HAZWOPER Training and OSHA Requirements

If you work in or own a business in the industrial sector, HAZWOPER training is something you'll need to become very familiar with. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, has very strict requirements and regulations when it comes to safety in the work place, particularly as it pertains to working with hazardous chemicals. In response to this, the organization developed the Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard, which all companies and employees working with such chemicals must adhere to. Working within this standard not only ensures your company won't be shut down for violating regulations, but can help avoid accidents and injury.

Application

HAZWOPER training is essential for any employee who either works with hazardous chemicals or has reason to come in contact with them in the course of performing their duties. OSHA's regulations are inclusive, meaning they are applied to anyone involved in clean up, whether or not they are paid employees or volunteers, as well as anyone working at a worksite that makes use of such chemicals. The regulations cover not only employees working for organizations that make use of these materials, but any emergency responders who might find themselves called out to assist with a spill.

Courses

Typically, HAZWOPER training courses are concentrated into 24 to 40-hour classes, which may be extended over several days. In order to remain certified, employees taking the class must not only complete the course, but also return each year for eight additional hours of refresher instruction. OSHA requires the refresher classes to help ensure that employees not only stay current on the law, but can also respond effectively when they see the misapplication of safety procedures in the workplace. These classes must take place in a live setting, allowing students to ask questions of their instructor.

Requirements

Because of the serious nature of working with dangerous chemicals, OSHA regulations are not only strict, but highly specific. There is little room for error when dealing with some of the harsher chemicals in the field, as failure to take proper precautions can lead to injury and death. Perhaps most importantly, regulations are specific to different types of workplaces, ensuring that each job site is working with chemicals in the safest manner possible, protecting both the employees and the environment. HAZWOPER training classes are designed to maximize this safety. If you are the manager or owner of a business that employs these chemicals, make sure your applicable employees have the requisite training to implement these procedures and stay within the regulations and requirements.