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Is Fire Safety Training for Employees Required? Fire is indeed very beneficial and essential to life, but it can also be fatal and disastrous if not controlled properly. There is a misconception that fire occurs only in factories but in reality, fire can occur anytime anywhere. Adequate safety measures and appropriate training can help in minimizing fire hazards and increase fire safety, especially at worksites. Before we proceed further with our article let’s learn how a fire occurs. What Triggers Fire? Fire is a chemical reaction that needs three elements to withstand: fuel, oxygen, and a source of ignition. When a fuel source such as gasoline reacts with oxygen it produces heat, flames, and light, and this is how a fire occurs. If these three elements remain in place, fire can spread quickly and become uncontrollable, destroying not only property and the environment but also causing injury to people.  These are some common causes of fire. Open flames such as stoves or fireplaces Heating, lighting, and electrical equipment malfunctioning Smoking Burning Workplace fires are very common and difficult to extinguish. Fires at the workplace can occur because of the following reasons: Electrical equipment malfunctions or failures. Smoking in prohibited areas that may have greater exposure to flammable materials or substances. Inappropriate storage of flammable substances and materials. Welding or cutting operations. Friction or heat from machinery. In addition to the above reasons, hazardous sites, such as chemical plants or oil refineries, have a greater risk of fire due to the existence of flammable or combustible materials. Chemical reactions and spills producing flammable gases or vapors are also the reasons that cause fire to occur at hazardous sites. It is important to follow all safety procedures and guiding principles to minimize fire incidents. Employers must have an emergency response plan to deal with such situations. Warning! Fire is Everywhere It is not only factories that experience fire incidents. A room full of computers or a hazardous waste site with flammable chemicals can also be a source of ignition. The following workplaces and industries are prone to fire hazards and therefore must practice fire safety to protect employees and property. Manufacturing: Due to high exposure to flammable materials, use of electrical equipment, and high temperatures, industrial and manufacturing environments are exposed to various fire hazards. Construction: Construction workers often work with flammable materials and chemicals, and electrical and welding equipment. They are often also exposed to live wires.  As such, construction site employees are at risk leading to fire hazards. Healthcare: Flammable chemicals, medical gases, and electrical equipment present in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities are a cause of fire hazards. Hazardous Waste Site: Toxic pollutants and hazardous wastes present at hazardous waste sites can be readily combustible. Therefore, workers handling hazardous waste are at risk from fire hazards.   Agriculture: Agricultural jobs involve the usage of flammable chemicals, fuel sources, and electrical equipment that may cause fires due to mishandling or unexpected spills and mixing. Foodservice: Employees in restaurants and other food facilities are exposed to fire hazards due to proximity to flammable cooking oils, electrical and heating equipment, and the fire itself. Fire is not limited to the industries or jobs mentioned above. Fires can also occur at educational institutions, warehouses, or offices. Workplace fires are very common and have grave consequences such as damage to property and equipment, disruption of business operations, and employee injuries or even deaths. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), in 2021, U.S. fire departments responded to a fire every 23 seconds. Local fire departments responded to 1,353,500 fire incidents causing 3,800 civilian deaths, 14,700 civilian injuries, and a loss of $15.9 billion in property damage (NFPA, 2022). To identify more real-life fire incidents read our article “Workers Battle 13 Fires in 2 Years as Employers Disregard Fire Safety Measures In lieu of Profits” Preventive Measures for Fire Safety It is now clear that implementing fire safety measures could make the difference between life and death. Workplace fires are more dangerous and difficult to put off than fires at home. Hence, employers are responsible for creating awareness amongst workers of the preventive measures to minimize fire hazards at workplaces.  Safety measures that would support the reduction of fire hazards and increase workplace safety protocols are discussed below. Emergency exits – must be properly marked and clear at all times, enabling workers to evacuate immediately in case of a fire. Fire detection equipment and fire suppression systems - must be installed as per regulations and requirements of various types of fires, and properly maintained. Flammable and combustible materials and substances - must be stored in approved closed containers as per Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) regulations.  A fire safety officer must be appointed under the regulatory requirements. Organizations should plan and regularly execute fire drills to prepare employees on how to respond in case of fire. Electrical outlets and circuits must not be overloaded and must be regularly inspected and checked for safety.  Regular inspections of electrical and heating systems must be conducted. Malfunctioned or damaged electrical outlets and equipment must not be used. Combustible substances (e.g., chemicals) or materials (e.g., paper, hazardous waste, etc.) must be kept at a reasonable distance from electrical equipment or other fire ignition sources. Last but the most important is to annually train employees on fire safety and prevention measures in accordance with regulatory requirements and business needs. To learn more about fire prevention, you can read our article “Fire Prevention and Protection” Yes, Fire Safety Training is Mandatory! Training is always a good way to educate and protect employees from associated workplace hazards. Therefore, federal regulators have also mandated employers to ensure that their employees are adequately trained, and a safe and healthy work environment is provided to employees. Let’s learn what OSHA has stated about fire safety training  In the United States, OSHA obligates employers to provide fire safety training to employees exposed to fire hazards on the job. “Employers should train workers about fire hazards in the workplace and about what to do in a fire emergency” (OSHA, 2020). Training includes identifying probable fire hazards, the use of fire extinguishers, evacuating the workplace in case of a fire, and ways to report fires. Employers must ensure that if employees are expected to use firefighting equipment, they are given adequate training and know how to use such equipment safely. Additionally, firefighting equipment such as fire extinguishers must be appropriate for the type of fire hazards that exist at the workplace.  An employer must have an appropriate emergency plan which includes procedures for evacuating employees in case of fire with special consideration given to disabled employees and those who stay behind to shut down critical plant equipment. There must be a proper way of alerting employees in the event of fire such as an alarm system throughout the workplace including voice communication and the sound of bells, whistles, or horns.  Additional fire safety training depends upon the particular hazards present in the workplace. Fire safety training is not only limited to classroom training, but online courses can also be taken. Mock-up fire drills are also a good training method. Record Keeping The employer must keep a record that all employees are properly trained. The employee's name, the trainer's name, the training type, and the training date must be logged. Each training record is kept for one year from the time it was given or until it is replaced with a new training record, whichever is shorter. The record must be made available for inspection and copying by OSHA upon request. Final Thoughts Workers have a right to ensure their work does not pose a risk to their safety and health. They must be aware of workplace hazards, ways to prevent them, and OSHA standards that apply to their workplace. Workers can review records of work-related injuries and if they believe that a serious hazard exists at the workplace, they can ask OSHA for an inspection. Workers can also report a workplace injury to OSHA that happens because of the employer’s negligence. If an employer retaliates against a worker for exercising his/her rights, he/she can file a complaint with OSHA within 30 days of the incident. As training is a regulatory requirement, if an employer is found violating an OSHA standard or regulation, they may be subject to penalties depending upon the nature of the violation and the severity of the hazard it presents. Non-compliance penalties for violating OSHA regulations are addressed in the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 (OSH Act). The penalties are not limited to fines, but also abatement orders and citations. So, employers need to ensure that they are compliant with all fire safety regulations and training requirements.  Looking for an OSHA-compliant Fire Safety Training Provider?  Register for free and enroll in our Fire Safety Course. The online training course will enable you to learn at your own pace from home, at work, or wherever you want. All you need is internet access on a PC, laptop, or mobile device of your choice. Once you complete the course, you will receive a PDF of the certificate of course completion. We also offer discounted rates for large groups. Dial 866.429.6742 to speak to our customer services personnel or write to info@HAZWOPER-OSHA.com for more details. References Code of Federal Regulations. (n.d.). § 1915.508 Training. Website. https://www.ecfr.gov/current/title-29/subtitle-B/chapter-XVII/part-1915/subpart-P/section-1915.508 National Fire Protection Association. (2022 September). Fire Loss in the United States During 2021. Website. https://www.nfpa.org/News-and-Research/Data-research-and-tools/US-Fire-Problem/Fire-loss-in-the-United-States Occupational Safety and Health Administration. (2020 August). Fire Safety. Website. https://www.osha.gov/sites/default/files/publications/OSHA3527.pdf

