HAZWOPER Test Questions and Answers
HAZWOPER answers for independent study: review 79 questions on OSHA's Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response standard, each quoted from 29 CFR 1910.120.
OSHA Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response standard, 29 CFR 1910.120 (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27): scope and definitions, site safety and health plans, site characterization and control, 40-hour, 24-hour and 8-hour refresher training, medical surveillance, PPE levels A to D, monitoring, drum handling, decontamination, and the emergency responder levels in paragraph (q)
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01Under 29 CFR 1910.120, what is the "buddy system"?
Organizing employees into work groups so that each employee is observed by at least one other employee in the group. Its purpose is to provide rapid assistance to employees in the event of an emergency.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Buddy system means a system of organizing employees into work groups in such a manner that each employee of the work group is designated to be observed by at least one other employee in the work group. The purpose of the buddy system is to provide rapid assistance to employees in the event of an emergency.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗02HAZWOPER defines decontamination as which of the following?
The removal of hazardous substances from employees and their equipment to the extent necessary to preclude foreseeable adverse health effects. The standard defines it as removal "to the extent necessary to preclude the occurrence of foreseeable adverse health affects."
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Decontamination means the removal of hazardous substances from employees and their equipment to the extent necessary to preclude the occurrence of foreseeable adverse health affects.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗03A maintenance worker absorbs a small solvent spill in their own work area at the time of release. Is this an emergency response under HAZWOPER?
No. Incidental releases that can be absorbed, neutralized, or otherwise controlled at the time of release by employees in the immediate release area, or by maintenance personnel, are not emergency responses within the scope of the standard.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Responses to incidental releases of hazardous substances where the substance can be absorbed, neutralized, or otherwise controlled at the time of release by employees in the immediate release area, or by maintenance personnel are not considered to be emergency responses within the scope of this standard.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗04True or false: under HAZWOPER, a typical fire brigade is a HAZMAT team.
False. The standard says a HAZMAT team is not a fire brigade, nor is a typical fire brigade a HAZMAT team, although a HAZMAT team may be a separate component of a fire brigade or fire department.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“A HAZMAT team is not a fire brigade nor is a typical fire brigade a HAZMAT team. A HAZMAT team, however, may be a separate component of a fire brigade or fire department.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗05Which of the following is included in HAZWOPER's definition of a health hazard?
Stress due to temperature extremes. A health hazard is a chemical or a pathogen where acute or chronic health effects may occur in exposed employees, and the term also includes stress due to temperature extremes.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Health hazard means a chemical or a pathogen where acute or chronic health effects may occur in exposed employees. It also includes stress due to temperature extremes.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗06What does IDLH stand for, and what does it mean in 1910.120?
Immediately dangerous to life or health: an atmospheric concentration of a toxic, corrosive or asphyxiant substance that poses an immediate threat to life, would cause irreversible or delayed adverse health effects, or would interfere with an individual's ability to escape from a dangerous atmosphere.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“IDLH or Immediately dangerous to life or health means an atmospheric concentration of any toxic, corrosive or asphyxiant substance that poses an immediate threat to life or would cause irreversible or delayed adverse health effects or would interfere with an individual's ability to escape from a dangerous atmosphere.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗07Below what oxygen percentage by volume does HAZWOPER consider an atmosphere oxygen deficient?
19.5 percent. Oxygen deficiency exists in atmospheres where the percentage of oxygen by volume is less than 19.5 percent oxygen.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“It exists in atmospheres where the percentage of oxygen by volume is less than 19.5 percent oxygen.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗08What is "post emergency response" under 29 CFR 1910.120?
The portion of an emergency response performed after the immediate threat of a release has been stabilized or eliminated and clean-up of the site has begun.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Post emergency response means that portion of an emergency response performed after the immediate threat of a release has been stabilized or eliminated and clean-up of the site has begun.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗09Who is the site safety and health supervisor on a hazardous waste site?
