Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 002D Hazard:

29 CFR 1910.120(q)(6)(iii): Hazardous materials technician. Hazardous materials technicians are individuals who respond to releases or potential releases for the purpose of stopping the release. They assume a more aggressive role than a first responder at the operations level in that they will approach the point of release in order to plug, patch or otherwise stop the release of a hazardous substance. Hazardous materials technicians shall have received at least 24 hours of training equal to the first responder operations level and in addition have competency in the following areas and the employer shall so certify: (A) Know how to implement the local emergency response plan. (B) Understand classification, identification and verification of known and unknown materials by using advanced survey instruments and equipment. (C) Know of the state emergency response plan. (D) Be able to select and use proper specialized chemical personal protective equipment provided to the hazardous materials specialist. (E) Understand in-depth hazard and risk techniques. (F) Be able to perform specialized control, containment, and/or confinement operations within the capabilities of the resources and personal protective equipment available. (G) Be able to determine and implement decontamination procedures. (H) Have the ability to develop a site safety and control plan. (I) Understand chemical, radiological and toxicological terminology and behavior. a) On or about March 23, 2023, the employer failed to ensure that the Sanitation Workers, who acted as Hazardous Materials Technicians to respond to a release of Clorox Bleach (4.5% sodium hypochlorite) and The Works Toilet Bowl Cleaner (5-10% hydrochloric acid), at the Depallitizer #1 had received the necessary training required by sections A through I. As a result, the Sanitation Workers were exposed to toxic and corrosive inhalation hazards during their efforts to decontaminate the area.