Five Misconceptions About the Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) Regulation Myth 1:  HAZWOPER training is only required for workers handling hazardous materials. While it is true that HAZWOPER training is often required for workers handling hazardous materials, it is also required for workers who may be exposed to hazardous substances or environments as a result of their work. This includes emergency responders, environmental cleanup workers, and workers at hazardous waste sites. Myth 2: HAZWOPER training is only needed for certain industries. HAZWOPER training is not limited to any specific industry. It is relevant for any worker who may be exposed to hazardous substances or environments as a result of their work. This includes workers in industries such as construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and oil and gas, as well as emergency responders and government employees. Myth 3: HAZWOPER training is a one-time requirement. HAZWOPER training is not a one-time requirement. It is important for workers to refresh their knowledge and skills on a regular basis, as the hazardous substances and environments they may encounter can change over time. Myth 4: HAZWOPER training is only required for workers in the United States. HAZWOPER training is not limited to the United States. Many countries have their own regulations and guidelines for the handling and disposal of hazardous materials, and workers in these countries may be required to complete similar training. Myth 5: HAZWOPER training is only for workers who directly handle hazardous materials. While it is important for workers who directly handle hazardous materials to have proper training, HAZWOPER training is also relevant for workers who may be indirectly exposed to hazardous substances or environments. This includes workers who may be involved in emergency response or cleanup efforts, or who may be required to work in areas where hazardous materials are present. Register today to stay current on your HAZWOPER, OSHA, or RCRA/DOT training.

