If you work in an industry that handles hazardous substances, you might know that HAZWOPER, or the Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard, is the standard set forth by OSHA that is meant to provide workplace safety. If you aren’t employed in such an industry, but have plans to be, you need to familiarize yourself with this standard as well as the training involved.
How Do I Know Which HAZWOPER Training Course I Need?
The 40 hour course is necessary for employees who will or will have the potential to be exposed to hazardous substances, including waste. The 24 hour course is for people who will occasionally enter sites that contain, store or dispose of hazardous substances. The 8 hour course is a refresher course that can be taken by those who have already received their 40 or 24 hour training.
Can They All Be Taken Online?
Yes. All courses can be completed online, with two important exceptions.
- The 40 hour HAZWOPER training course can have the initial training done online, but there must be two hands on components. The first one involves PPE, or personal protection equipment training, where the person must learn how to take on and off the necessary equipment. The second, hands on component is training done on site specific equipment that is directly related to the employee’s job responsibilities.
- The 24 hour HAZWOPER training course can be completed online, except for one hands on component. This is field experience training that must be done under a qualified supervisor.
The 8 hour HAZWOPER training course is a refresher course, and the entire module can be taken online.
Who Pays For HAZWOPER Training?
On occasion, federal grants are made available to help pay for training in hazardous substances. Some of these grants were released under the stimulus bill while others have been given to communities that have brownfields sites. Brownfields sites are areas that have been contaminated by hazardous substances, but can be rehabilitated for future use.
If you are currently employed, your employer might offer to pay for training. If you are not employed, check with your city job corps center or human services division. Either of these might have information about upcoming grants that might become available in your community.
Is There Further Training Available?
You will be required to take a refresher course every 12 months in order to keep your training current. If you let it lapse, you might have to retake the 40 or 24 hour training you were previously certified in. Try to keep all your paperwork current and easily accessible. If you change jobs, you will have to present it to your new employer to prove you have received training.
How Do I Find A Good Online Training Site?
Your employer might be able to recommend a preferred website. If they can’t, your local junior or community college might offer training online or be able to make a recommendation. Remember that a trustworthy site will outline OSHA training procedures and will link to relevant sources. They should also have a phone number or email so you can contact a representative if you have any questions or concerns.