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Overview of OSHA’s Coverage in the Different StatesThe Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) through the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Act signed and enacted into law in 1970 by President Nixon has enables the United States to drastically reduce worker injuries in most private sector business operations and select state and local government organizations. Today, OSHA is present in all 50 states and some territories and jurisdictions under federal authority. These jurisdictions include the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Guam, Northern Mariana Islands, Wake Island, Johnston Island, and the Outer Continental Shelf Lands as defined by the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act. Coverage is either directly through OSHA or OSHA-Approved State Plans.OSHA’s mission is “to assure safe and healthful conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and providing training, outreach, education, and compliance assistance”. To achieve this mission, OSHA works tirelessly in collaboration with state partners to safeguard the lives of workers from hazards in the workplace. Currently, OSHA has developed the following standards:Recordkeeping (Part 1904)General Industry (Part 1910)Maritime (Parts 1915, 1917 & 1918)Construction (Part 1926)Agriculture (Part 1928)State Plans (Part 1952)This article will focus on OSHA-Approved State Plans.OSHA-Approved State PlansOSHA-Approved State Plans are job safety and health programs developed and operated by individual states instead of Federal OSHA. These OSHA-Approved State Plans came to be developed as Section 18 of the OSH Act promotes states to develop and operate their health and safety programs to safeguard employees working in industries. The OSH Act also specifies that states should have OSHA-Approved State Plans to be able to enforce OSHA standards.These State Plans are expected to be at a minimum as effective as the Federal OSHA programs. OSHA approves, supports, and monitors all OSHA-Approved State Plans. OSHA also provides as much as 50 percent of the funding for each program.Refer to the State Plans' Safety and Health Standards and Regulations for more details on OSHA-Approved State Plans for the different states.Coverage by OSHA-Approved State PlansOSHA-Approved State Plans cover 22 states and territories including both private sector and state and local government workers. There are also six plans implemented in Connecticut, Illinois, Maine, New Jersey, New York, and the US Virgin Islands that cover only state and local government workers as is permitted by OSHA.It is important to note that workers employed by the state and local government organizations are only given OSH Act protections when a state has an OSHA-Approved State Plan. In states where the OSHA-Approved State Plan covers only state and local government workers, private sector employers and employees fall within the purview of federal OSHA jurisdiction.Differences Between OSHA State Plans and Federal OSHAOSHA-Approved State Plans and Federal OSHA differ in the scope and specificity of the regulations. Besides, the following key differences must also be understood about OSHA-Approved State Plans.State Plans are more responsive to local needs than Federal OSHA.There are 27 State Plans that cover public sector employees, unlike Federal OSHA.State Plans may have innovative programs that promote worker safety and health that are unique to each state.Furthermore, most OSHA-Approved State Plans have stricter standards that must be followed as well as added coverage areas that Federal OSHA does not consider.To gain a better understanding of the coverage of OSHA-Approved State Plans and the role of Federal OSHA regulations in these states, OSHA’s website dedicated to state plans provides comprehensive details of each of the state plans including when it was initially approved and is operations status. Click on the state you wish to review on the map for more information. For example, check out this fact sheet of California’s OSHA-Approved State Plan. The Quick Facts and Information about State Plans is also a useful resource.Steps to Obtain OSHA Approval for a State PlanThe following steps must be followed for states to apply to OSHA to develop and obtain approval for their health and safety state plans.Step 1: Start a Developmental PlanThe state must assure OSHA that it will within three years have all the relevant fundamental aspects required to have in place a fully functional and effective OSHA-Approved State Plan. The following key aspects must be focused on - appropriate legislation; regulations and procedures for standards-setting, enforcement, the appeal of citations and penalties; adequate qualified enforcement personnel.Step 2: Eligibility for CertificationOnce step 1 is completed and the developmental plan has been documented and is ready for review, then the state can apply for certification. This certification merely confirms the completeness and adequacy of the State Plan.Step 3: Operational Status Agreement of the State PlanOnce the initial approval has been received and the state starts implementing the plan, anytime thereafter, whenever it is considered that the State Plan is capable of independently enforcing standards, OSHA may enter into an Operational Status Agreement with the State Plan. Concurrently, OSHA will also suspend any Federal OSHA regulations that are covered by the State Plan.Step 4: Final ApprovalUnder Section 18 (e) of the OSH Act, State Plans can ask for additional final approval from OSHA. This is possible only after one year after receiving the certification (Step 2). Eligibility for final approval rests with OSHA. OSHA must decide if the State Plan is providing workers safety measures that are at a minimum as effective as Federal OSHA. Once final approval is received by OSHA, the State Plan becomes an OSHA-Approved State Plan. OSHA will also surrender all responsibility and authority to cover occupational safety and health matters to the state.States interested in developing an OSHA-Approved State Plan can contact their local OSHA Regional Office for guidance and assistance.Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements of OSHA-Approved State PlansReporting and recordkeeping requirements of OSHA-approved State Plans must be aligned to that of Federal OSHA. For more detailed information refer to the State Plan section of the OSHA website.Evaluating OSHA-Approved State PlansOSHA uses the Federal Annual Monitoring Evaluation (FAME) process to evaluate state plans annually. The key considerations of this evaluation are listed below.To verify if the OSHA-Approved State Plan is at least as effective as Federal OSHA.To track the progress towards meeting strategic and annual performance goals.To track if the OSHA-Approved State Plan is meeting its mandated responsibilities aligned to the OSH Act and other regulations.OSHA provides information on the results of these evaluations. These FAME reports are available for public review on the OSHA website.Fines and Penalties under OSHA-Approved State PlansFines and penalties under an OSHA-Approved State Plan can differ from Federal OSHA but must be at least as effective. A state may also impose higher fines and penalties. If a State Plan is imposing a fine or penalty that differs from Federal OSHA, these must be first reviewed and approved by OSHA. State Plans can, however, have different procedures for the review and appeal of citations, penalties, and abatement periods. While most procedures are similar to those defined by Federal OSHA, cases are heard by a state review board or equivalent authority. Employers from states with OSHA-Approved State Plans will have to comply with state-level standards to avoid fines and penalties.Filing a Workplace Safety and Health Complaint under OSHA-Approved State PlansOSHA protects workers against hazards in the workplace as well as workers’ rights. Accordingly, OSHA provides information, training, and assistance to workers.Workers can file a complaint regarding their workplace if they discover or believe that their employer is not following the standards and regulations as set out under the OSHA-Approved State Plan resulting in serious hazards to workers' health and safety. On receiving a worker complaint, OSHA will inspect the workplace to review the validity of the complaint and then proceed according to the results of their preliminary inspection. All information will be treated as strictly confidential. For more details refer to OSHA's Workers page.Workers can file the complaint at the nearest OSHA Office by calling OSHA's toll-free number: 1-800-321-OSHA (6742) or TTY 1-877-889-5627.Complaints Against OSHA-Approved State PlansAny complaints concerning the operation or administration of an occupational safety and health state plan may be submitted to the appropriate Federal OSHA Regional Administrator. Such a complaint may be in writing or given orally. It is known as ‘Complaint About State Program Administration (CASPA)’. Any person or group of workers lodging a complaint must provide adequate and accurate details for the CASPA to be legitimate, and appropriate action to be taken.Coverage of OSHA Regulations by StateFor more details of OSHA Federal or State-specific coverage, click on the State of your choosing.AlabamaAlaskaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasKentuckyLouisianaMaineMarylandMassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippiMissouriMontanaNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew YorkNorth CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaOregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth CarolinaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyomingAmerican SamoaDistrict of ColumbiaGuamNorthern Mariana IslandsPuerto RicoVirgin Islands References:OSHA. (2020. All About OSHA: U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration OSHA 3302-01R. OSHAOSHA. (n.d.). Frequently Asked Questions. Website. https://www.osha.gov/stateplans/faqs

RCRA Permitted Treatment, Storage, and Disposal (TSD) FacilitiesThe Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) has developed extensive guidance on hazardous and non-hazardous waste management in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under Congress directive. One focus of the RCRA waste management framework is the proper management of hazardous waste in treatment, storage, and disposal (TSD) facilities to ensure the safety and health of people and ensure environmentally friendly operations to safeguard natural resources.The Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) standard developed by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) guides the health and safety of workers engaged in hazardous waste management activities carried out in workplaces that utilize hazardous material also referred to as HAZMAT. As part of its guidance, the HAZWOPER standard has dedicated one section to tackle the safety and health of workers employed in hazardous waste operations in RCRA permitted TSD facilities. As such, most of the guidance is aligned to the requirements as set out by the RCRA.Two regulatory bodies enacting standards, guidelines, and regulations to direct the operations of employees working in TSD facilities are evidence of the importance given to safeguarding employee health and safety in TSD facilities.What are TSD Facilities?TSD facilities offer services that carry out hazardous waste management by the treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous wastes and hazardous waste materials using different pre-approved methods. TSD facilities may focus their waste services and specialize in one or more of the activities related to waste treatment, storage, and hazardous waste disposal services. As such, TSD facilities are also often referred to as hazardous waste management facilities.What Operations Are Performed by TSD Facilities?Operations performed by TSD facilities constitute the following:Treatment facilities provide final waste treatment for HAZMAT using