Our Safety Blogs

Building a Safer Workplace: Prioritizing Construction Safety and Fall Protection May commences with a significant focus on worker safety in the Construction Industry. Did You Know? The first week of May is dedicated to raising awareness for preventing falls in the workplace and emphasizing construction safety Leveraging Construction Safety Week to Enhance Safety at the Construction Site Construction Safety Week originated in 2014 when the Construction Industry Safety Initiative (CISI) group, together with the Incident and Injury Free (IIF) CEO Forum, collaborated to encourage safety leadership in the construction industry. Since then, Construction Safety Week has evolved into an annual campaign with an expanding number of members and sponsors. Although the event lasts for a week, its impact on the lives and livelihoods of workers is felt throughout the year. Employers can use this first week from May 1-5, 2023, as an opportunity to improve safety measures and create a safer working environment for construction workers. Here are some activities that employers can carry out to ensure a successful Construction Safety Week: Provide Safety Training Aligned to OSHA Regulations Employers must ensure all workers are properly trained on safety protocols and procedures. Working at heights specifically can be very dangerous. Provide adequate worker training, specifically for workers working on scaffolding, ladders, aerial devices, and elevating equipment. Click here to select the OSHA construction safety training courses for your employees. Emphasize the Importance of Communication One way to foster a safe and secure workplace is to encourage open communication between workers and management. This means creating opportunities for workers to express their concerns and being open to their suggestions and ideas for improving workplace safety measures, as well as listening to their feedback and acting accordingly. Conduct Site Safety Inspections As a responsible employer, regular inspections of the worksite to identify any hazards should be a part of the worksite safety plan. Guide workers through the process and emphasize the significance of site inspections, especially after a summer storm or snowfall, and the procedures for addressing issues promptly. Promote Proper Equipment Use Encourage workers to use the right equipment for the job and ensure that equipment is in good working condition. If working with electrical equipment, ensure workers are trained to identify prevailing electrical hazards and how to prevent them. Enroll workers in Electrical Safety Training without delay! Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) It is essential to educate workers about the significance of proper usage of PPE such as helmets, gloves, safety glasses, and fall protection gear. Furthermore, workers must have the knowledge and know-how to inspect the condition of PPE to ensure that it is in good working condition. Foster a Culture of Safety Construction Safety Week is a great opportunity to emphasize the importance of safety in the workplace. So, prioritize safety as the primary focus for this week. Motivate and encourage all workers to take accountability for their and their colleagues' safety. Celebrate Safety Success Stories Recognize workers who have made significant contributions to workplace safety. Plan a ceremony or gathering to honor the organization’s safety milestones and achievements together with the hard work and dedication of supervisors and employees who have contributed to them. Promoting safety success on social media and employee newsletters is also a great idea. Use the hashtag #ConstructionSafetyWeek for greater reach during this dedicated Construction Safety Week. Collaborate with Others to Improve Workplace Safety Measures To enhance the effectiveness of safety measures and learn from the experiences of others, employers can collaborate and partner with different organizations and agencies to share ideas, best practices, goals, and values. Fall Protection Safety at the Forefront Falls from heights are one of the highest-rated hazards in the construction industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 378 out of 986 recorded construction fatalities in 2021 were due to falls from a higher elevation. However, all these fatalities could have been prevented. The National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction aims to heighten fall hazard awareness across the country to prevent fall-related injuries and fatalities. To commemorate this week in May, construction contractors and employers can increase awareness and promote safety measures to prevent fall hazards. Here are some tips to commemorate this event. Conduct Safety Training Conduct safety training sessions on fall prevention measures and ensure that all employees are aware of the hazards of falls and the safety protocols they must follow to ensure their personal safety and the safety of their coworkers. Enroll employees in our OSHA Competent Person for Fall Protection Training Course without delay! For workers who need training in Spanish, enroll them in our Spanish fall protection awareness training course Capacitación en Protección contra Caídas de OSHA para la Construcción For employees working on scaffolding, we have a dedicated OSHA Scaffolding Safety Training Course Organize a Stand-Down Plan a stand-down event where all construction activities