HAZWOPER and PPE

The only thing that stands between a worker and serious injury or death is their PPE (Personal Protective Equipment). This may come in the form of hardhats, safety glasses, respirators, gloves or safety suits, but having PPE readily available in the workplace along with the knowledge of donning, using and doffing it by employees in conjunction with a comprehensive safety program provided by the employers are critical components that are required in any HAZWOPER training program set forth by mandatory OSHA regulations. OSHA Institute of America provides PPE training courses and other HAZWOPER online training courses.

Three Steps To Meeting HAZWOPER Training Guidelines

The first step in meeting HAZWOPER guidelines is choosing the proper PPE for the worker based on the substance(s) and environment in which they work. PPE must be durable, capable of being disinfected and marked only by the manufacturer.

While OSHA’s requirements for PPE on specific jobsites are minimal, they must be met to ensure the health and safety of the worker(s). OSHA’s guidelines are laid out in the HAZWOPER training courses. Equipment that has not been designed for the specific job should not be used, especially if it does not meet OSHA standards.

The PPE issued out should meet or exceed the safety needs of the workers. It is not an appropriate response to issue dust masks to workers who require respirators. If respirators are required, then respirators should be used; not an alternative. PPE should be issued with the worst case scenario in mind. It is not about what will happen; it is about what could happen. Do not take the chance; it is not worth it.

The next step in meeting HAZWOPER guidelines is offering workers the proper training. Workers must be properly trained with various forms of PPE. While HAZWOPER training courses offer a very detailed analysis of how to properly use PPE as part of its curriculum, it does not equal the experience a worker gains from working with the PPE hands-on on a jobsite.

Regardless of what some employers might think, it is imperative that all workers receive hands-on training when it comes to PPE because OSHA guidelines stipulate that all workers must be trained with the equipment they will be using on the jobsite (site-specific), not just equipment discussed in the training course.



Training drills using site-specific equipment ensures that workers know how to don (put on) and doff (take off) the equipment as well as verifying correct fit, complete coverage, intact seals, proper gauge readings, etc. PPE training should also include proper maintenance, regular inspection and replacement of old or faulty parts in accordance with HAZWOPER guidelines.



The last step is offering the right program to workers or potential workers. The 40-hour and 24-hour HAZWOPER courses along with the 8-hour annual refresher incorporate a safety plan that includes many areas. PPE is just one facet of a comprehensive design offered to keep workers healthy and safe. While PPE is mandatory to keep workers healthy and safe, it should be the last line of defense. It is more beneficial for everyone to perform preventative measures than take corrective measures.

Decrease Accidents With HAZWOPER and PPE Training

Companies that offer extensive safety training including HAZWOPER and PPE programs have fewer work-related accidents every year. What this translates to is better worker morale which leads to better productivity and increased profits. Remember… safety comes first. OSHA Institute of America provides effective, OSHA approved safety training for you and your team to keep your morale high and your accidents low.