chemicals, or incineration or oxidation, or a physical waste-processing system to reduce, remove, or destroy the contaminated element of the hazardous waste. In some cases, this recycled waste may then be re-used in other manufacturing processes or may even be used for other purposes. An example is the use of treated wastewater to clean factory floors.Storage facilities would temporarily hold quantities of hazardous waste produced on or off-site until they are treated or disposed of. According to RCRA regulations, the storage of contaminated waste must be done in containers, tanks, containment buildings, drip pads, waste piles, or surface impoundments.Disposal facilities permanently hold the hazardous waste in landfills using specifically designed and constructed units that safeguard groundwater and surface water resources. (EPA, 2019)What Regulations Apply to TSD Facilities?Since TSD facilities handle large quantities of hazardous waste and perform tasks that are of a higher risk level for employees’ safety and health, TSD facilities are rigorously regulated. The EPA states, that “TSD facility requirements establish generic facility management standards, specific provisions governing hazardous waste management units, and additional precautions designed to protect soil, groundwater, and air resources” (EPA, 2020).Under its HAZWOPER standard, OSHA specifies TSD facilities to follow the regulations of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 40 parts 264 and 265 consistent with the RCRA regulations or of agencies under agreement with the United States EPA to implement RCRA regulations.What Training Is Needed for Employees of TSD Facilities?Training required for employees working in TSD facilities mainly follows the RCRA training requirements. Even the EPA and HAZWOPER defer to the training requirements as guided by the RCRA. The details are given below.RCRA TrainingFor an overview of the online RCRA training requirements, review our blog article titled - Overview of RCRA Online Training.HAZWOPER TrainingAccording to the HAZWOPER standard, personnel involved in hazardous waste operations in TSD facilities require training if their work tasks expose them to hazards or there is a reasonable probability of employees being exposed to worksite safety or health hazards. According to OSHA HAZWOPER regulation number 1910.120(p)(7) of Subpart H, an employer must develop and implement training programs for new employees, current employees, and trainers. The specifications of training programs for new and existing employees are explained below.24 Hour Initial TSDF Operations Online Training CourseAccording to the OSHA HAZWOPER standard, an employer must develop and implement a 24-hour TSDF operations training program for new employees as part of its overall health and safety program plan. Employees must be trained on the regulatory requirements, different types of hazards they can be exposed to at the worksite, how to minimize hazard exposure, decontamination process, how to use personal protective equipment (PPE), correct use of respiratory protection units, medical surveillance and toxicology, how to safely use hazardous waste storage containers, and how to respond to worksite emergencies.Such training may be conducted online. Our dedicated course for TSDF operations, the OSHA 24-hour initial online training course for new employees of TSD facilities gives a comprehensive understanding of how operations at TSD facilities may be conducted safely by workers.On completion of the initial 24-hour TSDF operations online training course, employees must be provided with a certificate of completion.8 Hour TSDF Operations Refresher Online Training CourseFor current employees, or employees who have previously taken the initial 24-hour TSDF HAZWOPER (p) series online training course, or for those employees who have prior field experience of working at TSD facilities, the OSHA HAZWOPER standard recommends an 8-hour annual refresher training when continuing to work at TSD facilities. This training course must be taken annually to ensure that employees are updated and able to retain their knowledge while they continue to safeguard their health and the safety of their co-workers at TSD facilities.The areas to be covered are the same as those topics in the 24-hour TSDF operations online training course, but the reduced training hours of this online course will limit the breadth and depth of information included in the training program.Such training may be conducted online. Our OSHA 8-hour TSDF operations refresher online training course is available online and enables employees working with hazardous waste to refresh and renew their understanding of how operations at TSD facilities may be conducted safely. It must be noted that this 8-hour online refresher training course must be taken within 12 months of completing the initial 24-hour TSD facilities initial training course or the previous refresher 8-hour HAZWOPER TSDF training program.On completion of the 8-hour HAZWOPER TSDF operations refresher online training course, employees must be provided with a certificate of completion.HAZWOPER’s Requirements Regarding Clean Up at TSD FacilitiesGenerally, workers of TSD facilities are not expected to be involved in clean-up operations of hazardous wastes. However, the OSHA HAZWOPER standard specifies that in instances where an employee may be exposed to safety and health hazards due to a clean-up operation at TSD facilities, they require to have completed the initial OSHA 24-hour HAZWOPER TSDF operations online training course and thereafter enroll in and complete the OSHA 8-hour HAZWOPER TSDF operations refresher online training course.EPA TrainingThe EPA has developed a comprehensive training module for TSD facilities. This training module is aligned to the RCRA's cradle-to-grave concept. It encompasses training requirements for TSD facilities that are part of the value chain of waste management, starting with the waste generator and including the hazardous waste transporters. This training module covers an overview of the general TSDF standards found in 40 CFR Part 264/265, Subparts A through E (EPA, 2005, p.1).  ReferencesEPA. (2005, September). Training Module: Introduction to Treatment, Storage, and Disposal Facilities (40 CFR Parts 264/265, Subpart A-E). [PDF]. Website. https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2015-07/documents/tsdf05.pdfEPA. (2019, November 21, updated). What is a Hazardous Waste Management Facility? Website. https://www.epa.gov/hwpermitting/hazardous-waste-management-facilities-and-units#facilityEPA. (2020, February 19, updated). Hazardous Waste Recycling, Treatment, Storage, and Disposal. Website. https://www.epa.gov/hw/learn-basics-hazardous-waste#recycling

Fall Protection: The Difference Between Life and DeathToday’s employers have a range of fall protection measures, processes, procedures, and equipment to safeguard employees working at heights or close to holes in the ground. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) has also provided a range of regulations for fall protection. In a time when people have such extensive means of protecting workers against falls, why do we have so many work-related injuries and casualties attributed to a failure to implement fall protection measures? The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported 887 fall-related workplace fatalities in 2017 and 791 fall-related workplace fatalities in 2018. While the transportation industry is the leading cause of workplace fatalities due to motor vehicle accidents; slips, trips, and falls are attributed with approximately 15 to 18 percent of workplace fatalities. Worker fatalities based on occupational analysis reveals roofers and structural iron and steel workers to be amongst the top 10 occupations with worker fatalities, contributing to deaths caused by falls. As such, while the decreasing rates are encouraging, there is still much room for increased adoption of fall protection in industries such as construction and mining.OSHA’s Fall Protection StandardContinuing its focus on ensuring the safety and health of workers, OSHA addresses the need for fall protection in its construction industry-standard 29 CFR 1926. The standard dedicates Subpart M to recommend guidelines for fall protection in the construction industry. One of the key mandates is to install and provide fall protection measures when employees work abovefour feet in general industry workplaces,five feet in shipyards,six feet in the construction industry,eight feet in long shoring operations, and10 feet over the lower level when working on scaffolding.Besides, the standard requires protection to be provided to workers from “falling objects, falls from tripping over or falling through holes and when walking around dangerous equipment regardless of the height”(OSHA, 2015, pp 1). OSHA in its publication Fall Protection in Construction said, “falls are the leading cause of fatalities in construction, accounting for about one-third of all fatalities in the industry”(2015, pp 1). Addressing this issue, OSHA further states that it is an employer’s responsibility to access the workplace for possible causes of falls, by regularly checking working surfaces and other temporary work structures to ensure structural integrity and the use of fall protection measures to protect workers' safety and health.Applying the Fall Protection StandardThe standard applies to construction work and activities where workers workon runways, ramps, or walkways;at the edge of an excavation;in a hoist area;on a steep roof;on or close to wall openings;on surfaces with holes including skylights;near unprotected sides or edges of elevated platforms or half-constructed buildings; andon the face of formwork and reinforcing steel.The standard also applies when workers are undertaking certain tasks such aslaying out roofing,constructing a leading-edge,performing overhand bricklaying,undertaking residential construction, orprecast concrete erection.Some tasks require workers to work over dangerous machinery, equipment, hazardous liquids, or chemicals. These include such items as open drive belts, gears, chemical vats, boiling water, or pulleys. In this case, irrespective of the fall distance, OSHA requires employers to install fall protection measures and provide personal fall arrest systems to employees as appropriate.How can Employers Reduce Falls?By installing fall protection measuresFirst, employers should identify fall hazards and decide how to provide the best protection. Some of the OSHA fall protection recommendations that have helped increase the safety of workers and made the difference between no injury, minor injury, and major injury or fatality are listed below.GuardrailsRailingsFloor hole coverToe-boardSafety harnessSafety linesSafety netsPersonal fall protection systems as explained in Subpart I of the standardStair railingsHandrailsBy utilizing these fall protection mechanisms, employers can ensure that open holes in the ground or at heights are guarded, open ends on elevated platforms are barricaded, and equipment used such as ladders and other elevated platforms are structurally sound. These protective measures will also establish workplace fall protection protocols and help employers to decrease the probability of accidents resulting from falls.Fall protection measures to safeguard employeesSome measures employers may utilize to protect employees from being injured from falls are listed below.Keeping worksites free of known dangers.Keeping the ground at worksites free of objects resulting in tripping.Keeping floors clean and in a dry condition.Providing workers with personal protective equipment (PPE).Guarding every hole on the ground to prevent workers from accidentally walking into it.Installing guardrails around elevated open-sided platforms or walkways.Protecting workers carrying out tasks at high levels (such as repairs or bricklaying) by installing guardrail systems or safety nets and providing them with personal fall arrest systems.Protecting workers carrying out risky or dangerous tasks at high levels (such as roofing work on low-slope roofs) from falling by using guardrail systems, safety net systems, personal fall arrest systems, a warning line system, and a safety monitoring system.Installing and using additional protective systems such as stair railings, handrails, warning line systems, controlled access zones, and safety monitoring systems as and when required.By providing fall protection training to workersThe second method is by training employees. It must be noted that OSHA also mandates employers to impart fall protection training to employees to make them aware of workplace hazards and prevent construction-related injuries and accidents. Training is needed so that employees can identify, predict, prevent, and stop fall hazards at a worksite. Employers are obligated to provide both book learning and field training to ensure employers grasp the varying aspects of fall prevention measures. Training can take place on the worksite or in a facility with a competent trainer.  