are paused, and workers gather to focus on fall prevention measures. During the event, workers can review safety procedures, discuss any concerns or incidents, and learn about new safety measures. For more details on conducting a stand-down event, click here. Also, remember to share your events on your social media platforms using the hashtag - #StandDown4Safety. Spread Awareness of Fall Hazards To raise awareness about the common fall hazards in construction and how to prevent them, effective communication is an essential element of raising awareness among workers. Employers can use various methods to disseminate information and educate construction workers, including putting up posters, sending out flyers and emails, and using social media to promote the importance of fall prevention and safety measures to be followed on construction sites. Social media platforms may also be used to recognize success stories of how fall hazards were prevented. Recognize Safety Champions Recognize employees who have made significant contributions to promoting safety on construction sites. This could be in the form of awards, certificates, or public recognition. Organize an event that can also be combined as an employee motivation and engagement opportunity to spread the word on fall protection and how worker contribution plays a significant role in preventing fall hazards. Collaborate with Others Partner with other organizations, agencies, and stakeholders to promote fall prevention measures and raise awareness about the hazards of falls in the construction industry. This could include local safety organizations, trade associations, and government agencies. In Conclusion By observing both Construction Safety Week and National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction Week, employers and contractors can create a safer working environment for all construction workers and prevent falls from occurring. Action undertaken as mentioned, will support the increased safety of workers at construction sites and minimize occupational hazards in the construction industry.

Latest Developments: U.S. EPA's Advisory on Ensuring RCRA Compliance via E-Manifest Data AccuracyThe electronic manifest (e-Manifest) is a relatively new introduction by the EPA in line with today’s rapid adoption of technology for automating standardized forms. While this e-Manifest system has been active since June 30, 2018, its use has only been fully taken advantage of in the past few years.What is an e-Manifest?An e-Manifest, or electronic manifest, is an electronic system used by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to track the movement of hazardous waste from the generator to the final disposal or recycling facility. The e-Manifest system aims to improve the accuracy, efficiency, and transparency of hazardous waste management by replacing the traditional paper-based manifest system with an electronic one.Although the e-Manifest system has simplified the process of filling out mandatory forms, hazardous waste generators utilizing this system need to recognize the significance of incorporating all data to ensure safety during handling and transporting such hazardous waste and for the accuracy of records maintained. Regulators recently emphasized the significance of maintaining complete and accurate manifests to track shipments in the e-Manifest system. In fact, a Compliance Advisory was recently issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to hazardous waste generators and receiving facilities detailing the primary concerns regarding the incomplete hazardous waste manifest date. The three most common issues of data incompleteness and accuracy submitted in the e-Manifest system are detailed below:Inaccurate or Missing EPA ID NumberMany waste generators who use the e-Manifest system tend to miss out on filling in their EPA numbers. Cases most commonly include small quantity generators (SQG), and very small quantity generator (VSQG) sites. They fail to provide an EPA ID number, which is required in certain situations such as when a state requires a manifest for "non-RCRA" waste or when a VSQG uses the exemption for episodic events.Mis-matching or Invalid Manifest Tracking Numbers (MTN)Another common problem that arises is the use of invalid tracking numbers or electronic submissions in the-Manifest system. It is normal practice that each manifest is printed with a unique tracking number by the limited approved and registered vendors. Generators are required to use only these approved manifests. However, the EPA receives manifests with invalid tracking numbers or electronic submissions that use MTNs that do not match the hard copy of the manifest.Electronic Submission and Typo ErrorsA very common error made during online submissions is typographic errors. Hazardous waste generators using the e-Manifest systems must ensure that the data entered through the electronic system is accurate and complete and devoid of any typos. The EPA also faces issues with paper-based manifests where the writing on a paper manifest is illegible!The Compliance Advisory warns that hazardous waste generator facilities that submit incomplete or inaccurate data through the e-Manifest system may face enforcement action by the EPA. It is important for hazardous waste generators and receiving facilities to ensure that their e-Manifest data is accurate and complete to comply with RCRA requirements.

