HAZWOPER 40 hour certification is a training course designation that originates from Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Part 1910.120 (e). It is sometimes referred to as
40 hour HAZWOPER as well. The training is for individuals who plan on working with or handling hazardous substances at contaminated sites. It is a training requirement set forth by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). The training is usually conducted offsite and is to cover the following topics.
1. Names of personnel and alternates responsible for site safety and health.
2. Safety, health and other hazards present on the site.
3. Use of personal protective equipment.
4. Work practices by which the employee can minimize risks from hazards.
5. Safe use of engineering controls and equipment on the site.
6. Medical surveillance requirements.
7. Health and Safety Plan
8. Levels of Protection
9. Decontamination
10. Toxicology
11. Fire Prevention
12. Hazardous Materials
13. Site Emergencies
14. Drums and Containers
15. Fall Hazards
16. Electrocution
17. Hazardous Communication
18. Air Monitoring
19. Confined Spaces
There is also a hands-on training component to the training. Employees must be trained on the actual Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) they will be using for their job. Employees must also complete 3 days of field experience supervised by a qualified supervisor. Individuals seeking this certification must also pass a physical exam which includes a pulmonary function test of the lungs.
