programs, like the Basic Service Technician Training Series, helps PROs stay on top of the always evolving best practices and regulations so that techs are receiving the best information to do their job safely and well. These programs set a high standard that others in the industry often follow.
Networking and Community
Trade associations are great for connecting people. Events like the International Summit for Portable Sanitation and the Annual Convention & Trade Show give industry professionals a chance to share ideas, solve problems and develop a network of colleagues and mentors. It’s a special advantage to be able to pick up the phone and call an acquaintance from across the state, the country or the world to get their help on a challenge you’re facing.
Affecting Public Perception
How the public perceives the industry and how educated they are about it makes a difference in a PRO’s interactions with clients. While each operator can do their part to better educate the clients they work with and improve the industry image through their own professionalism, having a trade association allows that same work to be done at a much larger scale.
PSAI takes intentional steps to elevate the industry’s image, highlighting its contributions to public health, environmental sustainability and event management. Through public awareness campaigns and partnerships, PSAI aims for the value of portable sanitation to be recognized and appreciated. This improved perception benefits all operators, as customers and stakeholders gain a deeper understanding of the industry’s importance and the work you put in behind the scenes to make their experience safe, pleasant and positive.
A Resource for All
Finally, PSAI serves as a repository of expertise, data and resources. Whether through published research, operational guides or mentorship programs, the association’s contributions often permeate the broader industry. Even nonmembers may find themselves relying on insights and innovations that originated from PSAI’s efforts.
Trade associations like PSAI are vital to the health and growth of their industries. By raising standards, advocating for fair policies, fostering collaboration, and improving public perception, PSAI’s influence extends far beyond its membership.