Unlocking the Hidden Potential: How RCRA Training Empowers Employers and Employees RCRA stands for the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act, a federal law in the United States regulating the management of hazardous waste from its generation to its disposal (often referred to as cradle-to-grave). Governed by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency), the RCRA establishes a framework for the proper management, storage, transportation, and disposal of hazardous waste to protect human health and the environment. The RCRA requires employers, who are waste generators, to train employees to understand and mitigate the risks associated with handling hazardous material wastes. Thus, RCRA training refers to the education and training programs designed to educate employees on the requirements and best practices for managing hazardous waste in compliance with RCRA regulations. Our RCRA Hazardous Waste Generator Training covers topics such as hazardous waste identification, storage, transportation, disposal, recordkeeping, and reporting requirements. This RCRA training course aims to provide the necessary knowledge to workers who must comply with EPA regulations 40 CFR Part 261 and 40 CFR Part 262, which govern the handling and management of hazardous waste under the RCRA of 1976. RCRA training may be required by federal, state, or local regulations for certain job roles, such as waste generators, transporters, and treatment or disposal facility operators, to ensure proper hazardous waste management and environmental protection. According to regulations, the RCRA Hazardous Waste Generator Training must be provided to personnel within six months of job assignment or change in job function and on an annual basis thereafter. We also offer the RCRA Hazardous Waste Generator Refresher Training for those seeking to renew their RCRA training certificate. Enroll Employees in RCRA Training to protect their health and safety!. How Do Employers Benefit by Providing RCRA Training to Employees? Compliance with Legal Requirements RCRA training ensures that employers and their employees are knowledgeable about the regulations and requirements for managing hazardous waste. This helps employers comply with federal, state, and local laws related to hazardous waste management, reducing the risk of fines, penalties, and legal liabilities. Improved Safety Culture at the Workplace Proper hazardous waste management is critical to prevent accidents, spills, and exposures that can harm employees, customers, and the environment. RCRA training equips employees with essential knowledge and skills to safely handle hazardous waste, minimizing the risk of workplace accidents and injuries. This helps to reduce employer liabilities and promotes a culture of workplace safety, safeguarding the well-being of all stakeholders involved. Cost Savings By providing RCRA training to workers, employers can achieve cost savings by efficiently managing hazardous waste, including reducing expenses related to waste disposal, clean-up, and potential legal liabilities. Additionally, costs associated with workplace catastrophes and worker compensation costs can also be curtailed. Moreover, when employees are knowledgeable about proper procedures for handling, storing, and disposing of hazardous waste, it leads to more effective and cost-efficient waste management practices. Operational Efficiency Organizations that effectively manage hazardous waste will can optimize operational efficiency by maximizing resource utilization. By enrolling workers in RCRA training, employers empower employees with the know-how to handle, store, and dispose of hazardous waste efficiently. This would also reduce incidents of work stoppage and production losses due to injury and illness. This converts into tangible cost savings, higher profits, and operational advantages for employers. Enhanced Corporate Reputation Demonstrating compliance with RCRA regulations through training can enhance an employer's reputation as a responsible and environmentally conscious organization. This can be particularly important for businesses that have verbalized their sustainability agenda, and those that operate in industries that use natural resources or are perceived to have a higher negative impact on the environment. Furthermore, appropriate training provided to employees can improve an employer’s brand image with employees who would view them as the preferred employer. By being a responsible employer and one that respects the environment, the organization would also attract environmentally aware customers, investors, and stakeholders, bolstering the organization's brand image. What Benefits Do Employees Gain from Receiving RCRA Training? Increased Safety Awareness While Handling Hazardous Waste RCRA training provides employees with the knowledge and skills to safely handle hazardous waste, which helps protect their health and well-being in the workplace. Employees learn about the potential hazards of different types of hazardous waste, proper handling techniques, and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), which can improve their safety awareness and reduce the risk of accidents and injuries which could have longer-term impacts on the quality of life. Professional Development RCRA training can enhance employees' professional development by providing them with valuable knowledge and skills related to hazardous waste management. This can improve their qualifications and job prospects within their organization or in the job market, leading to potential career advancement opportunities. Compliance with Regulations RCRA training ensures that employees are knowledgeable about the regulations and requirements for managing hazardous waste, which helps them comply with legal obligations. Compliance with regulations not only protects employees but results in reducing the risk of legal liabilities and fines for the employer. Environmental Stewardship RCRA training raises awareness among employees about the importance of environmental protection through the proper management of hazardous waste. This can foster a sense of environmental stewardship, making employees more conscious of their environmental responsibilities and promoting environmentally responsible behavior both in the workplace and in their personal lives. Ultimately, adhering to RCRA can lead to many benefits for both employers and employees. Thus, by investing in RCRA training, employers are making a wise decision to safeguard the health of workers, while contributing to a safer workplace, ensuring regulatory compliance, and implementing sustainable waste management practices. Enroll Employees in RCRA Training to protect their health and safety!.

