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How Long Does 40-Hour HAZWOPER Certification Last?

Health & Safety Training


 

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“HAZWOPER” stands for Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response. HAZWOPER is a term that has been in use since 1989, but what does it really mean? HAZWOPER certification means all employees, supervisors, and management personnel responsible for the site must receive training meeting the requirements of 29 CFR 1910.120 before they are permitted to engage in hazardous waste operations that could expose them to safety or health hazards. It’s important to understand how to obtain your 40-Hour HAZWOPER certification, along with how to maintain your certification over time.

 


 

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So, how long does a HAZWOPER certification last?

40-Hour HAZWOPER certification lasts for 12 months, or one year. You must take a refresher course each year in order to maintain your certification. The initial HAZWOPER training is a 40 hour course that covers chemical and physical hazard recognition, hazard controls, PPE equipment, air monitoring, respiratory protection, site control, decontamination, and more. Upon the completion of your 40-Hour HAZWOPER course, you will receive your certification of completion and are then considered trained to work in compliance with the OSHA Hazardous Waste Operation Standard. From there, each year you must take a refresher courses. Refresher training is usually only eight hours.

 


 

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When it comes to choosing the correct training provider for HAZWOPER training, you have options. Since you’re committing to a 40 hours of training, it’s important that you or your employees get the most out of this experience. There are in-person and remote (live webinar) options. In-person options are ideal because most individuals are visual learners and participants can get hands-on training. Webinars are great for those unable to travel to in-person training. In California, NES has two in-person locations for HAZWOPER training – one in Folsom, and our other in San Leandro. Our classes run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with a daily hour break for lunch and additional small breaks at the instructor’s discretion.

 


 

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Whether in-person or remote, NES has many scheduling and training options to fit an individual or a large team. NES has been a leader in training OSHA standards and other areas throughout California and the US for over 30 years. Our mission is to help businesses protect their employees, assets, and the environment. We do so through efficient and effective ways that comply with laws and regulations. If you would like to learn more about NES or 40-Hour HAZWOPER training in California, explore our options at nesglobal.net.