Alternatively, employers can impart fall protection online training to workers so they can learn at their own pace, anywhere, anytime.One such training is online training for fall protection. The Competent Person for Fall Protection Training course offered by HAZWOPER_OSHA is aimed atUnderstanding OSHA regulations relating to fall protection.Knowing the responsibilities of a competent person for fall protection.Identifying the three major types of fall protection systems.Understanding the requirements for the safe and effective use of a personal fall arrest system and its various components.Calculating the total fall clearance distance for a personal fall arrest system.Understanding the six steps for donning a full-body harness.Comprehending OSHA’s regulatory requirements for the safe use of ladders and stairways.Understanding the importance of pre-operation inspection of the vehicle and lift components while using an aerial lift in terms of worker safety.An important element of fall protection training is to ensure that workers know how to use and inspect personal fall protection equipment and fall arrest systems. They must be trained to use, store, inspect, and clean the equipment to ensure its long-term sustainability. Particular attention should be given to identifying attachment points of personal fall protection equipment and fall arrest systems to ensure safety.Inspecting Fall Protection Equipment Before Every UseAccording to OSHA’s construction standard - 1926.502(d) (21), all fall arrest systems used at the construction site should be inspected thoroughly before every use for wear and tear, and other damages. Defective components should be immediately replaced. Besides this, a competent person, a government, or a private agency recognized by the U.S Department of Labor should inspect the equipment every six months.Business owners must keep a record of these inspections and on every corrective action taken.  Reviewing every piece of the fall protection systems used at the worksite can significantly reduce the risk of injuries or fatality.Conventional Fall Protection Systems Vs. Site-Specific Fall Protection PlanOSHA assumes that using conventional fall protection systems such as guardrails, personal fall arrest systems, or safety nets is adequate for the safety of workers except in some exceptional circumstances when a site-specific fall protection plan is required by an employer. OSHA has identified three situations when an employer may be required to use a site-specific fall protection plan that complies with 29CFR 1926.502(k).During leading-edge work.When workers are undertaking precast concrete erection.During residential construction. Reference:OSHA. (2015). Fall Protection in Construction [PDF]. Website. https://media.hazwoper-osha.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/13193547/OSHA3146.pdf

Returning to Work Post Pandemic: Pandemic Planning Measures for Continued Health and Safety of Employees The current COVID-19 pandemic has caused much upheaval across the world. Economic activity, for the most part, was drastically reduced and life as we know it changed. International and local health organizations recommended people observe social distancing rules, wear facemasks, wash hands often, and use hand sanitizers. Commerce suffered mainly as organizations were forced to shut down to safeguard the health and safety of employees and reduce the disease outbreak. For employees, the biggest impact came from the sudden trend to work from home. However, as control measures such as self-quarantine and lockdowns yielded positive results with the virus spread being controlled, economies started slowly re-opening. Thus, employees are now returning to work. But as the pandemic is still ongoing and emergency management continues to be enacted, employers are expected to implement emergency preparedness plans and measures to ensure the occupational health and safety of their workers. Importance of Pandemic Planning When a pandemic occurs, it is unexpected and causes much havoc in people’s lives and the continuity of business operations. It also creates a panic situation as information knowledge of the pandemic is scarce and limited at the beginning. This makes it critical for employers to have in place an organizational pandemic preparation process to limit business disruption and ensure business continuity. An important reason for pandemic planning is to ensure the confidence of employees during this unusual period. When an employer has taken the required steps to protect employees during a pandemic, they will feel more safe and secure and are more likely to report to work. These employees will also have greater confidence knowing that all necessary precautions have been considered and enacted. This will allow employers to control absenteeism. Secondly, when an employer has planned for a pandemic, they will be better placed to communicate plans clearly and concisely to employees. As emergency communication is vital during times of a pandemic, pre-planning will allow an employer to ensure effective communication plans, resulting in improving employee confidence and thereby reducing absenteeism. A third reason for the importance of planning is to ensure employees are given adequate knowledge and understanding of the pandemic. Employers must train employees to understand what a pandemic is; what the current pandemic entails; be prepared to handle emergencies; implement emergency plans and understand the precautions to adopt against the virus. A pandemic situation can also give rise to changes in e-commerce patterns. People’s demands for goods and services saw a change during the last few months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Consumers are demanding more hygiene products and there has been a high demand for facemasks. Shopping patterns have changed with more people shopping online, shopping during off-peak hours, and making payments electronically. This will result in changes in business processes, and pandemic planning will ensure organizations have in place a business continuity plan which considers these new challenges for future sustained growth. The fifth reason for organizational pandemic planning is to safeguard the organization from supply and delivery interruption and/or stoppage. The sudden halt in economic activity due to the extended lockdown in most countries around the world resulted in many organizations facing disruptions in their supply chain process. By undertaking comprehensive pandemic planning, an organization can ensure that such interruption is minimized by having identified other local supply sources to counter canceled or delayed shipments from overseas. OSHA’s Guidance on Pandemic Planning OSHA has two guidance documents for pandemic planning. One is directed at guiding workplaces during an influenza pandemic and the second is specifically targeted at preparing workplaces for COVID-19. Both these guidance documents offer employers information on the do’s and don’ts of pandemic planning as employees prepare to return to work. OSHA suggests using the Occupational Risk Pyramid to identify the risk of an employee’s exposure to the hazards related to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Based on the different risk exposure levels, the Hierarchy of Controls may be used to identify the different levels of controls necessary to implement precautionary measures and for hazard mitigation to safeguard employees while at work. Using the Hierarchy of Controls will enable employers to devise a pandemic plan which integrates the elements of the different levels of controls to suit their organization. While the most effective controls are eliminating and/or substituting hazards, this process may prove to be difficult to implement and difficult to achieve in case of a pandemic. Concurrently, employers also must implement a range of work practice controls, administrative controls, and engineering controls. Finally, employees must provide workers with personal protective equipment (PPE) as needed, and teach them how to effectively use them (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention [CDC], 2015). Steps to Effectively Implement Pandemic Planning When preparing an emergency plan to mitigate the hazards of a pandemic and ensure worker safety and health, OSHA recommends a comprehensive pandemic planning checklist which is incorporated within these six steps. Develop an infectious disease preparedness and response plan. Prepare a basic implementation plan for infection prevention measures. Develop policies and procedures for prompt identification and isolation of sick people. Develop, implement, and communicate workplace flexibilities and protections. Implement workplace controls. Follow existing OSHA Standards. (OSHA, 2020) As part of the above process, employers will also evaluate the sources of workers’ hazard exposure to the disease outbreak while at work and consider the exposure while the worker is at home or while carrying out daily activities such as grocery shopping. Besides, employers must incorporate all guidelines and best practices shared by the federal, state, and local governments when planning for a pandemic. Employers should also be aware of and incorporate relevant guidance and recommendations given by local health organizations and international health agencies such as the World Health Organization (WHO) when undertaking the pandemic planning process. Following the guidance set out by OSHA as above will enable employers to plan for business continuity in a pandemic situation while ensuring worker health and safety. Here are some highlights from the pandemic planning measures above for review. For complete guidance read OSHA’s publication OSHA 3990. Pandemic Planning Measures Here is a list of pandemic planning measures that employers may adopt to safeguard their workers and reduce the risk of contracting the virus. This is just the tip of the iceberg. For more details and comprehensive guidance review OSHA 3990 guidance publication. Workplace Reorganization or Restructuring – Employers will have to reorganize and rearrange the workspaces of employees to enable recommended practices for pandemic planning such as social distancing and minimal physical contact. To ensure employees keep six feet of distance between each other, desks may have to be placed to observe this guideline in shared open office spaces. Furthermore, to ensure social distancing is maintained, visitors’ chairs would have to be placed farther apart. Using engineering control measures, employers may have to build plastic shield guards in front of customer service counters or in instances of high-risk work environments, to install ventilators. For employees working at construction sites, employers may need to review the number of people in a shift and provide them with added PPE as required to suit the needs of the pandemic plan. Work Process Changes – Whenever and wherever possible review and restructure work processes. For example, encourage customers to use email or phone calls for issues reporting, establish a policy of online employee meetings, and provide