Recordkeeping Requirements for Hazardous Waste Generators Generating Hazardous Waste? Know the Recordkeeping Requirements that must be Followed According to the RCRA. All employers must safeguard the health of individuals exposed to or handling hazardous waste. To instill greater diligence in this regard, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) has developed and implemented a set of rules and regulations that must be complied with.  One part of these rules and regulations is the need for recordkeeping. Recordkeeping requirements, like training requirements, differ according to the amount of waste generated and accumulated on-site. As such large quantity generators (LQGs), small quantity generators (SQGs), and very small quantity generators (VSQGs) must strictly adhere to the RCRA recordkeeping requirements, as applicable. Take a look at the summarized table of recordkeeping requirements for LQGs, SQGs, and VSQGs. What Types of Recordkeeping are Required by the RCRA?  All sizes of waste generators can benefit from keeping proper and detailed records, However, the larger the amounts of hazardous waste being handled, the more stringent the recordkeeping requirements. As such, the RCRA gives detailed guidance on recordkeeping requirements for hazardous waste generator facilities. According to the RCRA regulations regarding recordkeeping, organizations that generate hazardous waste categorized as LQGs are required to fulfill all eight (8) types of documentation obligations explained below. However, SQGs are expected from preparing biennial reports, resulting in the need for only seven (7) types of recordkeeping requirements to be fulfilled.   Let’s discuss these recordkeeping requirements in detail: 1. Employee training records Hazardous waste personnel at LQGs must receive initial and annual re-training, as per the regulations (262.17(a)(7)(iv)), and these training sessions must be documented. Training records for current personnel must be maintained by generators until the facility is closed. For former employees, the training records must be kept for a minimum of three years from their last day of work at the facility. According to 40 CFR Part 262.17(a)(7)(v), the following records pertaining to training must be maintained by large quantity generators:  Job titles for positions related to hazardous waste. Names of employees holding these positions. Written job descriptions with specific information. Written descriptions of the type and amount of training provided. Documentation confirming successful completion of the training, such as a certificate of training. 2. Waste classification records Maintaining complete and accurate waste determination records is crucial to keep track of the composition of the waste, its origin, applicable treatment standards, and potential exclusions. These records can also serve as proof of the waste's characteristics. Regardless of whether the material is classified as hazardous waste, non-hazardous waste, or recyclable or reusable material, LQGs must document how this waste was classified and maintain those records.  According to 40 CFR Part 262.11(f), the following details must be recorded about the waste determination process: Results of any tests, sampling, analyses, or other determinations. Documentation of the methods used for the tests, sampling, analyses, etc. Records showing the process that generated the waste. The waste's composition and properties. All relevant waste codes, such as D001, D002, F003, etc. All such waste determination records must be retained by generators for a minimum of three years following the last instance of sending the waste for treatment, storage, or disposal.  3. Hazardous waste manifests In the United States, the Uniform Hazardous Waste Manifest is utilized as a means of monitoring the transportation of hazardous waste. Once a generator has received a signed copy from the receiving facility (i.e., a treatment, storage, and disposal facilities (TSDF)), that particular copy must be preserved as a record for a minimum of three years from the date on which the waste was accepted by the initial transporter. During the interim period while waiting for the receiving facility to return a copy of the Manifest, generators are advised to maintain a copy for their records in the event of discrepancies or other complications. To align with the increasingly tech-savvy world and transition to paperless systems and processes, the EPA launched the electronic manifest (e-Manifest) option for hazardous waste generators on June 30, 2018. For more information about the e-manifest systems, click here. Remember that hazardous waste manifests must be signed by an authorized person, and he or she must receive the proper training to do so! 4. Hazardous waste contingency plan Large quantity generators are required to have an RCRA contingency plan to ensure that emergency responders and personnel have access to accurate and current information to guide their emergency response efforts. Additionally, LQGs must create a quick reference guide for their contingency plan that includes eight (8) specific elements. The contingency plan must be updated or amended immediately in the event of changes to regulations, a failure of the plan during an emergency, facility modifications, a change in emergency coordinators, or modifications to the list of emergency equipment.  The regulations governing the purpose, content, and distribution of written contingency plans can be found in 40 CFR Part 262, Subpart M. 5. Hazardous Waste Incident Reports If an incident involving hazardous waste necessitates the activation of the contingency plan, the generator is required to document the event's date, time, and specifics. Additionally, within 15 days of the incident, the generator must submit a written report of the incident to the regional EPA administrator. This incident report should include the following details: Name, address, and telephone number of the generator. Date, time, and type of incident (e.g., fire, explosion). Name and quantity of the hazardous material(s) involved. Information about injuries, if any. An assessment of actual or potential hazards, where applicable. Estimated quantity and disposition of the recovered material resulting from the incident. 6. Land Disposal Restrictions (LDR) Documentation The RCRA regulations establish a hazardous waste management system from the point of generation to final disposal, known as cradle-to-grave. Even after the hazardous waste is disposed of, records pertaining to compliance with land disposal restrictions must be retained. Hazardous waste generators are required to keep copies of LDR-related records for a minimum of three years after the waste is sent for treatment, storage, or disposal. The Land Ban Form, Compliance Certifications, One-time Notice to File, and Waste Analysis Plans are some of the documents that must be prepared by hazardous waste generators. For more information about these LDR recordkeeping documents, refer to 40 CFR Part 268.7(a).  7. Records for Tank and Central Storage Area Inspections Hazardous waste generators are required to regularly inspect the tank and central storage areas as per the 40 CFR Parts 262 and 265. The regulations also mandate recordkeeping of the daily tank inspections. Keeping records of the weekly storage area inspections is not explicitly required by the regulations, but it is considered a best management practice as it provides evidence that the generator has met the inspection requirements. The facility should retain tank inspection records until it ceases operation. Additionally, according to 40 CFR Parts 265.191(a) and 192(a) and (g), LQGs are required to keep an engineer's evaluation of the storage tank system's integrity until the facility closes. 8. The Biennial Report According to Federal hazardous waste regulations, LQGs are required to submit a Biennial Report every even-numbered year (2024, 2026, etc.) by March 1st. This report must detail the type, quantity, and disposition of hazardous waste(s) generated or stored during the previous year. Additionally, according to 40 CFR Part 262.40(b), hazardous waste generators are required to keep a copy of their biennial report for at least three years after the due date. As part of the Biennial Report (EPA Form 8700-13A/B), generators are required to provide specific details, such as: The EPA ID number of the facility, The name and address of the facility, The quantity and type of hazardous waste generated, and Whether the hazardous waste was sent for recycling, treatment, storage, or disposal. It should be noted that state-level regulations may vary, as the EPA allows most states to establish and implement additional, more stringent requirements for hazardous waste generators within their jurisdiction. For example, some states may mandate LGQ to submit an annual report rather than a biennial report. Also note, that small quantity generators are not required to submit a biennial report, although preparing one is considered a good and safe work practice! Training Requirements According to the RCRA While recordkeeping is important when generating hazardous waste, equally important is the need to provide training to employees and other workers involved in handling hazardous waste in organizations across all types of industries that produce hazardous waste. Thus, employers must provide RCRA Training to workers in their facilities to comply with regulations and protect the health of workers. This requires both RCRA initial training when starting the job role and RCRA annual refresher training thereafter. Additionally, any organization involved in the treatment, storage, and disposal of hazardous waste must train employees according to the HAZWOPER standards. 

