As online courses have become more common there has been a concern about whether web-based HAZWOPER training provides adequate instruction in the use of PPE. Are your workers getting the instruction they need from online courses?
HAZWOPER Appendix E
Most of the discussion revolves around information contained in Appendix E (Non-Mandatory Guidelines) of the HAZWOPER regulations. The instructions in Appendix E reflect optional but important additions to HAZWOPER training that organizations should consider.
Appendix E strongly recommends workers receive hands-on training with the PPE they will use in the field. The information received in a 40-hr HAZWOPER course is important but in an emergency you want your workers to be competent with the equipment, not fumbling with unfamiliar tools.
"In Person" Doesn't Mean "Hands On"
The argument against online HAZWOPER training is that students don't get hands-on experience with PPE. Since hands-on training is non-mandatory, some companies don't supplement the online course with appropriate PPE training.
However that argument isn't valid because in-person training seldom provides proper PPE instruction either. OSHA has stated that PPE instruction should involve the specific model of PPE used on the job. In a class with students from a dozen different employers, what is the chance the instructor will have the exact PPE your worker uses on the job?
Even before online HAZWOPER training existed, prudent employers have provided PPE instruction on the job site after the HAZWOPER course. Their employees become familiar with the actual equipment they will use on the job and that saves time in an emergency.
Other Factors to Consider In HAZWOPER Trainers
Online HAZWOPER training provides the same level of instruction as in-person courses for a fraction of the cost. Both types of courses require supplementary PPE training on the job site. There are far more important things employers should consider in a training provider.
There is no standard for HAZWOPER training. In the event HAZWOPER certification is found to be inadequate, it is the employer not the trainer who gets in trouble. Because of these factors, it is critical to examine a potential HAZWOPER course carefully to ensure that it provides the training your workers need.
Look at the company's track record. How long have they been providing OSHA training? What are the qualifications of their instructors? Companies that specialize in environmental training are likely to provide better quality courses than ones who provide environmental courses in a catalog with dozens of other offerings from word processing skills to appreciating diversity.
A comprehensive and well-structured online course supplemented with an employer's own on-site PPE training is the best way to provide the information you need to meet OSHA regulations and intent, as well as to provide the safest environment for your workers.
Author is a freelance copywriter. For more information on hazwoper training, visit http://www.natlenvtrainers.com/
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