necessary tools and equipment so that workers do not have to share them. Employers will also have to change the process of entering and exiting the workplaces as recommended. For the current coronavirus pandemic, OSHA recommendations are for workers to wash their hands before they enter the workplace and avoid physical contact. Use administrative controls such as notices of good hygiene practices and reminders to wear facemasks and to keep six feet of distance between workers and other stakeholders would also be effective. Introduce a Disinfection Process – In the case of the current COVID-19 pandemic, a good practice is to follow a meticulous cleaning process of worksites and common equipment daily. If worksites require workers to wear PPE such as hardhats, fall protection gear, and HAZMAT suits, then ensure workers diligently carry out a disinfection process at the end of their work shift. While this is a recommended practice by OSHA when employers work with hazardous substances and toxins, it is a recommended guide when implementing pandemic planning measures. Provision of Hygiene Products - Employees should be given hand sanitizers and disinfectant wipes and encouraged to use them as often as needed. This is especially important when employees work in groups or have contact with third parties and customers. Encourage the Wearing of PPE – Wearing of PPE is an OSHA and EPA recommendation for many worksites and occupations. However, as part of the pandemic prevention process, all people are expected to wear facemasks for their safety and the safety of others. This also applies to employees who should wear a facemask while at work and done gloves if interacting with many people. For high-risk occupations, OSHA recommends much more intensive PPE usage which employees must adhere to. Training and Educating – Training is an important part of pandemic planning. Employers must train employees to identify symptoms of the pandemic. Employees must also know what precautions to take and what to do in case of being infected by the virus or when they suspect another person of being infected. As some employees may need to wear PPE, they must be trained on how to use, wear, store, clean, and discard PPE properly. Encourage High-Risk Employees to Work from Home – Employees who are immunocompromised, pregnant, have pre-existing health conditions, and of an older age should be encouraged to work from home. Promote Basic Safety Measures – Employers should promote handwashing, hand sanitizations, limited physical contact, no touching of the nose and/or mouth, and practicing social distancing amongst all employees and stakeholders who visit business premises as part of the pandemic planning process. Flexible Working Options – Offer employers flexible working options so that they are not over-stressed in an already stressful situation. The pandemic crisis has changed employees’ daily routines. With schools and daycare centers closed, employees who are also parents have added responsibility of looking after their children. So, give them a little room to manage their diverse responsibilities without becoming overly stressed. Clarify the Sick Leave and Insurance Policies – As part of administrative control measures, it is important that employers clearly explain any changes to sick leave policies and the insurance benefits of workers. In pandemic planning, sick leave and insurance are key aspects to encourage workers to be responsible. Employers will also have to review the current situation and make changes as required so that workers who are sick do not feel they will be penalized for staying at home. Consider the increased possibility of family emergencies and dependents falling ill requiring help from family members. Accordingly, incorporate relevant changes in sick leave and insurance policies. Enroll for an Online Training Today! Having read this brief article on the importance of pandemic planning measures, enroll in HAZWOPER-OSHA's Pandemic Awareness, Preparedness, and Response Online Training and gain a better understanding of how to handle the current COVID-19 pandemic in your workplaces.   References: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2015, January 13). Hierarchy of Controls. Website. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/hierarchy/default.html OSHA. (2020). Guidance on Preparing Workplaces for COVID-19 [PDF]. Website. https://media.hazwoper-osha.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/08075422/OSHA3990.pdf Published on: August 4, 2020

Overview of RCRA Online TrainingWhat is RCRA?The RCRA acronym stands for the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act. According to the EPA, “RCRA is a combination of the first federal solid waste statutes and all subsequent amendments” (2020a). It is a set of laws and regulations governed by the EPA and developed to describe the waste management program mandated by Congress (EPA, 2020a). Therefore, the RCRA is in effect a framework used by the EPA “for the proper management of hazardous and non-hazardous solid waste” (EPA, 2020b). RCRA is often used by industry professionals to refer to either the RCRA law, RCRA regulations, or the EPA policy and guidance on RCRA (EPA, 2020b).Application of the RCRA ProgramBy the application of the RCRA program, the EPA has complete authority to regulate all aspects of hazardous and non-hazardous waste management to protect the environment and the health of people. Any industry which generates, transports, treats, stores, cleans up, or disposes of hazardous and non-hazardous waste materials is mandated to follow the stringent regulatory requirements for waste management, and provide different levels of RCRA training for their employees. Hazard waste producers are regulated according to the quantity of waste generated and not on the size of their facility (EPA, 2020c).The laws, regulations, and standards of the RCRA; and the RCRA training requirements are covered by Title 40 (Protection of the Environment) of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Parts 239 through 282.Waste Regulated by the RCRAThe RCRA regulates and controls non-hazardous waste, hazardous waste, medical wastes, hazardous waste clean-up operations, collection of hazardous material wastes for transport, and underground hazardous waste storage tanks. These wastes can be solid, liquid, or gaseous. However, to be considered waste, the RCRA requires such waste to be disposed of (EPA, 2020d).Evolving Purpose of the RCRA ProgramThe RCRA program has changed and progressed over the years. Today, it aims to resolve ongoing challenges of HAZMAT waste generation and management including:population growth causing ever-increasing demands from natural resources,waste generated from increasingly efficient air and water pollution control devices,increasing amounts of highly toxic waste caused by increasing consumption, andthe need to supervise waste clean-up or disposal from closed facilities. (EPA, 2020e)RCRA Online Training RequirementsPart 262 – Standards Applicable to Generators of Hazardous WasteSubpart A under Section 262.17 provides general guidance applicable to generators of hazardous waste. The section recommends employees complete either an RCRA online training such as computer-based training or electronic training, classroom instruction, or on-the-job training to enable them to perform their job tasks to comply with this part. Also, an annual RCRA refresher training is mandated for workers employed by ‘large quantity waste generators’, while employees of ‘small quantity waste generators’ are expected to be "thoroughly familiar" with the RCRA regulatory standard.Subpart K which provides waste management regulations for Laboratories Owned by Eligible Academic Entities under Section 262.207 gives guidance on training. This section discusses a choice of training methods including RCRA online training which employers may use to provide training to laboratory workers and students to ensure they understand the requirements in this part.Part 264 – Standards for Owners and Operators of Hazardous Waste Treatment, Storage, and Disposal FacilitiesSubpart B pertains to general facility standards and details personnel training requirements under

Benefits of 8 Hour HAZWOPER Refresher Training OSHA, the foremost authority on employee safety and health in the United States, emphasizes the importance of health and safety training in all their standards. Therefore, employers are expected to train and educate their employees on safety and health topics related to the workplace. Health and safety training becomes critical for occupations where workers must deal with chemicals and toxins, bloodborne pathogens, biohazards, radioactive material, fire hazards, flammable materials, hazardous waste, and a range of other hazardous substances. Employees who work in different industries such as telecommunications, airlines, construction, healthcare, etc., also must be trained on safety measures and hazard recognition. Worksites such as mining operations, trenching and excavation sites, roadworks, mills, factory operations, and medical and emergency services fall within construction safety training. When these different occupations, industries, and workplaces are combined, the result is the requirement to educate and train most of the American workforce in health and safety preparedness in the workplace. The 8 Hour HAZWOPER Refresher Training Requirements OSHA’s HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response) standard provides guidance on health and safety training when workers are engaged in hazardous waste activities carried out in workplaces that work with hazardous material (HAZMAT). The HAZWOPER standard recommends employers give different levels of training for different job tasks and work responsibilities. The first is the initial training courses for all workers employed at such workplaces before they are allowed to begin work. Then there are the training programs directed at supervisors and managers. The third is the specialized training course for workers working in confined spaces, at heights (fall protection), handling HAZMAT, in hazardous waste management, and HAZMAT emergency responders. Finally, HAZWOPER specifies 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training for workers when there has been no significant change in their job duties and or the hazards present at workplaces. All these HAZMAT training courses must be taken annually, and a certification obtained from an authorized trainer. Employers’ should note that these HAZWOPER training programs are twofold, requiring both online training and field training for individual workers. The same applies to the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher courses. The HAZWOPER standard suggests a total of 18 safety training courses, segregated into three sections. Section (e) focuses on training for general site workers engaged in operations conducted at hazardous waste sites that may or may not expose them to hazardous substances. This section has six training programs. Section (p) focuses on training for workers engaged in certain hazardous waste operations conducted under the RCRA and at the TSDFs. This section has two training courses. Finally, section (q) focuses on training for workers engaged in emergency response operations for release of, or substantial threat of release of, hazardous substances without regard to the location of the hazard. This section has a total of 10 online safety training programs. Of these 18 safety training programs, eight are ‘8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training courses’ aimed at fulfilling the requirements of the respective sections. Why the Emphasis on 8-hour HAZWOPER Refresher Training Courses? The 8-hour refresher course is designed to meet the annual training requirement for hazardous waste operations and emergency response workers. According to OSHA, these 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training courses as specified in sections (e), (p), and (q) is the minimum required training for HAZWOPER workers (OSHA Standard Interpretations