Who is Responsible for Designating a Competent Person?The designation of a competent person may vary depending on the industry and the specific task at hand. In general, it is the responsibility of the employer to designate a competent person who has the necessary training, experience, and knowledge to carry out a particular task safely and effectively.In some cases, industry standards or regulations may provide specific criteria for who can be designated as a competent person. For example, in construction, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires that a competent person be designated to oversee certain activities, such as excavations or scaffolding.Ultimately, the designation of a competent person should be based on an objective evaluation of the individual's qualifications and ability to perform the task safely and effectively.

The top 20 frequently asked questions about hazardous materials (HAZMAT) Who needs hazmat training? Individuals who handle, transport, or ship hazardous materials in the United States are required to undergo hazmat training as per the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) set by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). Who provides hazmat placards for hazmat shipments? The shipper of hazardous materials is responsible for providing and affixing the appropriate hazmat placards to the transport vehicle or container as per the HMR guidelines. Who regulates hazardous materials in the US? The transportation of hazardous materials in the United States is regulated by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), a division of the Department of Transportation (DOT). When does hazmat training expire? Hazmat training certification expires after three years, as per the HMR guidelines. Recurrent hazmat training is required to maintain certification. What sort of training record should be kept for HAZMAT employees? Training records must be kept by the hazmat employer for each hazmat employee, and must include the following: the hazmat employee’s name; the completion date of the most recent training; training materials used (copy, description, or location); the name and address of the hazmat trainer; and certification that the hazmat employee has been trained and tested. Training records must be retained for each hazmat employee for three years from the date of the last training, and for 90 days after the employee leaves. Which training is needed? Training - a systematic program (consistent approach, testing, and documentation) that ensures a hazmat employee has knowledge of hazmat and the HMR, and can perform assigned hazmat functions properly. Click here to view all available HAZMAT training. Who needs a DOT hazardous materials security plan? Any person or entity that handles, offers for transport, or transports hazardous materials in commerce, and is required to register with the DOT, is mandated to have a written hazardous materials security plan as per the HMR regulations. This applies to shippers, carriers, freight forwarders, and any other entity that comes under the HMR jurisdiction. Who is a HAZMAT employer? Hazmat employer - a person who uses one or more employees regarding: transporting hazmat in commerce; causing hazmat to be transported or shipped in commerce; or designing, manufacturing, fabricating, inspecting, representing, marking, certifying, selling, offering, reconditioning, testing, repairing, or modifying packagings as qualified for use in the transportation of hazmat. The definition of "hazmat employer" encompasses not only private companies, but also any branch of the United States government, a state government, a political subdivision of a state, or a Native American Indian tribe that engages in the transportation or offering of hazardous materials in commerce. The term also applies to individuals who are self-employed, such as owner-operators of commercial motor vehicles that transport hazardous materials in commerce. What information is mandatory on hazmat shipping papers? The hazardous materials shipping paper must contain the proper shipping name, hazard class, identification number, packing group, and emergency response information among other things as per the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) outlined by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA). What is the correct order for providing the basic description of hazmat? The basic description of hazardous materials should be presented in the following sequence: Proper Shipping Name, Hazard Class, Identification Number, and Packing Group as per the HMR guidelines. What is the hazmat shipping table (49 CFR 172.101) and its significance in hazmat transportation? The hazmat shipping table (49 CFR 172.101) is a list of hazardous materials along with their proper shipping names, hazard classes, identification numbers, packing groups, and other information relevant to the safe transportation of these materials. It is significant as it provides information required to properly classify, label, package, and handle hazardous materials during transportation. At what point is a hazmat shipment considered to be in "bulk" volume? A hazmat shipment is considered to be in "bulk" volume when it meets any of the following criteria: the total volume of the material being shipped is greater than 119 gallons for a liquid or 882 pounds for a solid, or the material is transported in a single container that exceeds 1,000 pounds gross weight. Does IMDG Code, ICAO Technical Instructions, OSHA, or EPA training fulfill the HMR requirements? The training requirements for the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) in the United States are governed by the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) of the Department of Transportation (DOT). While the International Maritime Dangerous Goods (IMDG) Code and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Technical Instructions provide guidance for the safe transportation of hazardous materials by sea and air, respectively, they do not fulfill the HMR training requirements. Similarly, training provided by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) or the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) may not meet