Application of OSHA’s HAZWOPER standard to homeless camp cleanup operations

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

July 30, 2021

Mr. Eric J. Sparks
5800 Foxtail Drive
Reno, NV 89502

Dear Mr. Sparks:

Cleanup of blood from crime or accident scenes and HAZWOPER training requirements

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

September 06, 2019

Mr. Scott W. Vogel
Chief Executive Officer
Emergi-Clean Inc.
41 Murray Street
Rahway, New Jersey 07065

Dear Mr. Vogel:

Training requirements for emergency and post-emergency response to marine-based oil spills.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

April 16, 1993

Duane F. Rands
Safety Engineer
Chevron U.S.A.
Production Company
935 Gravier Street
New Orleans, Louisiana 70112

Dear Mr. Rands:

Training requirements under 1910.120 for General firefighters and police officers

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

February 2, 1990

Mr. Michael H. Fagel
Lieutenant/EMS Coordinator
North Aurora Fire Department
Post Office Box 209
North Aurora, Illinois 60542

Dear Mr. Fagel:

Considerations for "incidental" spills cleaned up by maintenance personnel to satisfy the definition of "emergency response"

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.

July 31, 1990

Mr. Terry A. Noteboom
Environmental Engineer
Rockwell International Avionics Group
400 Collins Road N.E.
Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52498

Dear Mr. Noteboom,

This is in response to your letter of April 12 requesting clarifications of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standard for Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (29 CFR 1910.120). Please accept my apology for the delay in this reply.

Applicable regulations when handling waste material classified as "sludge exempt" in regards to the Hazard Communication and HAZWOPER standards.

OSHA requirements are set by statute, standards and regulations. Our interpretation letters explain these requirements and how they apply to particular circumstances, but they cannot create additional employer obligations. This letter constitutes OSHA's interpretation of the requirements discussed. Note that our enforcement guidance may be affected by changes to OSHA rules. Also, from time to time we update our guidance in response to new information. To keep apprised of such developments, you can consult OSHA's website at https://www.osha.gov.


June 23, 2005

Mr. Kenneth W. Woodlin
P.O. Box 717
Pittsburgh, PA 15230

Dear Mr. Woodlin: