Steps for Acquiring HAZWOPER Certification

1. Steps for Acquiring HAZWOPER
Certification
By: Alan Stinson Redwood City CA

2. Steps for Acquiring HAZWOPER Certification
A resident of Redwood City, CA, Alan Stinson is a past trainee in the JobTrain Construction
Fundamentals Pre-Apprentice Training Program. As a result of his training, Alan Stinson
possesses the ability to operate and maintain equipment safely—and to make arrangements for
any repairs needed. Alan Stinson also holds HAZWOPER training and certification.

3. Steps for Acquiring HAZWOPER Certification
The US Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), through the 29 Code of Federal
Regulation (CFR) 1910.120, has enumerated the three different levels of HAZWOPER areas or
sites. These are contaminated sites; emergency response sites; and hazardous waste treatment,
storage, and disposal facilities. All workers at these types of sites are required to hold HAZWOPER
certification. Requirements for the certification are as follows:

4. Steps for Acquiring HAZWOPER Certification
1. Completion of a standard baseline medical physical examination (which includes a pulmonary
function test) is mandatory. The physical exam measures the capacity of the applicant’s lungs,
since workers are required to wear a respirator when carrying out their duties.

5. Steps for Acquiring HAZWOPER Certification
2. Completion of a HAZWOPER training course. Training courses for offensive first responders are
categorized under the General Site Workers, Emergency Response, and Resource Conservation
and Recovery Act.

6. Steps for Acquiring HAZWOPER Certification
3. Completion of a mandatory respirator fit test. This involves qualitative and quantitative fit tests,
and positive and negative pressure fitting.

7. Steps for Acquiring HAZWOPER Certification
4. Completion of on-the-job training under the supervision of qualified instructors.

8. Steps for Acquiring HAZWOPER Certification
Each year, HAZWOPER-certified workers must re-certify and pass a competency test to ensure
that they maintain their qualifications at all times. The OSHA holds employers responsible for
providing adequate training to employees.