the HMR training requirements as they have their own regulations and training programs specific to their areas of jurisdiction. To comply with the HMR training requirements, individuals must complete a DOT-approved hazardous materials training program that meets the requirements specified in 49 CFR Part 172 Subpart H. Who will enforce the training requirements in §172.704? Enforcement is the responsibility of each U.S. DOT modal administration. Compliance or noncompliance with the training rule will be determined during safety and compliance reviews of shippers, carriers, and package manufacturers. What are the penalties for violating Hazmat regulations? Violations of any hazmat regulations including training may be subject to a civil penalty of up to $77,114 for each violation. If the violation results in death, serious illness, or severe injury to any person or substantial destruction of property, the maximum civil penalty is $179,933. The minimum civil penalty amount for a training violation is $463. Criminal violations may result in fines, imprisonment, or both. An office secretary types the required hazmat description on a shipping paper at the direction of another, item by item. Is the secretary considered to be a hazmat employee requiring training? Yes. Any person who performs a function subject to the HMR must be trained, except for special circumstances addressed by §172.704(e). Do the hazmat training regulations apply to foreign flag vessels carrying hazmat? Yes. The regulations apply to each non-bulk domestic and foreign vessel while operating in navigable waters of the United States. Do hazmat training regulations apply to employees working with materials that are consumer commodities? Yes. Consumer commodities are listed as ORM-D in the hazardous materials table §172.101. Does a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) with HM/tank vehicle endorsement satisfy requirements? Yes, a Commercial Driver's License (CDL) with a hazardous materials (HM) and/or tank vehicle endorsement may satisfy some of the training requirements for employees who handle and transport hazardous materials. However, a hazmat employer must evaluate the employee's specific job functions and determine whether the CDL endorsement alone satisfies all of the training requirements under the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR). According to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) of the Department of Transportation (DOT), a hazmat employer must provide additional hazardous materials training for functions not covered by the CDL endorsement. This may include specific information on the hazardous materials being transported, proper handling and loading/unloading procedures, emergency response procedures, and other safety and security measures. The training must be based on the specific job functions of the employee and be designed to ensure that the employee is knowledgeable and competent to perform their job safely and in compliance with the HMR. Who to reach if I have additional questions? The Hazardous Materials Info Center 1-800-HMR-4922 (1-800-467-4922) Email: infocntr@dot.gov http://hazmat.dot.gov Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration East Building, 2nd Floor 1200 New Jersey Ave., SE Washington, DC 20590 Email: training@dot.gov 202-366-4900

What are the 5 Requirements that HAZWOPER Facilities Must Have?HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response) facilities are facilities that handle hazardous materials and are subject to regulations under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) in the United States. Here are the 5 requirements that HAZWOPER facilities must have: Written safety and health program: HAZWOPER facilities must have a written safety and health program that outlines the procedures and policies for managing hazardous materials, responding to emergencies, and protecting workers.Employee training: All employees who work with hazardous materials must receive training that covers the hazards associated with their job, how to use protective equipment, and how to respond to emergencies.Medical surveillance: HAZWOPER facilities must provide medical surveillance to employees who are exposed to hazardous materials in order to monitor their health and detect any early signs of illness or injury.Personal protective equipment: HAZWOPER facilities must provide and ensure the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect employees from hazards associated with their work.Site-specific safety plan: HAZWOPER facilities must develop a site-specific safety plan that identifies the hazards associated with the specific worksite and outlines the procedures and policies for managing those hazards.

A Competent PersonIs someone who has the knowledge, training, and experience to identify and mitigate hazards in the workplace. The definition of a competent person varies by industry and type of work, but generally, a competent person is someone who has the authority to make decisions about safety and take corrective action when necessary.In some cases, regulatory bodies such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) require the appointment of a competent person for specific tasks or operations, such as excavation work or confined space entry. The competent person must have the necessary training and experience to perform the task safely and ensure that employees are protected from workplace hazards. The competent person may also be responsible for training employees, inspecting equipment, and monitoring the work environment to ensure that safety standards are met.The term "Competent Person" appears in several OSHA standards and documents. According to OSHA's definition [29 CFR 1926.32(f)], a "competent person" is someone who can recognize existing and predictable hazards in the work environment, which are unsafe, unhygienic, or dangerous for employees, and who has the authority to take corrective action to eliminate them. A competent person is typically knowledgeable about the relevant standards, can identify workplace hazards related to the operation, and has the authority to take appropriate corrective measures.Click here to view our competent person training series.

