Upon first hearing the name, one might think that Hazwoper was the name of some kind of industrial machinery. However, HAZWOPER is actually an acronym that stands for Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response. This is a set of guidelines set forth by the OSHA. HAZWOPER regulations instruct workers on remaining safe while working with hazardous materials.

Hazardous waste materials can be potentially harmful to workers or to the environment. That is why proper training is vital to ensuring the health and safety of workers in the oil industry. The process of refining oil can often result in the presence of hazardous waste. Oil industry employees benefit greatly from thorough HAZWOPER training.

Why is HAZWOPER training important to oil industry employees?

The hazardous waste produced by the oil industry can pose a danger to worker safety. In addition, oil industry employees can face many other hazards on the job. Thankfully, HAZWOPER training covers much more than just hazardous waste safety.

Here are 5 ways that HAZWOPERtraining can keep oil industry workers safe:

1. Identification of hazards — The most dangerous workplace hazards are ones that have not been identified. HAZWOPER training ensures that workers can identify hazardous materials. They should also be aware of the potential injury or illness risks that come with handling them.

2. Understanding regulations — A thorough HAZWOPER training program should instruct workers on the regulations regarding hazardous materials. This includes OSHA guidelines as well as any other federal or local regulations.

3. Protective equipment use — Workers should be able to identify and properly use all forms of personal protective equipment at their work site. 

4. Confined space training — Oil industry workers may often have to work within confined spaces. Some of these confined spaces may have hazardous materials present, or other risks to human safety. Confined space training will help employees to avoid injury while working within these spaces.

5. Spill containment — In the event of a leak or spill, workers should be able to contain and control spills until decontamination can occur. They should also be trained to prevent spills before they occur.

How can I ensure that my employees are properly
trained in HAZWOPER procedures?

Basin Safety’s numerous workplace health and safety programs include all the training that oil industry workers need to stay compliant with HAZWOPER standards. We offer dozens of on-site training programs, including:

• Waste hauler training.

• Personal protective equipment.

• Hazcom/GSE training.

• Oilfield safety.

• Confined space training.

All our training programs are compliant with all OSHA and local regulations. Our team works on-site to build relationships and prepare your team for work site hazards. Our skilled personnel are also available for field services, consulting services and safety equipment needs. Contact Basin Safety today for more information on how we can be your trusted name in workplace health and safety.