What is Classified as a Hazardous Chemical and for which Chemicals do we Need Safety Data Sheets (SDS)?A hazardous chemical is defined as any chemical that is classified as hazardous under the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). The HCS requires that employers provide information to workers about the hazardous chemicals they may be exposed to in the workplace through the use of Safety Data Sheets (SDSs) and other forms of communication.Hazardous chemicals are classified based on the physical and health hazards they present. Physical hazards include chemicals that are explosive, flammable, oxidizing, etc. Health hazards include chemicals that are toxic, corrosive, sensitizing, carcinogenic, etc.All chemicals that are classified as hazardous under the HCS must have an SDS. The SDS is a document that provides information about the chemical's properties, hazards, and precautions that should be taken when handling and using the chemical. It also provides information about the chemical's first aid measures, firefighting measures, and spill response procedures.The HCS requires that employers provide SDSs for all hazardous chemicals in the workplace and that they are easily accessible to workers. Workers have the right to request and review SDSs for the hazardous chemicals they may be exposed to in the workplace.

Responsibilities of a Competent Person in Scaffolding and Confined Space OperationsIn the world of safety and health, a “competent person” is designated to ensure the well-being of employees and workers. The Occupational Safety and Health Association (OSHA) defines a competent person as, “one who is capable of identifying existing and predictable hazards in the surroundings or working conditions which are unsanitary, hazardous, or dangerous to employees, and who has the authorization to take prompt corrective measures to eliminate them” (29 CFR 1926.450).The regulatory standards created across industries by OSHA often refer to “the duties of a competent person” and assign them specific responsibilities. While these responsibilities may differ, the underlying role of a competent person is to protect the health and safety of employees at a worksite by developing and implementing appropriate safety and health processes and plans as and when required. Our previous article dealt with the responsibilities of a competent person as specified in OSHA’s Excavations and Fall Protection Standards. This article will review and summarize the responsibilities of a competent person as applicable in OSHA’s Scaffolds and Confined Spaces Standards.The Role of the Competent Person for Scaffolding OperationsOSHA has specified responsibilities for a competent person in its 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L – Scaffolds Standard. According to this Standard, a competent person is responsible for:Selecting and directing employees who erect, dismantle, move, alter, and inspect scaffolds.Training employees working on scaffolding to recognize hazards associated with tasks such as erecting, dismantling, moving, adjusting, and inspecting scaffolds.Determining the safety of employees working on scaffolds during unfavorable weather conditions such as strong winds, storms, or heavy snowfall.Ensuring employees working on scaffolding have access to a personal fall arrest system or wind screens during bad weather.Making sure the scaffolds’ structural integrity is maintained when components from different manufacturers are used together.Determining whether galvanic action has affected the capacity of scaffolds when components made from different metals are used together.Additionally, a competent person is responsible for inspecting scaffolds and scaffold components for visible defects at various times. Such inspections must be mainly conducted:Before every work shift, and After any incident that could impact the reliability or structural integrity of the scaffold. In case of scaffolds are damaged or any scaffold breakdown occurs, a competent person must be given the authority to promptly take any and all necessary corrective actions.Worker Training When Working in and around ScaffoldsTo obtain more details about OSHA’s Scaffolding Standards and be prepared to safely work on scaffolding, enroll employees in our OSHA Scaffolding Safety Training today! We offer corporate rates and group discounts. Our training can be taken online at any time, or we can arrange to conduct onsite or virtual training with an experienced instructor at a location of your choice. Contact us for more details. The Role of the Competent Person When Work is Done in Confined SpacesBefore we explore the role of a competent person in a confined space. Let us understand what a confined space means. What is a Confined Space? According to OSHA’s Confined Spaces Standard, a confined space is defined as a space thatIs large enough and so configured that an employee can bodily enter it,Has limited or restricted means for entry and exit, andIs not designed for continuous employee occupancy.Considering that employees working in confined spaces are exposed to various hazards, OSHA’s Confined Spaces Standard for the Construction Industry specifies various requirements that fall under the purview of the person designated as a competent person. Accordingly, a competent person must:Identify all confined spaces in which one or more employees may be assigned work before work begins at a worksite.Determine which of these confined spaces should be designed as a permit-required confined space through evaluation and testing to determine the specific safety and health hazards.Also decide which of the confined spaces workers may enter to perform work activities. Our article titled ‘Confined Space Protective Measures’ will explain the permit-required confined space in more detail. Training for Working in Confined SpacesWorkers who work in confined spaces require adequate and appropriate training to meet OSHA safety requirements. Our OSHA Confined Space Awareness Training course is designed for employees who work in and around confined spaces. Such workers may include authorized entrants, safety attendants, entry supervisors, and emergency response personnel. Our confined space awareness safety training course complies with the training requirements as specified in OSHA’s Confined Spaces Standard for the Construction Industry, 29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA.ReferencesOSHA. (n.d.). Confined Spaces in Construction Standard - 29 CFR 1926 Subpart AA. 1926.1202 - Definitions. Website. https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1926/1926.1202OSHA. (n.d.). Scaffolding Standard for the Construction Industry - 29 CFR 1926 Subpart L. 1926.450 - Scope, application, and definitions applicable to this subpart. Website. https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1926/1926.450