How Many Sections are in the HAZWOPER Regulation?The Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) regulation is divided into several sections. The specific number of sections can vary depending on how the regulation is being referenced or interpreted.However, the most common way of breaking down the regulation is into five sections, which are often referred to as "subparts." These subparts are:    Subpart A - General Provisions    Subpart B - Emergency Response Plan    Subpart C - Training    Subpart D - On-Site Treatment and Storage of Hazardous Waste    Subpart E - Off-Site Treatment and Disposal of Hazardous WasteSome interpretations may also include additional sections or subparts, such as the section on Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), which is covered in Subpart E, or the section on Medical Surveillance, which is covered in Subpart H.

How to Meet U.S. DOT Training Regulations for Shipping and Safety Precautions Humans Need to Follow When Handling Lithium? Handling lithium batteries and cells can be a complicated and potentially hazardous process. In the United States, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has established strict regulations that govern the shipment of these materials to ensure safety and compliance. This article will explore the key U.S. DOT training regulations for shipping fully regulated and excepted lithium batteries and cells. Firstly, it's important to understand that there are two types of lithium batteries and cells: fully regulated and excepted. Fully regulated batteries and cells are those that meet certain criteria, such as containing more than a certain amount of lithium. On the other hand, excepted batteries and cells are those that don't meet these criteria and are therefore considered less dangerous to ship. To comply with U.S. DOT regulations, anyone involved in shipping fully regulated lithium batteries and cells must receive proper training. The training must cover the safe handling and packaging of these materials, as well as the specific regulations that apply to their shipment. The training must covers the security awareness training requirements of the DOT Hazardous Material Regulations (HMR; 49 CFR Parts 171-180). Also, OSHA requires that employees whose job function directly affects the safe transportation of hazardous materials must receive training within 90 days after employment or a change in job function. The U.S. DOT requires that all packages containing these materials be properly labeled with a lithium battery mark and other required information, such as the UN number and proper shipping name. In addition, shippers must provide proper documentation, shipping manifest, including a shipping paper or air waybill. We invite you to explore our online library of Lithium courses that comprehensively cover the OSHA and DOT requirements. In summary, the U.S. DOT has established strict training regulations for the shipment of fully regulated and excepted lithium batteries and cells to ensure safety and compliance. Anyone involved in shipping these materials must receive proper training on the safe handling and packaging of these materials, as well as the specific regulations that apply to their shipment. By following these regulations, shippers can help ensure the safe and compliant transportation of these potentially hazardous materials. Some of the key safety precautions that humans need to follow when handling lithium include: 1.   Proper protective gear: Wear personal protective equipment such as gloves, goggles, and lab coats to avoid skin or eye contact with lithium. 2.    Proper storage: Store lithium in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat and moisture to avoid any reactions or hazards. 3.    Proper handling: Lithium should be handled with care, using tools made of non-reactive materials. Avoid contact with skin or any other body part. 4.    Ventilation: Work in well-ventilated areas to avoid inhalation of dust or fumes, which can cause respiratory irritation. 5.    Fire safety: Lithium can ignite when exposed to air, so it is important to avoid open flames, sparks, or smoking when handling lithium. Also, keep fire extinguishers nearby. 6.    Emergency response: Be aware of emergency response procedures in case of accidents, and know how to properly extinguish any fires that may occur. 7.    Disposal: Always dispose of lithium according to local and federal regulations. Do not dispose of lithium in the trash or other general waste streams. What is the number of Lewis dots present in lithium? Being a member of Group 1 in the periodic table, lithium possesses just one valence electron which resides in the 2s orbital. This solitary electron is denoted as a dot around the symbol of lithium.