Response Letter, 1992). These 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher courses are recommended as an annual revision to ensure workers who have already received other HAZWOPER training courses keep their knowledge on occupational health and safety accurate and updated. For instance, the OSHA 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher online training for general workers under Section (e) mainly consists of a summary of subjects covered under the HAZWOPER 40-hour program. The list that follows gives guidance on a range of topics that may be reviewed during this 8-hour refresher HAZWOPER training program. Changes to the EPA or OSHA standards or laws. The HAZWOPER standard and any changes or updates. Core elements of an occupational safety and health program. Hazard Communication HAZWOPER site operations and site characterization. Medical surveillance. Toxicology. Classification of hazards. Personal protective equipment and when to use PPE. Decontamination. Air monitoring. Handling chemical hazards, hazardous substances, and hazardous wastes. Emergency response plan and procedures. If possible, these topics may be customized to suit employer requirements and include any new developments which took place in the workplace in the preceding 12 months. However, as it has become exceedingly popular and cost-effective to use commercial online HAZWOPER trainers for the off-site portion of the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training, employers can provide employer-specific information to workers on-site at weekly or monthly employee meetings. Such information may include changes to the employer’s safety policies and procedures, analysis of hazardous incidents that have occurred in the past year, changes in or upgrades to equipment, and PPE usage requirements. Important Note: The above is not an exhaustive list of topics covered under the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher course but a summary for understanding purposes only. An 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher online training course can differ depending on the target audience. Details by OSHA for the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training course requirements may be obtained from the non-mandatory Appendix H of the HAZWOPER standard. Similarly, section (q) of the HAZWOPER standard gives in-depth details on the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training required by emergency personnel categorized as first responders, hazardous material specialists, hazardous material technicians, and incident commanders at a worksite. Section (p) meanwhile has the relevant information on the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training for workers involved in hazardous waste operations conducted under the RCRA and TSDFs. What are the Advantages of an 8 hour HAZWOPER Refresher Training? The advantage of taking the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training can be viewed from the employer’s and an employee’s perspective. How does the 8 hour HAZWOPER Refresher Training benefit the Employer? Reduction in training costs For employers, the most significant benefit is the possibility to reduce costs. The 8-hour HAZWOPER refresher training is less costly than the longer HAZWOPER training programs. Also, as the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher is available online, it is easily accessible by all employees working at different worksites and time zones. Reducing workplace accidents Continuous training will ensure employees are current on changing safety regulations and processes. This will result in reduced accidents and injury and fewer fatalities at work. Fewer cases of workplace injuries mean less paperwork and official reports to file with authorities, thereby reducing the hassle of recordkeeping. Employers would also be able to reduce expenses for worker compensation while increasing the safety management rating of the worksite. Fulfilling regulatory requirements and safety compliance responsibilities As the 8-hour refresher training is mandated by OSHA in its HAZWOPER standard, facilitating such employee training would result in OSHA compliance. Employers will also be able to avoid unfavorable legal issues when safety best practices are refreshed annually by the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher program plan. Besides, employers would be regarded as socially responsible corporates respecting workers’ rights. Emphasizing employee safety and health As every employer is tasked with the responsibility of providing safe working conditions for their employees, regular training stresses the importance of workplace safety. Refresher training such as the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher online program also reiterates the employer’s views of workplace health and safety courses, hazardous material training,  and investment in employee safety. Minimal time spent away from work Online training courses will take workers away from work for a shorter time. This is true when employees take the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training as opposed to the longer safety training programs. By spending limited time away from work, or even taking a self-paced course during personal time, implies reduced workplace disruption and a negligible impact on productivity. Building an engaged workforce Employers who ensure their employees are prepared to handle hazardous waste emergencies through regular 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training on health and safety will ensure a positive safety culture. Such employers will have a workforce that is secure in their knowledge of wellbeing at work. Ultimately, when employees are secure, happy, and engaged, they will be motivated to give their best in their job. This will result in high performances leading to higher productivity and successful business operations. Creating a positive organizational reputation Organizations that have high health and safety standards and low injury rates are favored by prospective employees, especially in the construction industry. They succeed in building a good reputation in the industry and amongst key stakeholders. Sponsoring refresher trainings such as the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher course is one path to achieve this position. How does the 8 hour HAZWOPER Refresher Training benefit Employees? Training at personal convenience As the annual training is mandatory to keep the HAZWOPER training certifications current, the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher course is faster to complete. This means less time spent on training. Also, as the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training is often offered as an online training program, employees will be able to apply a self-paced training schedule. Knowledge retention is a key aspect of the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher program Individuals will be successful in keeping knowledge of HAZWOPER regulatory, technical, and safety procedures current after following the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training. Repetition improves learning and helps people remember, and as some information received during the 8-hour refresher training may be rarely used, annual training ensures faster recall when there is an emergency. Safeguards against health hazard and increasing safety awareness Workers who enroll in the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher online course will have the know-how to safeguard against personal accidents and injuries, hazardous incidents such as spills and contamination, and other site hazards. This will reduce lost time from work and preserve livelihoods and lifestyles. Workers who practice site safety will also have good work records. Such employees may also be given new work responsibilities and opportunities which enable them to grow their careers. Helps plan for future OSHA HAZWOPER safety training As the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training is only a summary program, an employee taking the training would be able to identify gaps in his/her training and better understand future training needs. If required, workers can request considerably longer safety programs such as the HAZWOPER 40 or HAZWOPER 24 online training programs in the forthcoming year mentioning the need for in-depth knowledge on some topics. A sense of accomplishment after completing the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher program Employees who are continually trained on safety measures and emergency procedures, feel the employer trusts them with their safety as well as the health and safety of their peers. This is one of the reasons that OSHA’s regulations encourage employee yearly training by using planned courses such as the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher program. As more information and knowledge is retained through retraining opportunities such as those provided by the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher trainings, employees will gain a sense of achievement while becoming more confident in themselves. This will ultimately become personal motivating factors. Finally, Ensure the 8 hour HAZWOPER Refresher Training or any safety and health training is effective When deciding on an 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training, ensure the training program and the trainer are effective and meet workplace safety training requirements. Remember, the training course is expected to energize the workforce and increase employee safety, self-worth, and motivation. So, choose the right online training course by answering the following questions: Q1: Will the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher course make my employees competent in the workplace? Q2: Does the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training cover topics which are relevant to my business operations? Q3: Will the chosen 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher training program help the company motivate and engage our employees? Q4: Will the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher course offer advice from authorized trainers? Q5: Will the 8 hour HAZWOPER refresher online training give a certificate of completion of training to my employees?    References OSHA Standard Interpretations Response Letter. (1992, July 21). https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/standardinterpretations/1992-07-21-0