The individual on the site who is responsible to the employer and has the authority and knowledge to implement the site safety and health plan and verify compliance with applicable safety and health requirements.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Site safety and health supervisor (or official) means the individual located on a hazardous waste site who is responsible to the employer and has the authority and knowledge necessary to implement the site safety and health plan and verify compliance with applicable safety and health requirements.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗10HAZWOPER defines a small quantity generator as one that generates no more than how much hazardous waste in a calendar month?
1,000 kilograms (2,205 pounds). The definition covers a generator who in any calendar month generates no more than 1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste in that month.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“generates no more than 1,000 kilograms (2,205 pounds) of hazardous waste in that month”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗11An employer's emergency response operation is not covered by paragraphs (a)(1)(i) through (a)(1)(iv). Which paragraph of 1910.120 must it comply with?
Only paragraph (q), Emergency response to hazardous substance releases.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Emergency response operations for releases of, or substantial threats of releases of, hazardous substances which are not covered by paragraphs (a)(1)(i) through (a)(1)(iv) of this section must only comply with the requirements of paragraph (q) of this section.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗12Where must the site safety and health plan be kept?
On site. The plan, which must be kept on site, shall address the safety and health hazards of each phase of site operation.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The site safety and health plan, which must be kept on site, shall address the safety and health hazards of each phase of site operation”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗13When must pre-entry briefings required by the site specific safety and health plan be held?
Before initiating any site activity. The plan shall provide for pre-entry briefings to be held prior to initiating any site activity.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The site specific safety and health plan shall provide for pre-entry briefings to be held prior to initiating any site activity”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗14Who must perform the preliminary evaluation of a site's characteristics, and when?
A qualified person, before site entry. The evaluation aids in the selection of appropriate employee protection methods prior to site entry.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“A preliminary evaluation of a site's characteristics shall be performed prior to site entry by a qualified person in order to aid in the selection of appropriate employee protection methods prior to site entry.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗15If positive-pressure SCBA is not part of the initial entry ensemble but respiratory protection is warranted, what must employees carry during initial site entry?
An escape self-contained breathing apparatus of at least five minutes' duration.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“an escape self-contained breathing apparatus of at least five minute's duration shall be carried by employees during initial site entry.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗16The preliminary site evaluation does not produce enough information to identify the site's hazards. What minimum protection is required for initial entry?
Protection equivalent to Level B PPE, with direct reading instruments used as appropriate to identify IDLH conditions.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“an ensemble providing protection equivalent to Level B PPE shall be provided as minimum protection, and direct reading instruments shall be used as appropriate for identifying IDLH conditions.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗17During initial site entry, which instruments does 1910.120 give as examples for monitoring the air for IDLH conditions?
Direct reading test equipment such as combustible gas meters and detector tubes. Monitoring with direct reading instruments for hazardous levels of ionizing radiation is also required where that potential exists.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Monitoring with direct reading instruments for hazardous levels of ionizing radiation.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗18When must site control procedures be implemented on a hazardous waste clean-up site?
Before clean-up work begins, to control employee exposure to hazardous substances.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Appropriate site control procedures shall be implemented to control employee exposure to hazardous substances before clean-up work begins.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗19Which of the following is NOT a minimum element of the site control program: site map, site work zones, buddy system, or a list of off-site subcontractors?
A list of off-site subcontractors. At a minimum the program includes a site map, site work zones, the buddy system, site communications including emergency alerting, standard operating procedures or safe work practices, and identification of the nearest medical assistance.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The site control program shall, as a minimum, include: A site map; site work zones; the use of a “buddy system”; site communications including alerting means for emergencies; the standard operating procedures or safe work practices; and, identification of the nearest medical assistance.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗20Can an untrained employee supervise field activities on a hazardous waste site?
No. Employees shall not be permitted to participate in or supervise field activities until they have been trained to a level required by their job function and responsibility.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Employees shall not be permitted to participate in or supervise field activities until they have been trained to a level required by their job function and responsibility.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗21What initial training does HAZWOPER require for general site workers such as equipment operators and laborers at an uncontrolled hazardous waste site?
