Hazardous waste and materials can be found on quite a number of types of job sites. In fact, they’re usually a part of many work situations, as well. Which is why the OSHA has made it a point to require employees working with such conditions to know how to recognize risks, as well as learn how to handle and dispose of them correctly. This is where the HAZWOPER training comes in.
The HAZWOPER training is specifically designed to properly equip employees with the knowledge and skills necessary to keep themselves and other workers safe on site. And as required by the HAZWOPER standard, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be carefully selected in order to protect employees from specific hazards that they might be encountering during on-site work.
There are four levels of PPE required for different types of site conditions.
LEVEL A
Protection for this level should be worn when the highest level of protection for the eyes, skin, and respiratory system is needed, such as when dealing with highly toxic releases like ammonia.
It includes the following:
1. Chemical-protective suit that totally encapsulates
2. Positive pressure full face-piece SCA, or NIOSH-approved positive pressure supplied air respirator with escape SCBA
3. Coveralls and long underwear
4. Chemical-resistant outer and inner gloves
5. Boots that are chemical-resistant, steel toe, and shank
6. Hard hat worn under the chemical protective suit
7. Disposable protective suit, boots, and gloves that are worn over the totally-encapsulating suit
LEVEL B
These should be worn when the highest level of respiratory protection is necessary, but skin protection is needed only to a lesser degree such as when dealing with splash hazards like acids, and includes the following protection:
1. Chemical-resistant clothing that is hooded
2. Positive pressure full face-piece SCA, or NIOSH-approved positive pressure supplied air respirator with escape SCBA
3. Coveralls
4. Chemical-resistant outer and inner gloves
5. Boots that are chemical-resistant, steel toe, and shank
6. Disposable chemical-resistant outer boot covers
7. Hard hat
8. Face shield
LEVEL C
Protection for this level should be worn when the criteria for air purifying respirator usage are met, and the types and concentration of airborne substances is known. Level C protection includes the use of the following equipment as appropriate:
1. NIOSH-approved air purifying respirators, half- or full-face mask
2. Chemical-resistant clothing that’s hooded
3. Coveralls.
4. Chemical-resistant outer and inner gloves
5. Boots that are chemical-resistant, steel toe, and shank
6. Disposable chemical-resistant outer boot covers
7. Escape mask
8. Hard hat
9. Face shield
LEVEL D
These do not provide any protection against chemical hazards, and should only be worn as a work uniform or for nuisance contamination. Level D equipment include the following, and are used when appropriate:
1. Coveralls
2. Gloves
3. Safety glasses or chemical splash goggles
4. Hard hat
5. Boots that are chemical-resistant, steel toe, and shank
6. Disposable chemical-resistant outer boot covers
7. Escape mask
8. Face shield
Completing HAZWOPER training with an OSHA-approved program gives more knowledge on the appropriate PPE to use during specific on-site situations.