Complete HAZWOPER Training Guide: OSHA Requirements, Certification Levels, and State Regulations for Hazardous Waste Workers (29 CFR 1910.120)

Before you can safely enter or begin work in an uncontrolled hazardous waste operation, OSHA requires proper HAZWOPER training (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response) to ensure workers understand how to handle toxic chemicals, hazardous substances, and emergency spill situations safely.
HAZWOPER training is not one-size-fits-all. Under OSHA Standard 29 CFR 1910.120 (for General Industry), workers must complete different levels of training based on job responsibilities, exposure risk, and site duties. This ensures compliance with federal OSHA regulations and EPA-aligned safety protocols.
Additionally, several OSHA State Plan States operate their own approved safety programs, which often meet or exceed federal HAZWOPER requirements, enforcing stricter workplace safety standards for hazardous waste operations.
Federal OSHA governs the HAZWOPER Standards for both the Construction and General industries under 29 CFR 1926.65 and 29 CFR Part 1910.120, respectively.
Please view the 27 OSHA Plan States for more information on state-level OSHA-approved programs that may have enhanced or additional safety requirements compared to federal standards.
HAZWOPER Training Sequence
There are three levels of HAZWOPER training as listed by Federal OSHA and State-level training requirements. Within these three levels, various job functions have specific training requirements.
WHO NEEDS TRAINING?
5 LEVELS OF RESPONSE (q)
Cite: (q)(6)(ii)
Cite: (q)(6)(iii)
Cite: (q)(6)(iv)
Cite: (q)(6)(v)
WHAT HAZWOPER PROGRAMS ARE AVAILABLE?
- For individuals with regular exposure to hazardous materials.
- Includes 24-hour topics and in-depth coverage.
- For workers with occasional visits to hazardous sites.
- Covers hazard assessment, PPE, and response.
- Initial supervisor and refresher courses.
- Focuses on hazard recognition and procedures.
EN
ES
