HAZWOPER Hazmat - Technician/Specialist/Incident Command   (40 hours)

Course Description


 When workers are involved in the cleanup, treatment, storage, or disposal of hazardous substances, defined by 40 CFR 261.3 and 49 CFR 171.8, strict adherence to OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.120 standards for hazardous waste operations and emergency response (HAZWOPER) is essential. Failure to comprehend and comply with these standards can lead to severe risks, including chemical burns, skin and eye irritation, and even fatalities. The HAZWOPER 40-Hour Course is designed to assist workers, managers, and supervisors in achieving initial compliance, ensuring a safe workplace and minimizing health risks for employees.

Note: Students are required to obtain additional site-specific training and complete three days of actual field experience under the direct supervision of a trained, experienced supervisor.

Additionally, on-site supervisors and managers can utilize this training to fulfill the 40-hour component of their training requirements.


Throughout this course, students will delve into OSHA's HAZWOPER standard outlined in 29 CFR 1910.120. Key topics covered include:

  1. A comprehensive review of OSHA and the HAZWOPER standard, including crucial definitions and the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS).
  2. Recognition and control of hazards.
  3. Definition of hazardous waste per EPA 40 CFR 261.3 and hazardous materials per DOT 49 CFR 171.
  4. Site-specific health and safety plans, medical surveillance programs, and other regulatory-required programs.
  5. Safety best practices for working in confined spaces and around mobile equipment.
  6. Identification, evaluation, and control of on-site hazards, encompassing health, physical safety, biological, and ergonomic hazards in the work environment.
  7. An overview of common respiratory hazards, types, and appropriate protection protocols.
  8. Emergency response to on-site emergencies and the release of hazardous substances.
  9. Requirements for HAZWOPER training to achieve compliance with standards 29 CFR 1910.120(e)(3)(i) for general site workers and 1910.120(e)(4) for on-site managers and supervisors.
  10. Site characterization.
  11. The Hazard Communication Standard (HCS).
  12. Appropriate techniques for material handling.

Completing this course equips participants with the knowledge and skills necessary for compliance with HAZWOPER standards, fostering a safe working environment and minimizing health risks.



Who should take this course?



The 40-Hour HAZWOPER online course is suitable for individuals actively engaged in hazardous waste operations. This includes:

  • General site workers involved in the removal of toxic and flammable substances.