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There are five levels of training outlined in HAZWOPER. Emergency responders with this training make up a hazardous materials response (HAZMAT) team. The first level of training is the first responder awareness level.
You need HAZWOPER first responder awareness level training if:
Training gives you the ability to decide whether a release is incidental or if it requires an emergency response.
What is a non-emergency (incidental) release of a hazardous substance?
An incidental release:
For example, if the hazardous substances in the work area are always stored in very small quantities (pint sizes down to test tubes) that do not pose a significant safety and health threat at that volume, then there is a minimal risk of having a release escalate into an emergency. In this setting, incidental releases will generally be the norm, and employees with HazCom training will be able to protect themselves while handling these releases.
What is an emergency (uncontrolled) release of a hazardous substance?