CAL/OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER Training
This comprehensive 40-hour course ensures compliance with CAL/OSHA and Federal OSHA HAZWOPER standards, preparing workers to safely manage hazardous waste and emergency response operations in the State of California.
Course Overview
The CAL/OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER Training fully complies with CAL/OSHA regulatory requirements and covers OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120(e), 29 CFR 1926.65(e), and Title 8, Section 5192 Paragraphs (a)–(q). This training provides workers with the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, manage, and mitigate risks associated with hazardous substances during cleanup or emergency response operations.
The course incorporates California-specific safety policies and practices that help reduce the risk of injury or illness caused by exposure to hazardous materials in the workplace.
Who Needs CAL/OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER Training?
This training is required for individuals new to uncontrolled hazardous waste or emergency response operations, including:
- Equipment operators
- General laborers
- Other general site workers
- On-site management and supervisory personnel
According to both State and Federal OSHA regulations, these workers must complete a minimum of 40 hours of HAZWOPER training to perform their duties safely and in compliance with legal requirements.
Work Covered by HAZWOPER Standards
The CAL/OSHA HAZWOPER standard applies to employers and employees involved in the following categories of work operations:
- Cleanup activities at hazardous waste sites
- Operations at treatment, storage, and disposal (TSD) facilities handling hazardous waste
- Emergency response operations involving the release of hazardous substances
Training Modules
The CAL/OSHA 40-Hour HAZWOPER course covers a comprehensive range of safety and health topics relevant to hazardous waste operations, including:
- OSHA Regulatory Standards
- Planning and Organization
- Site Characterization
- Medical Surveillance
- Toxicology
- Hazard Classification
- Chemical Hazards
- Radiological Hazards
- Respiratory Protection
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Decontamination
- Air Monitoring
- Compressed Gases
- Material Sampling and Analysis
- Handling Drums
- Confined Spaces
- Excavations
- Emergency Response Procedures
Note: This course fulfills the educational component of HAZWOPER training. However, participants must also complete three days of in-person, hands-on field training under the supervision of a qualified instructor. Employers are responsible for ensuring workers receive practical PPE training and site-specific safety instruction.