Are Recyclers Required to have HAZWOPER Training?HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response) training is a type of training and certification program for workers who handle hazardous materials or work in hazardous environments. Whether recyclers are required to have HAZWOPER training depends on the specific hazards they may be exposed to on the job and the regulations that apply to their workplace.In general, recyclers who handle hazardous waste or materials that are classified as hazardous under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) may be required to have HAZWOPER training. This includes recyclers who work with hazardous chemicals, batteries, electronics, or other materials that may pose a risk to the health and safety of workers or the environment.The specific HAZWOPER training requirements for recyclers can vary depending on the specific hazards they may be exposed to on the job and the level of certification they are seeking. There are several different levels of HAZWOPER certification, including: HAZWOPER 8-Hour: This is a basic level of training that is required for all workers who may be exposed to hazardous substances or waste. HAZWOPER 24-Hour: This level of training is required for workers who are responsible for responding to hazardous material spills or other emergencies. HAZWOPER 40-Hour: This level of training is required for workers who will be performing hazardous waste operations on a regular basis. It is important to note that HAZWOPER training is a requirement for certain types of work and is not a voluntary or optional program. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their workers have the appropriate level of HAZWOPER certification for the tasks they will be performing. Recyclers should check with their employer or the relevant regulatory agency to determine if HAZWOPER training is required for their job.

What are the Types of Chemicals?There are many different types of chemicals that are used in a variety of industries and applications. Chemicals can be classified based on their properties, uses, and other characteristics. Some common categories of chemicals include: Acids: Chemicals that release hydrogen ions when dissolved in water. Acids have a sour taste and can be corrosive to certain materials. Bases: Chemicals that release hydroxide ions when dissolved in water. Bases have a bitter taste and can be corrosive to certain materials. Gases: Chemicals that are in a gaseous state at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. Gases can be compressed or liquified for storage or transportation. Liquids: Chemicals that are in a liquid state at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. Liquids can be poured and take the shape of their container. Solids: Chemicals that are in a solid state at room temperature and atmospheric pressure. Solids have a fixed shape and volume. Oxidizers: Chemicals that can cause or promote the oxidation of other materials. Oxidizers can be unstable and can ignite easily. Flammable liquids: Chemicals that are easily ignited and can burn rapidly. Flammable liquids have a flash point of less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Toxic chemicals: Chemicals that are poisonous or harmful to humans or other living organisms. Toxic chemicals can be harmful if inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. Hazardous chemicals: Chemicals that pose a risk to the health and safety of workers or the environment. Hazardous chemicals may be flammable, toxic, corrosive, or reactive. Click here to learn more. It is important to handle and store chemicals safely and to follow all relevant safety guidelines and regulations when working with these materials.The Hazard Communication Standard with GHS Training course will assist employees to identify the different chemical hazards and support the increase of workplace safety and health. This course is designed to educate workers who use hazardous chemicals in their workplaces, and those who are engaged in the manufacture, storage, import, and transportation of hazardous chemicals.