The HAZWOPER 24 Hour Initial TrainingThe Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) is an important set of standards developed and managed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The HAZWOPER standards provide guidance for the safety and health of workers who handle HAZMAT, work with hazardous waste, and participate in emergency response and rescue operations of hazardous waste cleaning operations. This standard was enacted due to the recommendation of the Superfund Amendments Reauthorization Act (SARA) of 1986. According to the State of North Carolina Department of Labor (NCDOL), the topic of HAZWOPER covers “two critical subjects: hazardous waste site operations and emergency response to the uncontrolled release of chemicals” (n.d., para. 1).What is Hazardous Waste?The Code of Federal Regulations gives an all-encompassing definition of hazardous waste under its Protection of Environment regulation. Alternately, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) defines hazardous waste as “a waste with properties that make it dangerous or capable of having a harmful effect on human health or the environment” (2020, para. 2). A distinguishing characteristic of hazardous waste is its requirement for a specialist disposal methodology such as treatment or a solidification process. An example is a wastewater treatment plant which is often found in many plants and manufacturing facilities.Hazardous waste is generated by many industries and functions, as well as manufacturing processes and even in our homes. Hazardous wastes have diverse physical states such as gaseous, liquids, or solids. Furthermore, hazardous wastes are of different categories and carry different hazard levels. As such, information on handling hazardous waste when carrying out a job task, and during the cleanup process is covered in all HAZWOPER training including the HAZWOPER 24-hour course.What does Emergency Response mean in HAZWOPER?The NCDOL defines “emergency response or responding to an emergency as a response effort by employees from outside the immediate release area or by other designated responders to an occurrence which results, or is likely to result, in an uncontrolled release of a hazardous substance” (n.d., para. 2). OSHA categorizes an emergency response as an “uncontrolled release of a hazardous substance, or where an uncontrolled release is likely” (n.d.a, para. 6). In case of a hazardous waste emergency, an emergency response team would be required to do everything in their power to prevent the spread of hazardous materials to limit the negative impact on the safety and health of people and biodiversity.In the following instances, there would be no need for emergency response:If an accidental release of a hazardous substance or waste is controllable through either absorption or adsorption.If an unintentional discharge of hazardous wastes or materials can be neutralized at once after the occurrence of the incident by workers in the vicinity or maintenance personnel.Who are HAZWOPER Workers?So, who among the American workforce are categorized as hazardous waste and emergency response workers? As hazardous materials and waste emergencies occur in most industries, any person who works in an industry that generates hazardous waste or uses hazardous substances would be considered a HAZWOPER worker. Similarly, those individuals working in emergency response teams, and those employed by the national emergency response services considered to be HAZWOPER employees. Firefighters asked to deal with hazard-related emergencies is an example of HAZWOPER workers.OSHA’s HAZWOPER standard covers employees working for:hazardous waste site cleanup operations;facilities involved in hazardous waste treatment, storage, and disposal (TSD) facilities; andemergency response operations involving hazardous substance releases. (OSHA, n.d.a)How many HAZWOPER Standards Exist?Both OSHA and the EPA under the authority of the Superfund have released identical HAZWOPER standards. The difference exists in its target employer groups. OSHA’s HAZWOPER standards apply to General Industry and the Construction Industry and to the 28 states which have OSHA-approved State Plans. Meanwhile, the EPA HAZWOPER standard is aimed at protecting paid and voluntary employees working for the local and state governments in states that do not operate an OSHA-approved State Plan (OSHA, n.d.).Scope of the HAZWOPER StandardThe HAZWOPER standard covers five critical, yet distinct operations related to hazardous waste emergencies.The cleanup operations of hazardous substances conducted at uncontrolled hazardous waste sites that are mandated by a governmental body.Corrective actions involving cleanup operations at sites covered by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).Operations involving hazardous waste conducted at treatment, storage, and disposal (TSD) facilities regulated under RCRA.Operations that generate hazardous waste but are not TSD facilities.Emergency response operations due to the release of, or substantial threat of release of hazardous substances, without regard to the location of the hazards. (OSHA, n.d.a)Importance of HAZWOPER TrainingExposure to hazardous materials can cause many harmful health and safety problems. These range from skin irritations to chemical burns and can result in more permanent physical damage to people. Accidental release of hazardous substances in large amounts can cause explosions and fires, pollute the air with toxins, and may cause irreparable damage to the surrounding natural environment (OSHA, n.d.b). A popular example is oil spills that pollute oceans. As such, all employees who work in hazardous waste and emergency response operations must be aware of and able to react to, manage, act, control, and cleanup emergencies related to hazardous substances in the workplace. Moreover, employers must ensure worker safety from uncontrolled spills of chemical or biological toxins and other hazardous materials in the workplace. Employers are also required to facilitate the implementation of the HAZWOPER standard to worksite response and cleanup activities. By promoting continuous and diligent worker training, employers will be able to safeguard from the negative impact of hazardous releases which can cause short- or long-term harm to employees and workplace operations and assets.Hence, workplace safety training such as the HAZWOPER 24-hour initial training is required under the HAZWOPER standard for all employees who may be exposed to hazardous substances in a range of occupations. These occupations may range from bricklayers, electrical engineers to equipment operators, general laborers, and supervisors, or managers. Further, OSHA considers a safety and health training program for workers as a part of the site Health and Safety Plan (HASP). As such, there are 18 HAZWOPER training courses developed for the specifics of different job tasks and occupations for general site workers, workers handling hazardous waste, and for emergency response workers. One of these training programs is the preliminary HAZWOPER 24-hour training for workers before starting their jobs at HAZMAT worksites.A snapshot of the OSHA required HAZWOPER online training courses are given below, but to learn more, read our blog on HAZWOPER Training Level – Know the Basics. Besides, the HAZWOPER training required by OSHA covers many topics, at different intensities depending on employee occupation and tasks. The length of the HAZWOPER training also plays an important role in the breadth and depth of topics covered. While the HAZWOPER 24-hour training would not go into much detail, the HAZWOPER 40-hour training will give the trainee detailed safety and health information. An overview of topics that may be captured within the HAZWOPER 24-hour training program is given below.safety and health hazards present on the site;identification of hazards such as radioactive wastes, toxic chemicals, etc., present on the site;use, handling, wearing, removal, and storage of personal protective equipment such as respirators, face shields, totally encapsulating chemical protective suits, etc.;work practices to minimize risks from hazards;safe use of engineering controls, machinery, and equipment;medical surveillance requirements consisting of symptom recognition and signs indicating overexposure to hazards;proper storage of dangerous goods; andhazard monitoring and monitoring of high-risk employees. (OSHA, n.d.c).Also, read the article on HAZWOPER Training: Important Things You Must Know for additional information.Online HAZWOPER 24-Hour TrainingThe most critical HAZWOPER training courses are the preliminary OSHA HAZWOPER 24-hour and the OSHA HAZWOPER 40-hour training courses. Workers must undergo either of these training requirements before they can enter or begin work on an uncontrolled hazardous waste operation site. The initial HAZWOPER 24-hour training comprises both off-site instruction (online training programs) and field experience under the direct supervision of a trained, experienced supervisor. The HAZWOPER 24-hour is the minimum training requirement for general site workers such as equipment operators, general laborers, excavation specialists, and supervisory personnel engaged in hazardous waste removal or other activities that would expose or potentially expose them to hazardous substances.The main target audience of the HAZWOPER 24-hour training which incorporates both online training and one-day actual field experience, are employees working at contaminated sites but who undertake work tasks that do not expose them to hazardous substances at or above the Permissible Exposure Limits (PELs). Below follows a comprehensive list of employees who require the HAZWOPER 24 Hour training according to OSHA’s HAZWOPER 24 Hour initial training regulation section 1910.120(e)(3).Workers who are at hazardous sites only occasionally for a specific limited task. Limited tasks refer to such tasks as groundwater monitoring, land surveying, or geophysical surveying. As such, these workers are expected to have limited exposure with unlikely exposure to hazardous substances over the permissible exposure limits and published exposure limits.Workers who are regularly on site but work in areas which have been monitored and fully characterized. This means that exposures at these sites are declared to be under permissible exposure limits and published exposure limits. There is no requirement for workers to use respirators, and the characterization indicates that there are no health hazards or the possibility of an emergency developing.On-site managers and supervisors directly responsible for, or who supervise employees mentioned in points one and two above. However, due to their higher-level job responsibilities, managers and supervisors are expected to obtain at least an additional eight hours of specialized training at the time of job assignment on such topics as, but not limited to, the employer's safety and health program and the associated employee training program, personal protective equipment program, spill containment program, and health hazard monitoring procedure and techniques. (OSHA, n.d.c).While worker training is the employer’s responsibility, today, all employers and their employees have easy access to the off-site portion of the OSHA recommended HAZWOPER 24-hour training in the form of online training program providers. These training courses are developed to meet OSHA’s HAZWOPER training requirements. An added benefit of online training is access to certified trainer assistance. Also, each taker of the HAZWOPER 24-hour online training course is provided with an authorized certificate of completion on the successful conclusion of the final exam.In ConclusionThe HAZWOPER 24-hour training is only the beginning of the HAZWOPER training journey. As an employee rises in rank and job responsibility, they would need to extend their HAZWOPER training to more than the HAZWOPER 24-hour course and also enroll in other specialized HAZWOPER training programs. However, those employees who only wish to renew their OSHA HAZWOPER 24 Hour online training course can simply take the OSHA 8 Hour HAZWOPER Refresher online training course to renew their existing HAZWOPER 24-hour training certificate. ReferencesNorth Carolina Department of Labor (NCDOL). (n.d.). Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response. Hazard Overview. Retrieved from https://www.labor.nc.gov/hazardous-waste-operations-and-emergency-response#hazard-overviewOSHA. (n.d.a). Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER). Background. Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/emergency-preparedness/hazardous-waste-operationsOSHA. (n.d.a). Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER). Overview. Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/emergency-preparedness/hazardous-waste-operationsOSHA. (n.d.c). By Standard Number, 1910.120 - Hazardous waste operations and emergency response. Retrieved from https://www.osha.gov/laws-regs/regulations/standardnumber/1910/1910.120United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (2020, February 19,) Hazardous Waste. What is a Hazardous Waste? Retrieved from https://www.epa.gov/hw/learn-basics-hazardous-waste#hwid

