What Type of Training Is Required to Work With Hazardous Waste?

The U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health require comprehensive general hazardous material, or "hazmat," training for all workers, managers and specialists exposed to hazardous waste. This training is required for companies that use hazardous substances and facilities that conduct treatment, storage and disposal operations. Specialty training is required for people involved in management, emergency response and cleanup.

General Training

Initial general training consists of at least 40 hours of classroom training and a minimum of three days of supervised field experience. Eight-hour refresher training is required annually. Workers only occasionally exposed to hazardous materials, such as groundwater testers, require 24 hours of classroom training and one day of supervised field training. General training subjects include worksite hazards, use of personal protective equipment, emergency procedures and recognizing symptoms of exposure. Other workers receive an additional eight hours of training on subjects including the company's safety and health program, accident containment and hazard monitoring.

Emergency Response

OSHA has defined five levels of emergency response personnel. First responder awareness level training is for people assigned to recognize a hazardous substance emergency, notify management and initiate appropriate response procedures. First responder operations level training is given to personnel assigned to contain the emergency and prevent exposure to personnel. Hazardous materials technicians are trained to stop the release of hazardous substances by conducting repairs to pipes, tanks or valves. Hazardous materials specialists are trained to have more specific knowledge of the released substance, assist technicians and liaise with government agencies concerning the release. The on-site incident commander is trained to take control of the site. He or she must understand the risks involved, and ensure that personnel are decontaminated if necessary, evacuated and safe. Training at each level is supplemented with periodic field drills to simulate real emergencies. Hazardous materials technicians and specialists may be employees or outside contractors hired by the company.

Cleanup Operations

Cleanup operations after a hazardous waste release include decontaminating personnel and equipment. Decontamination stations include showers and medical monitoring. Equipment decontamination can be done with neutralization chemicals or steam sterilization. Cleanup operations personnel receive extensive training on the properties of various hazardous substances, decontamination procedures and use of testing and monitoring equipment.

Visitors

Visitors to a work site are required to receive training on hazard recognition, a general understanding of the company's health and safety plan, and how to conduct themselves in a safe manner while on the site.

References

• U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Training Requirements in OSHA Standards and Training Guidelines
• Occupational Safety and Health Administration: Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Occupational Safety and Health Guidance Manual for Hazardous Waste Site Activities