What Happens When Your HAZWOPER Certification Expires?If your HAZWOPER certification expires, it means that your training and certification are no longer valid and you are no longer authorized to perform work that requires this certification. This typically means that you will not be allowed to work in hazardous environments or handle hazardous substances until you have completed the required training and obtained a new certification.If your HAZWOPER certification has expired, you will need to complete the required training and pass a written examination in order to obtain a new certification. The specific training requirements and expiration dates for HAZWOPER certification vary depending on the level of certification that you are seeking and the specific hazards you will be exposed to on the job. There are several different levels of HAZWOPER certification, including: HAZWOPER 8-Hour: This is a basic level of training that is required for all workers who may be exposed to hazardous substances or waste. HAZWOPER 24-Hour: This level of training is required for workers who are responsible for responding to hazardous material spills or other emergencies. HAZWOPER 40-Hour: This level of training is required for workers who will be performing hazardous waste operations on a regular basis. It is important to note that HAZWOPER certification is a requirement for certain types of work and is not a voluntary or optional program. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their workers have the appropriate level of HAZWOPER certification for the tasks they will be performing.Register today to stay current on your HAZWOPER, OSHA, or RCRA/DOT training.

Is There an Expiration Leeway for HAZWOPER 8-Hour Refresher Annual Training?The HAZWOPER certification is valid for up to 12 months, after which refresher training is required to maintain the certification.The specific expiration leeway for HAZWOPER 8-hour refresher training can vary depending on the regulations or guidelines that apply to a particular workplace or industry.In general, HAZWOPER 8-hour refresher training is required to be completed on an annual basis for workers who handle hazardous substances or waste, or who work in hazardous environments. The purpose of this training is to ensure that workers remain current on the latest safety guidelines and procedures related to their work.However, in some cases, it may be possible for workers to have a brief extension on their training if they are unable to complete it within the specified time frame. For example, if a worker is unable to attend a scheduled training session due to illness or a family emergency, their employer may allow them to complete the training at a later date.It is important to note that any extension of the expiration date for HAZWOPER 8-hour refresher training should be granted on a case-by-case basis, and workers should not assume that they will automatically be granted an extension. Employers are responsible for ensuring that their workers complete the required training in a timely manner, and it is the worker's responsibility to ensure that they complete the training as required.Renew your HAZWOPER training today by clicking here.

Do Warehouse Workers Require Lithium Training? Lithium is a chemical element that is used in a variety of industrial and consumer products, including batteries, lubricants, and pharmaceuticals. It is important for warehouse workers who handle lithium or lithium-containing products to be trained on how to safely handle and store these materials. Here are some general guidelines for training warehouse workers on the safe handling and storage of lithium: Provide information about the properties and potential hazards of lithium, including its flammability, reactivity with water, and potential for producing toxic fumes. Train workers on the proper handling and storage of lithium products, including the use of personal protective equipment and the proper storage of lithium batteries. Discuss emergency procedures in the event of a lithium-related incident, including how to handle a fire, leak, or spill. Make sure workers are aware of any relevant regulations and guidelines related to the handling and storage of lithium products. Regularly review and update training materials and procedures to ensure that workers have the most current and accurate information on lithium safety. It is important to note that these are general guidelines and specific training requirements may vary depending on the specific type and quantity of lithium products being handled and the specific workplace setting. Click here to learn more about our available Lithium batteries online training courses.

What is the Difference Between RCRA and OSHA? OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) and RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act) are both U.S. federal agencies that regulate different aspects of environmental and workplace safety. OSHA is a part of the U.S. Department of Labor and is responsible for setting and enforcing standards for occupational safety and health in the workplace. OSHA's goal is to protect workers from hazards that can cause injury or illness. It does this by setting standards for things like personal protective equipment, hazardous materials handling, and machine guarding, and by conducting inspections of workplaces to ensure that these standards are being followed. RCRA, on the other hand, is a part of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and is responsible for regulating the management of hazardous waste. RCRA sets standards for the generation, transportation, treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste, with the goal of protecting human health and the environment from the potentially harmful effects of these materials. In summary, OSHA regulates occupational safety and health in the workplace, while RCRA regulates the management of hazardous waste. Click here for OSHA and RCRA training.