HAZMAT and its Importance in Workplace SafetyHAZMAT is a commonly used abbreviation to refer to hazardous materials. Hazardous materials are dangerous goods that are chemical, biological, or radioactive and can cause harm to humans, flora, fauna, and the environment on its own or due to integration with other materials. Today, HAZMAT is widely used in industries and even homes (think pesticides and bleach). Not only does the scale, forms, and quantities of hazardous materials used by industries vary widely but the industries which use HAZMAT are also wide-ranging. Hence, it should not be surprising that in the United States hazardous materials are used in construction and mining operations, and for printing, textile manufacturing, and even dry cleaning.The nature of HAZMAT makes it imperative for workers who work with or handle hazardous materials in the course of their work to comprehensively understand the composition of such hazardous substances, have the knowledge on its safe use, and the knowhow to react and act in instances of hazard-related emergencies in the workplace. As such, these workers are required by law to receive HAZMAT training with the aim of training individuals or teams in the safe use and disposal of hazardous substances and responding to accidents or disasters caused by the unforeseen release, spill, or leak of HAZMAT.Oversight for Hazardous Material HandlingConsidering the breadth and depth of the use of hazardous materials today, many agencies stringently regulate how, why, when, and where of hazardous materials. In the United States, the safe handling of hazardous materials is regulated by four health and safety governing bodies – the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Department of Transportation (DOT), and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). Due to the different focus areas and agendas of each of these agencies, how hazardous materials are described and defined diverges dependent on different standards and regulations being administered. For instance, OSHA’s goal is to reduce workplace injury and increase workplace safety (OSHA, n.d.), the EPA’s mission is focused on protecting human health and the environment (EPA, 2018), and DOT’s mission is “to ensure our Nation has the safest, most efficient and modern transportation system in the world…” (U.S. Department of Transportation, 2020)However, an important point to note is that each agency invariable includes substances, atmospheres, gases, contaminants, and wastes as part of hazardous materials and often may confine definitions to align with the hazardous materials related to the OSHA regulation or DOT standard being addressed. For instance, OSHA has a pre-defined list of hazardous materials table which is often used across standards when referring to HAZMAT. Furthermore, OSHA’s Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) standard utilize a broad definition for hazardous materials which includes substances considered as hazardous by the Comprehensive Environmental Response Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA), and hazardous materials as listed by the U.S. Department of Transportation under 49 CFR 172.101 and appendices.HAZMAT Training and CertificationsDue to the increasing use of hazardous materials and substances in industrial settings, workplaces are inundated with myriad hazards. This has resulted in health and safety agencies such as OSHA, DOT, and the EPA regulating HAZMAT safety by making mandatory employee HAZMAT training which must be provided by their employers. These HAZMAT training courses are invariable diverse and extensive, covering a range of subjects, policies, and procedures. Furthermore, HAZMAT training programs are targeted at different occupations including electricians, technicians, lab technicians, construction workers, emergency personnel, drillers, geologists, builders, bricklayers, environmentalists, scientists, drivers, chemical engineers, plant operators, waste collectors, janitors, and security personnel. Besides, as many of these workers often work with toxic substances and in potentially hazardous environments, HAZMAT training conducted must deliver information on hazardous material identification, handling, storage, transportation, use, and disposal, as well as procedures to follow in case of an emergency arising due to a biohazard caused by misuse, leakage, or accidental release of a hazardous substance.To ensure compliance, and worker safety and health, OSHA, EPA, and DOT require employers to conduct HAZMAT training courses for workers annually and, in many instances, obtain approved HAZMAT training certification of completion for different hazardous substances. As each of these agencies has its own rules and regulations albeit aligned to Federal Regulations, HAZMAT training course requirements also differ due to the varying focus areas of each agency requiring different safety compliances.OSHA’s Emphasis on HAZMAT TrainingOSHA places high importance on understanding the requirements of its Occupational Safety and Health Standards and extends this by requiring employers to not only train workers on handling hazards and hazardous materials while on the job but also by taking annual HAZMAT training certification courses. Besides, OSHA’s HAZMAT training focuses on different training needs fordifferent aspects of hazardous material/dangerous goods handling and disposal,the diverse forms of hazardous materials,different categories and job roles of employees, andworker actions during HAZMAT disasters such as oil spills or emergencies where a toxic substance is accidentally released in a controlled area.OSHA’s Standards cover general hazard and emergency training for workers as well as specific HAZMAT training related to specific hazardous substances and HAZMAT emergencies resulting from working with flammable liquids, asbestos, vinyl chloride, lead, arsenic, chromium, cadmium, benzene, explosive and blasting agents, toxic metals, Tularemia, liquefied petroleum gases, and a plethora of other chemicals and substances identified as hazardous materials.OSHA Guided HAZMAT Training ProgramUnderstanding the daunting task for employers to adequately conduct employee training courses, covering all required topics and subject areas, OSHA has developed detailed plans for HAZMAT training programs for general industry and specific HAZMAT training requirements for workers in construction, excavation, mining, agriculture, maritime and other industries. To further simplify the training process, OSHA has published an overview of the HAZMAT training requirements in its Training Requirements in OSHA Standards publication which acts as a guide for employers to develop HAZMAT training programs. This publication invariable captures the necessary training for workers working with hazardous materials and toxic and hazardous substances under the different Occupational Safety and Health Standards.For example, the publication details the requirement for training workers working with explosive and blasting agents as defined and described under the Occupational Safety and Health General Standard subpart H on Hazardous Materials.OSHA’s Hazard Communication StandardThe Hazard Communication Standard which is aligned with the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS) must be given due prominence when conducting HAZMAT training programs. This Standard is a fount of information on the classification of chemicals and communication of hazard information on labels and safety data sheets. Thus, employers can use this OSHA regulatory standard to develop HAZMAT training lessons and HAZMAT training coursework. Such guided HAZMAT training programs will ensure comprehensive information about hazardous chemicals being shared with trainees. Therefore, workers, supervisors, and managers who participate in a dangerous goods training course will be better equipped to practice safety procedures at worksites. We can, therefore, conclude that such HAZMAT training courses would make safety training more effective and employers compliant with OSHA regulations.Hazardous Waste ManagementAccording to the EPA, hazardous waste is defined as “a waste with properties that make it dangerous or capable of harming human health or the environment” (EPA, 2020). There are many sources through which hazardous waste is generated including construction sites, industrial manufacturing processes, and even the release of household pesticides and plastics into the environment. Just as there are myriad hazardous materials, hazardous waste also takes many forms -- liquids, solids, gases, and sludges. The increasing levels of hazardous waste today make understanding and managing such waste a part of HAZMAT training. This is emphasized by OSHA’s Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) Standard for the construction industry which has identified a range of HAZMAT training requirements for construction workers and construction work. For example, the Standard specifies training should be provided for gases, vapors, fumes, dust, and mists that may be inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin by workers at construction sites. The Standard also specifies upper limits and acceptable limits for hazardous wastes and emphasizes regular medical surveillance for HAZMAT workers. HAZMAT training is also recommended for workers handling emergencies due to the release of hazardous waste. As such, HAZWOPER training is designed for different workers and job tasks at differing levels. The OSHA published Training Requirements in OSHA Standards is a good source for obtaining more information on HAZMAT training for workers.Online HAZMAT TrainingMaking HAZWOPER and HAZMAT training even simpler are online safety and compliance training providers like us, providing employers and workers ready-to-use interactive online HAZMAT training programs that are geared to meet OSHA and DOT HAZMAT certification requirements.Taking its cue from OSHA’s focus on worker health and safety, and the resultant mandatory and recommended training requirements for workers, supervisors, and managers; these HAZMAT training programs diligently cover all required aspects as dictated by OSHA. Thus, today there are many online employee HAZMAT training courses aimed at easing the burden on employers who must provide HAZWOPER and HAZMAT training and education aligned to OSHA regulations, EPA requirements, and DOT rules. To comply with the occupational health and safety standards of these safety agencies, many of these safety training programs have to be completed annually, and a certificate of completion to be obtained and filed. This explains the wide availability of the OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER, OSHA HAZWOPER 24 Hour, and the OSHA 8-Hour HAZWOPER Refresher training courses. There are also online courses dedicated to HAZMAT supervisor training such as the HAZWOPER 8 Hour Supervisor Training. Aligned to OSHA’s requirements for employers to train workers in specialist hazard materials, there are also online courses on OSHA Asbestos Awareness Training and OSHA Bloodborne Pathogens Training.Significance of Employee HAZMAT TrainingEmployee HAZMAT training is much more than being ‘compliant’ with OSHA standards and regulations. When employers train employees working with hazardous and toxic materials there is a continuously increasing focus on the importance of worker health and safety while at work. HAZMAT training will result in many advantages for the employer including increasing employee motivation and feeling of security, enhancing organizational reputation, reducing the possibility of lawsuits on workplace/employer neglect, and curtailing HAZMAT accident compensation costs. While HAZMAT training is expensive to design, develop, and implement, these advantages will result in long-term sustainable benefits for employers and should be considered as a ‘good investment’ by organizational decision-makers. ReferencesEPA (2020, February 19). Hazardous Waste. Retrieved on July 18, 2020 from https://www.epa.gov/hw/learn-basics-hazardous-waste#hwidEPA (2018, February 7). Our Mission and What We Do. Retrieved on July 18, 2020 from https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/our-mission-and-what-we-doOSHA, (n.d.). About OSHA. Retrieved on July 18, 2020 from https://www.osha.gov/aboutoshaU.S. Department of Transportation, (2020, January 29). About DOT. Retrieved on July 18, 2020 from https://www.transportation.gov/about

