Are you looking to take the next step in your refrigeration career? The Certified Industrial Refrigeration Operator (CIRO) certification is one of the best ways to build your skills, gain credibility, and make a lasting impact in the field.
What is CIRO?
CIRO is an ANSI/ANAB accredited certification that proves you have the knowledge and ability to safely supervise ammonia refrigeration systems. In other words, it is the industry’s gold standard for operator competency.
For operators, it is about more than passing a test. It shows your commitment to safety, gives you confidence in your daily work, and sets you apart as a professional. For employers, it supports compliance requirements, strengthens safety culture, and reduces costly downtime.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, you need at least two years of hands-on experience in plant operations or service. This could include system startups, maintenance, troubleshooting, or supervising. Your experience is verified through RETA’s Verification of Experience (VOE) form, signed by a supervisor or peer.
The Application Process
Getting started is straightforward:
- Complete the RETA CIRO application online
- Submit your VOE form and required documents
- Pay the exam fee
- Schedule your test at a Kryterion Testing Center
- What to Expect on the Exam
The CIRO exam includes:
- 135 multiple choice questions
- 3 hour time limit
- 70 percent minimum passing score
- Topics range from safety and electricity to valves, controls, heat flow, DX and overfeed systems, secondary coolant, and defrost.
CIP’s Recommended Pathway to Certification
RETA provides study guides, books (IR1, IR2, IR4, BE1, BE2), and a practice exam that mirrors the real test. Candidates who take the practice test typically have higher pass rates.
But let’s be honest, balancing your job with certification prep is not easy. That is why we recommend a structured pathway:
- Obtain the required two years of industry experience.
- Complete Operator I and Operator II courses
- Submit CIRO Application
- Attend a CIRO Review Course or thoroughly study RETA IR4, the CIRO Study Guide, and reference materials.
- Take the online CIRO practice exam.
- Study consistently and with intention.
Our Virtual CIRO Prep Class is designed for operators balancing full-time work with certification preparation. The course provides guided instruction, system screen practice, and strategies for using reference materials effectively which helps candidates go into the exam confidently and prepared.
Final Takeaway
CIRO certification is not just a credential. It is an investment in your career, in safety, and in your company’s operations. Whether you are an operator ready to advance or an employer looking to build stronger teams, CIRO makes a measurable difference.
Ready to take the next step? Visit ci.partners/training to see upcoming Operator trainings and CIRO Review Courses.