At least 40 hours of off-site instruction and at least three days of actual field experience under a trained, experienced supervisor.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“shall receive a minimum of 40 hours of instruction off the site, and a minimum of three days actual field experience under the direct supervision of a trained, experienced supervisor.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗22A land surveyor is on a hazardous waste site only occasionally for a specific limited task. What is their minimum initial HAZWOPER training?
24 hours of off-site instruction and one day of actual field experience. The standard names ground water monitoring, land surveying and geo-physical surveying as examples of occasional, limited tasks.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“shall receive a minimum of 24 hours of instruction off the site, and the minimum of one day actual field experience”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗23A worker with 24-hour HAZWOPER training becomes a general site worker in an area that requires respirators. How much more training do they need?
An additional 16 hours and two days of training, to total the 40 hours and three days required for general site workers.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“shall have the additional 16 hours and two days of training necessary to total the training specified in paragraph (e)(3)(i).”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗24Beyond the initial worker training, how much additional training must on-site managers and supervisors directly responsible for hazardous waste operations receive?
At least eight additional hours of specialized training at the time of job assignment.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“at least eight additional hours of specialized training at the time of job assignment”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗25What must an employee receive after completing the required HAZWOPER training and field experience?
A written certificate. The standard says a written certificate shall be given to each person so certified.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“A written certificate shall be given to each person so certified.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗26How much refresher training must HAZWOPER-trained site employees, managers and supervisors receive?
Eight hours annually. The refresher covers the required training topics plus any critique of incidents that occurred in the past year.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“shall receive eight hours of refresher training annually on the items specified in paragraph (e)(2) and/or (e)(4) of this section, any critique of incidents that have occurred in the past year”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗27A certified HAZWOPER worker moves to a new site. What training is required before site entry?
Appropriate site specific training before site entry, plus appropriate supervised field experience at the new site.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“certified employees or employees with equivalent training new to a site shall receive appropriate, site specific training before site entry and have appropriate supervised field experience at the new site.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗28What qualification does 1910.120(e) require of trainers?
They must be qualified to instruct employees about the subject matter being presented in training.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Trainers shall be qualified to instruct employees about the subject matter that is being presented in training.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗29Which hazardous waste site employees must be in the medical surveillance program because of respirator use?
Employees who wear a respirator for 30 days or more a year, or as required by 1910.134. Members of HAZMAT teams are also covered.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Members of HAZMAT teams.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗30How often must covered employees normally receive HAZWOPER medical examinations?
At least once every twelve months, unless the attending physician believes a longer interval, not greater than biennially, is appropriate.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“At least once every twelve months for each employee covered unless the attending physician believes a longer interval (not greater than biennially) is appropriate;”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗31A covered employee is leaving the job and last had a HAZWOPER medical exam eight months ago. Is an exit exam required?
Yes. An exam is required at termination or reassignment if the employee has not had an examination within the last six months.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“At termination of employment or reassignment to an area where the employee would not be covered if the employee has not had an examination within the last six months;”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗32Who pays for HAZWOPER medical examinations?
The employer. Exams and procedures shall be provided without cost to the employee, without loss of pay, and at a reasonable time and place.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“shall be provided without cost to the employee, without loss of pay, and at a reasonable time and place.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗33True or false: the physician's written opinion given to the employer may include diagnoses unrelated to occupational exposures.
False. The written opinion obtained by the employer shall not reveal specific findings or diagnoses unrelated to occupational exposures.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The written opinion obtained by the employer shall not reveal specific findings or diagnoses unrelated to occupational exposures.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗34Which OSHA standard sets the retention period and criteria for HAZWOPER medical surveillance records?
29 CFR 1910.1020, access to employee exposure and medical records.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“This record shall be retained for the period specified and meet the criteria of 29 CFR 1910.1020”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗35May an employer rotate employees as a way to comply with permissible exposure limits on a hazardous waste site?
