Individuals who work in the removal, disposal, transportation, or storage of various types of hazardous waste require quality hazardous materials training. Professionals must be aware of the risks to the environment, handling strategies, and personal and public safety precautions when dealing with hazardous materials. Local and federal laws require that most people who work with hazardous materials receive detailed, formal hazardous materials training. Although certain types of hazardous materials training can be obtained through accredited classroom and online programs, new employees are usually given training as part of a larger training regimen. A person may take training courses in asbestos and lead abatement, radiation and nuclear waste management, or emergency response procedures, depending on the specific job requirements.
Hazardous materials training, which is usually provided employers, is required law in most areas for anyone who removes lead, asbestos, or mold from construction sites or condemned buildings. Individuals usually take at least 40 hours of classes on how to handle, remove, and dispose of these substances properly. They are taught about protective gear such as masks, gloves, and specially designed suits. Most employers are required law to administer exams to workers after they complete training courses to ensure that they fully comprehend the details of asbestos, lead, and mold removal.
Nuclear power plants and waste isolation and disposal plants require highly specialized training. Officials from the federal government are frequently assigned to lead training sessions, where they provide workers with information and resources on waste management, transportation, and emergency evacuation procedures. Training can range from 40 hours to several weeks of full-time instruction, depending on the nature of the job and federal laws. Nuclear waste handlers are usually trained organizations such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OHSA) in the United States.
Hazardous materials training is frequently required of emergency responders, such as firefighters, police officers, and disaster relief workers. Throughout their careers, they typically receive at least 40 hours of on-the-job training and frequent refresher courses. Firefighters and other emergency responders must learn how to enter dangerous situations safely and protect people during rescue operations.
Outside of work settings, some people can obtain hazardous materials training and certification from private or government-sponsored organizations. Accredited institutions can deliver classroom or online instruction that is comparable to that provided employer-mandated training programs. Completing a training program approved OSHA, the EPA, the Department of Transportation, or other national agencies can greatly increase an individual’s chances of landing a job.