The Alliance for Chemical Distribution (ACD) launched an all-new professional certificate program, the Responsible Distribution Accreditation Series. This new program offers third-party verification and credible recognition of industry professionals who have studied and earned a deeper knowledge of the ACD Responsible Distribution™ program. 

Years in the making, the certificate series acknowledges the leaders who help their companies thrive under ACD Responsible Distribution and who exemplify continuous improvement, leadership, and a commitment to environment, health, safety, security, and sustainability (EHS&S).

The series features three progressive levels: RD Operations Professional (RDOP), which is available now; RD Operations Specialist (RDOS), coming soon in 2026; and RD Operations Expert (RDOE), which will be available by 2028.

The RDOP certificate is met by participating in a self-paced course designed for Code Coordinators, EHS&S professionals, operations leaders, and warehouse staff. The program covers Responsible Distribution 2023 Fundamentals, the ACD Responsible Distribution 12 Codes of Management Practice, chemistry basics, and tools for third-party verification success. 

“For more than three decades, ACD’s Responsible Distribution™ has been a trusted, comprehensive set of standards demanding continuous improvement in every phase of chemical distribution,” said Joe Donadoni, ACD senior vice president of development and ASK executive director. “By creating a tiered accreditation series, we can ensure our members demonstrate the highest expertise, stewardship, and professionalism today and beyond. We applaud the early adopters of this program and hope to see other operational professionals solidifying their commitments to Responsible Distribution and operational excellence.”  

Industry professionals interested in earning these new credentials can enroll in the Responsible Distribution Accreditation Series through ACD U here, powered by ASK Distribution Consulting.

During ACD’s 2025 ChemEdge Trade Show and Conference, the inaugural group of eight RDOP certified professionals were recognized as the first of their peers to earn this new credential in the Responsible Distribution Accreditation Series. 

Industry feedback has been strong for the certificate program. “This is a great course and highly recommended, whether you are new to RD or have been around for a long time,” said Jaime Strauch, Pride Chemicals Solutions Inc. headquartered in Holtsville, New York. “I found it to be very informative and challenging. Even if you have been around a while and are familiar with the codes, do not take the final exam for granted — there are definitely some tricky questions, and this course helps you prepare!”

“The course curriculum was written perfectly and would be beneficial for industry professionals at all levels,” said Keith A. Plante, Astro Chemicals Inc, based in Springfield, Massachusetts. “The self-paced ability to take the course allows for interruptions and to be able to pick up where you left off. I highly recommend taking the course.”

To learn more about the Responsible Distribution Accreditation Series, click here. 

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