Some organizations train employees internally, hoping to avoid the expenses of outsourced programs. However HAZWOPER training isn't like learning to use the company's timesheet software or create spreadsheet formulas. Improper training creates an unsafe work environment and exposes companies to federal penalties.

OSHA Regulations For HAZWOPER Training Personnel

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has left the subject of trainer qualifications purposely vague in order to give companies more flexibility in training options. Per the OSHA website, "At this time, OSHA does not have any specific requirements to certify an instructor...Trainers shall be qualified to instruct employees about the subject matter that is being presented in training."

Unfortunately these non-specific regulations allow companies to make poor decisions regarding internal HAZWOPER training. Programs may not actually meet OSHA requirements and organizations may not discover this until they are slapped with penalties. Even worse, internal training might meet the letter of OSHA requirements but not actually be effective at educating workers on proper handling of hazardous materials.

Problems With Internal Training

One of the largest shortcomings of internal HAZWOPER training programs is that the instructors may be experienced with hazardous waste operations but not be skilled educators. Proper teaching is a skill and without education and experience in that skill, the instructor finds it hard to make the information stick in the minds of the students.

Internal programs may be poorly organized. Organizations too often focus on operational subjects without adequately explaining the fundamentals of hazardous waste operations. Without fundamentals, the students have a hard time understanding why they must do things that seem pointless on the surface. It also leaves students with a narrow range of knowledge, unable to apply the principles to new situations that might arise.

Online HAZWOPER Courses Give New Options

Organizations looking to reduce training budgets without compromising educational quality are investigating online classes and finding they provide what they need.

Online HAZWOPER training prepared by instructors who are both skilled educators and experienced HAZWOPER personnel provide a valuable training venue. The courses have been designed and optimized to provide a comprehensive education in HAZWOPER concepts. They both meet federal regulations and promote safe working habits.

Online courses are often more formal than in-house training, prompting students to focus more carefully on the subject matter. And yet they are also flexible, allowing workers to take modules according to their own schedule rather than trying to force a 40 hour HAZWOPER course into an already busy week.

Online courses are more cost effective than traditional classroom offerings or even internal training programs. Not only do they cost less than in-person training but there are no travel costs and less employee down time. They don't tie up an internal trainer so result in less loss production.

OSHA has stated that internet courses are an acceptable venue for HAZWOPER training and they are becoming an increasingly popular route for large and small businesses.