Plan, Prevent, and Protect Does the title sound familiar? It should, as Plan, Prevent, and Protect is OSHA’s motto introduced in 2010 when OSHA marked 40 years of increased health and safety for the American worker.  According to Dr. David Michaels, the OSHA chief at that time, the motto was aligned to OSHA’s new agenda to encourage employers to identify the possible hazards their employees could face and plan for preventing them, reducing their probability of materializing, and in case of a hazard occurring, having a comprehensive plan for protecting employees (Kilbourne, 2010). This was a breakthrough change that OSHA implemented in how employers viewed occupational health and safety measures and actions for which they were responsible. Traditionally, employers would wait for an OSHA inspection before enacting any hazard preventive measures for the future. However, by this move, OSHA firmly announced each organization to plan for hazards, while searching for effective preventive measures, and in instances when hazards cannot be prevented (think COVID-19 pandemic here) have in place comprehensive protection plans for employee health and safety. A little bit about OSHA Over the years, OSHA has continued to enforce new standards and revised existing standards to offer more stringent regulations to remain relevant in today’s increasingly complex work environments. As such, today, OSHA has a myriad of standards enforced to protect the health and safety of employees in most Construction, General Industry, Maritime and Agriculture industries across the 50 States, the District of Columbia, and other US jurisdictions either directly through Federal OSHA or an OSHA-approved state program (OSHA 3302-08R, 2018). OSHA also protects state and local government workers through the OSH Act if they work in the 22 states that have an OSHA-approved state program (OSHA 3302-08R, 2018). An important aspect of OSHA’s standards is that it covers all employers whom must implement OSHA’s mission to “ensure safe and healthful working conditions for working men and women by setting and enforcing standards and by providing training, outreach, education and assistance” (Occupational Safety and Health Administration [OSHA], n.d.a; OSHA’s Mission, n.d.). Besides, OSHA also regularly publishes guidelines and recommendations aligned to the latest hazard risks that employers and employees must face. For instance, in 2006 they published a guidance update on protecting employees from the Avian Flu, then in 2014 there was a publication on Small Entity Compliance Guide for the Final Rule for Cranes and Derricks in Construction, and the latest is the publication on Guidance on Returning to Work published in June 2020 (OSHA, n.d.b). These publications are available in several languages with many standards and guidelines being published mainly in English and Spanish. OSHA at half a century So, how has OSHA fared over its 50 years of improving the work safety of employees? As expected, there have been many ups and downs. We hear of several breaks in policies and protocols, but OSHA has also made a marked difference. For five decades, OSHA has continued to partner with and involve employers, employees, health and safety professionals, and other interested stakeholders in advocating, implementing, and demanding increasing workplace safety for the more than 130 million American workers. Statistics show OSHA’s efforts to regulate workplace hazard prevention, train employers and employees, and increase inspection standards and penalties, together with updating and revising standards and guidelines have reduced fatalities from 38 workers a day in the 1970s to 14 workers a day in 2017 (OSHA, n.d.c). OSHA also states that worker injuries and illnesses have drastically reduced to 2.8 per 100 in 2017 compared to 10.9 incidents per 100 workers in 1972 (OSHA, n.d.c). Furthermore,  in the last decade alone, OSHA has helped protect workers involved in the Deepwater Horizon explosion and oil spill; published standards for silica dust, cranes, confined spaces, and the classification and labeling of work-related chemicals; and focused on communicating the importance of safety measures for the construction industry which faced high degrees of worker fatalities (OSHA, n.d.d). OSHA also enacted a requirement to report all severe work-related injuries in January 2015 (OSHA, n.d.e). This is not to say that we’ve not heard about the negatives. So, while you may recall that reported worker injuries increased in 2018 compared to 2017, while workers injuries reported in 2017 increased by 2 percent compared to 2016, remember that this is likely an impact of more employers complying with OSHA standards year-on-year. Still, the statement by OSHA on occupational fatalities in 2018 is encouraging as it identified a decline in work-related fatal falls from heights by 14 percent, the lowest recorded in six years (OSHA Trade Release, 2019). Similarly, there is an abundance of statistics, data, and other information that can be cited to show the changes in occupational injuries and fatalities, if time permitted. But alas that is not the case. So, yes, like any other regulation, OSHA does have its positives and negatives, but overall, OSHA has had a positive impact on employers and employees, bringing to the forefront the importance of worker safety and its high impact on organizational reputation and employee engagement as everyone pursues the goal of commerce.   References Kilbourne, C. (2010, September 10). "Plan, Prevent, Protect"—OSHA’s New Agenda. EHS Daily Advisor. Retrieved from https://ehsdailyadvisor.blr.com/2010/09/quot-plan-prevent-protect-quot-osha-s-new-agenda/ OSHA 3302-08R. (2018). All About OSHA. Occupational Safety and Health Administration Website. Retrieved on June 26, 2020 from https://media.hazwoper-osha.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/all_about_OSHA.pdf Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). (n.d.a). Occupational Safety and Health Administration Website, About Us, OSHA Mission. Retrieved on June 26, 2020 from https://www.osha.gov/aboutosha OSHA. (n.d.b). Occupational Safety and Health Administration Website, Publications. Retrieved on June 26, 2020 from https://www.osha.gov/publications OSHA. (n.d.c). Occupational Safety and Health Administration Website, Commonly Used Statistics. Retrieved on June 26, 2020 from https://www.osha.gov/data/commonstats OSHA. (n.d.d). Occupational Safety and Health Administration Website, OSHA at 50. Retrieved on June 26, 2020 from https://www.osha.gov/osha50/ OSHA. (n.d.e). Occupational Safety and Health Administration Website. Retrieved on June 26, 2020 from https://www.osha.gov/severeinjury/ OSHA Trade Release. (2019, December 17). Occupational Safety and Health Administration Website, News Releases. Retrieved on June 26, 2020 from https://www.osha.gov/news/newsreleases/trade/12172019-0

What is CBRNE?CBRNE stands for chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive. It refers to the type of hazardous materials or devices that may be used in a terrorist attack or other emergency situation. CBRNE incidents pose significant risks to public health and safety, and emergency responders and other personnel need to be properly trained and equipped to handle these types of situations.CBRNE incidents can involve the release of hazardous chemicals, biological agents, radioactive materials, nuclear devices, or explosive devices. These materials and devices can cause serious injuries or fatalities and can also cause significant damage to infrastructure and the environment. Emergency responders and other personnel who may be called upon to respond to CBRNE incidents need to be trained in the proper procedures for handling and mitigating these types of incidents. This may include training in the use of specialized equipment and protective gear, as well as in decontamination procedures and other emergency response protocols.The military may use the term CBRNE when referring to specialist teams or individuals who are responsible for protecting the American nation from chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, and explosive threats. On the other hand, the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) focuses on CBRNE in terms of workers being prepared to handle CBRNE materials while performing their job duties, as well as protective measures to be used by employees in instances of CBRNE-related emergencies.It is important to note that OSHA may often refer to CBRNE materials as hazardous substances. The guidance offered by the agency on these hazardous substances is not only extensive, but is also segregated by requirements for different individuals, occupations, and CBRNE events. For instance, OSHA has issued detailed guidelines for the selection of appropriate respiratory protection based on the role of each individual in an emergency response operation.Training Aids CBRNE DangersIn today's highly unpredictable world, with the increasing level of CBRNE threats, employers must train their employees to understand what these hazards are, and how to protect themselves and society from their negative impact. With the number of CBRNE-related disasters seen over the last decade or so, it is not surprising that OSHA continues to emphasize the importance of training and education not only for workers who handle CBRNE materials but also for disaster site workers and first responders.OSHA’s Response to Increasing CBRNE UseThe increasing use of CBRNE materials in industries has resulted in the frequent accidental releases of these hazardous substances into the environment, leading to a varying degree of threat for the employees, as well as the surrounding communities. Consider the more than 2 million cases of asbestos releases recorded in 2018, for 1,212 TRI facilities in the state of California, alone (United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), n.d.). The mineral asbestos is a known carcinogen, therefore, the release of asbestos fibers onto land, and into the air and water, is much cause for concern. OSHA has addressed worker exposure to asbestos-containing materials (ACM) in specific standards for the General Industry and Construction Industry. Sign up for our online OSHA Asbestos Awareness Training course to learn more.Furthermore, workers on construction sites are often exposed to varying degrees of CBRNE materials. Even office buildings may become contaminated with these hazardous substances in case of an accidental release. Working with, handling, or being exposed to CBRNE materials requires employers to ensure the health and safety of workers. OSHA's Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response Standard (HAZWOPER) Standard provides in-depth guidance on handling and cleaning up hazardous substances that fall under CBRNE, corrective actions to be used, and the precautionary measures to be implemented for the health and safety of workers.The HAZWOPER standard also sets forth comprehensive training requirements for workers engaged in work operations at hazardous waste sites. As per OSHA requirements, workers who are engaged in hazardous substance clean-up or other activities which expose, or could potentially expose them to safety or health hazards must be adequately trained before they are allowed to enter such worksites. Keeping these topic requirements in mind, we, at HAZWOPER-OSHA Training, have designed the OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER, OSHA 24-Hour HAZWOPER, and OSHA 8-Hour HAZWOPER Refresher online training courses accordingly, at the end of which a safety certification may be obtained.A Final NoteAs we continue to ponder the dangers of working with, and being exposed to CBRNE materials, employers must ensure their employees are trained to handle such hazards while at work. Consider, that many of these training requirements are mandated by OSHA, and if not, then training employees and empowering them with knowledge is the first step in ensuring their health and safety. References:United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). (n.d). Toxics Release Inventory. Retrieved on June 23, 2020. Website. https://www.epa.gov/toxics-release-inventory-tri-program