Generally no. Employee rotation is not allowed as a means of compliance except when there is no other feasible way of complying with the airborne or dermal dose limits for ionizing radiation.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The employer shall not implement a schedule of employee rotation as a means of compliance with permissible exposure limits or dose limits except when there is no other feasible way of complying with the airborne or dermal dose limits for ionizing radiation.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗36Which engineering controls does the 1910.120(g) note give as examples that may be feasible on a hazardous waste site?
Pressurized cabs or control booths on equipment, and remotely operated material handling equipment. Work practices that may be feasible include locating employees upwind of possible hazards.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“locating employees upwind of possible hazards”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗37What respiratory protection is required when exposure levels create a substantial possibility of immediate death or impair the ability to escape?
Positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus, or positive pressure air-line respirators equipped with an escape air supply.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus, or positive pressure air-line respirators equipped with an escape air supply, shall be used when chemical exposure levels present will create a substantial possibility of immediate death, immediate serious illness or injury, or impair the ability to escape.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗38When must totally-encapsulating chemical protective suits (Level A) be used?
When skin absorption of a hazardous substance may result in a substantial possibility of immediate death, immediate serious illness or injury, or impair the ability to escape.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Totally-encapsulating chemical protective suits (protection equivalent to Level A protection as recommended in appendix B) shall be used in conditions where skin absorption of a hazardous substance may result in a substantial possibility of immediate death”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗39Under 1910.120(g), what must a totally-encapsulating suit be capable of?
Maintaining positive air pressure and preventing inward test gas leakage of more than 0.5 percent.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Totally-encapsulating suits shall be capable of preventing inward test gas leakage of more than 0.5 percent.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗40Which of these must the written PPE program address: work mission duration, or the employee's commute time?
Work mission duration. The PPE program also addresses limitations during temperature extremes, heat stress, and other appropriate medical considerations.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Limitations during temperature extremes, heat stress, and other appropriate medical considerations.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗41What air monitoring is required upon initial entry to a hazardous waste site?
Representative air monitoring to identify any IDLH condition, exposure over permissible exposure limits or published exposure levels, exposure over radioactive material dose limits, or other dangerous condition.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Upon initial entry, representative air monitoring shall be conducted to identify any IDLH condition”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗42Which situation triggers periodic monitoring under 1910.120(h)?
Starting work on a different portion of the site, or handling leaking drums or containers or working in areas with obvious liquid contamination such as a spill or lagoon.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“When employees are handling leaking drums or containers or working in areas with obvious liquid contamination (e.g., a spill or lagoon).”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗43After clean-up begins, which employees must the employer monitor under 1910.120(h)?
Those employees likely to have the highest exposures to hazardous substances and health hazards.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“the employer shall monitor those employees likely to have the highest exposures”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗44Are contractors working outside the operations part of a hazardous waste site covered by 1910.120?
No. Employees, contractors and subcontractors working outside of the operations part of a site are not covered by the standard.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Employees, contractors and subcontractors working outside of the operations part of a site are not covered by this standard.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗45How must unlabelled drums be treated on a hazardous waste site?
As containing hazardous substances, and handled accordingly, until the contents are positively identified and labeled.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Unlabelled drums and containers shall be considered to contain hazardous substances and handled accordingly until the contents are positively identified and labeled.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗46What must be kept available in areas where spills, leaks or ruptures of drums may occur?
U.S. Department of Transportation specified salvage drums or containers and suitable quantities of proper absorbent.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“U.S. Department of Transportation specified salvage drums or containers and suitable quantities of proper absorbent shall be kept available”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗47What must be used to estimate the location and depth of buried drums before excavation?
A ground-penetrating system or other type of detection system or device.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“A ground-penetrating system or other type of detection system or device shall be used to estimate the location and depth of buried drums or containers.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗48True or false: employees may stand on drums to reach containers stacked higher on the pile.
False. Employees shall not stand upon or work from drums or containers.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Employees shall not stand upon or work from drums or containers.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗49Where must the controls for drum opening, monitoring and fire suppression equipment be located when drums are opened?
