Identify covered cleanup operations
Learning objective: Document the operation and applicable standard before selecting training.
HAZWOPER means Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response. Site-cleanup coverage includes government-required cleanup at uncontrolled hazardous waste sites, RCRA corrective-action cleanup, and voluntary cleanup at sites recognized by a governmental body as uncontrolled hazardous waste sites. Initial investigations of government-identified sites can be covered before contamination is confirmed.
The standard applies unless the employer can demonstrate no employee exposure or reasonable possibility of exposure to safety or health hazards within its scope. A small job, private property or voluntary project is not automatically excluded. Ordinary housekeeping with hazardous chemicals is not automatically a HAZWOPER cleanup either; evaluate the actual operation.
General-industry cleanup uses 1910.120 and construction uses 1926.65. Covered cleanup follows paragraphs (b) through (o). TSD facility operations under paragraph (p) and emergency response under paragraph (q) are distinct pathways. Other OSHA standards still apply, with the more protective provision controlling overlaps as specified.
This course explains requirements; it is not a 40-hour, 24-hour or eight-hour refresher course and does not qualify anyone to enter a hazardous waste site. Determine coverage, role and required training before assignment.
Source context: 1910.120(a); 1926.65(a)