Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Biological Hazards • RSI • Job Demand Analysis

HAZWOPER

Term from Occupational Health industry explained for recruiters

HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response) is a set of guidelines and training requirements that prepares workers to handle dangerous materials and emergency situations safely. It's required by OSHA for anyone who works with hazardous materials or responds to chemical emergencies. Think of it as a safety certification that shows someone knows how to work safely around dangerous substances. When you see this on a resume, it means the person has completed special safety training that typically takes 24 or 40 hours, depending on their job role. This certification is especially important in industries like manufacturing, construction, environmental cleanup, and emergency response.

Examples in Resumes

Maintained current HAZWOPER 40-hour certification while supervising hazardous material cleanup operations

Completed HAZWOPER 24-hour training and led safety briefings for new team members

Conducted emergency response drills in accordance with HAZWOPER standards and protocols

Typical job title: "HAZWOPER Certified Professionals"

Also try searching for:

Environmental Health and Safety Specialist Hazardous Materials Technician Safety Compliance Officer Emergency Response Technician Environmental Remediation Specialist Industrial Hygienist Safety Manager

Where to Find HAZWOPER Certified Professionals

Professional Organizations

Job Boards

Online Resources

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop and implement a site safety plan for a hazardous waste operation?

Expected Answer: A senior professional should explain the process of assessing site hazards, creating emergency response procedures, establishing decontamination zones, and training team members on safety protocols. They should mention coordination with different departments and regulatory compliance.

Q: Describe your experience managing a hazardous materials emergency response team.

Expected Answer: They should discuss team leadership, training programs, emergency drills, equipment maintenance, and coordination with local emergency services. Should emphasize communication and quick decision-making skills.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What personal protective equipment (PPE) would you require for a chemical spill cleanup?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain different levels of PPE (A, B, C, D), when to use each, and how to ensure proper fit and function. Should mention the importance of selecting appropriate protection based on the specific hazard.

Q: How do you conduct a site safety brief before beginning hazardous waste operations?

Expected Answer: Should describe the key components of a safety brief including hazard communication, PPE requirements, emergency procedures, and decontamination steps. Should emphasize the importance of ensuring all workers understand the information.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the different levels of HAZWOPER training and when are they required?

Expected Answer: Should know the difference between 40-hour, 24-hour, and 8-hour refresher training requirements and explain which jobs require each level of certification.

Q: What does the emergency response guidebook (ERG) tell you and how do you use it?

Expected Answer: Should explain that the ERG helps identify hazardous materials and provides initial response guidance. Should be able to describe how to look up materials and understand the basic color-coding system.