Behind the explosion-resistant barrier.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Controls for drum or container opening equipment, monitoring equipment, and fire suppression equipment shall be located behind the explosion-resistant barrier.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗50A drum on site is visibly bulging. What does HAZWOPER require?
Do not move it until the cause of the excess pressure is determined and appropriate containment procedures are in place.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Drums and containers under pressure, as evidenced by bulging or swelling, shall not be moved until such time as the cause for excess pressure is determined”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗51How must drums containing packaged laboratory wastes be treated until characterized?
As containing shock-sensitive or explosive materials.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Drums and containers containing packaged laboratory wastes shall be considered to contain shock-sensitive or explosive materials until they have been characterized.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗52A worker notices crystalline material on a container. How must its contents be handled?
As a shock-sensitive waste until the contents are identified.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“If crystalline material is noted on any container, the contents shall be handled as a shock-sensitive waste until the contents are identified.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗53When may bulking of hazardous wastes be done?
Only after a thorough characterization of the materials has been completed.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Bulking of hazardous wastes shall be permitted only after a thorough characterization of the materials has been completed.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗54When must the decontamination procedure be developed, communicated and implemented?
Before any employees or equipment enter areas on site where potential for exposure to hazardous substances exists.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“A decontamination procedure shall be developed, communicated to employees and implemented before any employees or equipment may enter areas on site where potential for exposure to hazardous substances exists.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗55Who must monitor decontamination procedures to determine their effectiveness?
The site safety and health supervisor.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Decontamination procedures shall be monitored by the site safety and health supervisor to determine their effectiveness.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗56An employee's non-impermeable clothing becomes wetted with a hazardous substance. What must they do?
Immediately remove that clothing and proceed to shower.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Employees whose non-impermeable clothing becomes wetted with hazardous substances shall immediately remove that clothing and proceed to shower.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗57What must a commercial laundry that decontaminates protective clothing be told?
It must be informed of the potentially harmful effects of exposures to hazardous substances.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Commercial laundries or cleaning establishments that decontaminate protective clothing or equipment shall be informed of the potentially harmful effects of exposures to hazardous substances.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗58Where does the emergency response plan for a hazardous waste clean-up site belong?
In a separate section of the Site Safety and Health Plan, and it must be rehearsed regularly as part of the overall training program.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The emergency response plan shall be rehearsed regularly as part of the overall training program for site operations.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗59Per Table H-120.1, what is the minimum illumination for first aid stations, infirmaries and offices?
30 foot-candles. General site areas need 5 foot-candles and excavation and waste areas 3.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“5 General site areas. 3 Excavation and waste areas”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗60True or false: drinking water on a temporary hazardous waste site may be dipped from its container.
False. Water shall not be dipped from containers.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Water shall not be dipped from containers.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗61When must the employer provide showers and change rooms at a hazardous waste site?
When work will require six months or more to complete, for all employees exposed to hazardous substances and health hazards.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“the duration of the work will require six months or greater time to complete, the employer shall provide showers and change rooms”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗62What initial and refresher training does 1910.120(p) require for new employees at RCRA treatment, storage and disposal (TSD) facilities?
24 hours of initial training and eight hours of refresher training annually.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The initial training shall be for 24 hours and refresher training shall be for eight hours annually.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗63Under 1910.120(q), who becomes the individual in charge of the site-specific Incident Command System?
The senior emergency response official responding to the emergency. Initially that is the senior officer on the first-due piece of responding emergency apparatus to arrive on the scene.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Initially it is the senior officer on the first-due piece of responding emergency apparatus to arrive on the incident scene.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗64Emergency responders face an inhalation hazard. What must they wear, and who can reduce that protection?
Positive pressure SCBA, until the individual in charge of the ICS determines through air monitoring that a decreased level of respiratory protection will not result in hazardous exposures.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“shall wear positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus while engaged in emergency response, until such time that the individual in charge of the ICS determines through the use of air monitoring that a decreased level of respiratory protection will not result in hazardous exposures to employees.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗65How must operations in hazardous areas be performed during an emergency response?
Using the buddy system in groups of two or more, with back-up personnel standing by with equipment ready to provide assistance or rescue.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Back-up personnel shall stand by with equipment ready to provide assistance or rescue.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗66During an emergency response, who may alter, suspend or terminate activities judged to be an IDLH or imminent danger condition?
The safety official designated by the individual in charge of the ICS.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“When activities are judged by the safety official to be an IDLH condition and/or to involve an imminent danger condition, the safety official shall have the authority to alter, suspend, or terminate those activities.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗67May responders swap SCBA cylinders between different approved SCBA units during an emergency?
Yes, when deemed necessary, provided the cylinders are of the same capacity and pressure rating.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“provided that such cylinders are of the same capacity and pressure rating”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗68A crane operator who is not the employer's own employee is called in temporarily for emergency support work. What does HAZWOPER require before they participate?
An initial briefing at the site, covering appropriate PPE, the chemical hazards involved, and the duties to be performed. Skilled support personnel are not required to meet the regular responder training.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“these personnel shall be given an initial briefing at the site prior to their participation in any emergency response.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗69A first responder at the awareness level discovers a release. What action are they trained to take?
Initiate the emergency response by notifying the proper authorities, and take no further action beyond that notification.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“They would take no further action beyond notifying the authorities of the release.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗70First responders at the operations level are trained to respond in what way?
Defensively, without trying to stop the release: they contain it from a safe distance, keep it from spreading, and prevent exposures. They need at least eight hours of training or demonstrated competency.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“First responders at the operational level shall have received at least eight hours of training”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗71Which emergency responder level approaches the point of release to plug, patch or otherwise stop it?
The hazardous materials technician, who needs at least 24 hours of training equal to the first responder operations level.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“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”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗72Which responder acts as the site liaison with Federal, state, local and other government authorities?
The hazardous materials specialist, who needs at least 24 hours of training equal to the technician level.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“at least 24 hours of training equal to the technician level”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗73What minimum training must an on scene incident commander receive under 1910.120(q)?
At least 24 hours of training equal to the first responder operations level, plus competencies that include knowing the state emergency response plan and the Federal Regional Response Team.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Know of the state emergency response plan and of the Federal Regional Response Team.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗74How often must emergency responders trained under 1910.120(q)(6) receive refresher training?
Annually. They receive annual refresher training sufficient to maintain their competencies, or demonstrate competency at least yearly.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“shall receive annual refresher training of sufficient content and duration to maintain their competencies, or shall demonstrate competency in those areas at least yearly.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗75Which PPE level is selected when the greatest level of skin, respiratory and eye protection is required?
Level A. Its equipment includes a totally-encapsulating chemical-protective suit.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Totally-encapsulating chemical-protective suit.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗76Which PPE level gives the highest level of respiratory protection with a lesser level of skin protection?
Level B. Appendix B also lists an atmosphere with less than 19.5 percent oxygen as a condition for Level B.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The atmosphere contains less than 19.5 percent oxygen; or”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗77Level C protection relies on what kind of respirator, and when is it appropriate?
Full-face or half-mask air purifying respirators (NIOSH approved), when the concentrations and types of airborne substances are known and the criteria for using air purifying respirators are met.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“Full-face or half-mask, air purifying respirators (NIOSH approved).”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗78What is Level D protection?
A work uniform affording minimal protection, used for nuisance contamination only, when the atmosphere contains no known hazard.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“The atmosphere contains no known hazard; and”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗79Appendix E recommends what student-instructor ratio for hands-on training in Level A or Level B PPE?
5 students per instructor. Classroom ratios should not exceed 30 students per instructor, and Level C or D hands-on work should be 10 per instructor.
VERIFIED AGAINST THE SOURCE
“For Level C or Level D personal protective equipment the ratio should be 10 students per instructor. For Level A or Level B personal protective equipment the ratio should be 5 students per instructor.”
— 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response (eCFR current as of 2026-10-27) ↗Know questions we're missing?
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