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670 8-hour HAZWOPER Refresher for Cleanup Operations
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Site Control

Per OSHA CFR 29 1910.120(d), appropriate site control procedures must be implemented to control employee exposure to hazardous substances before clean-up work begins.

Site control must be implemented on worksites.

The employer must also develop a site control program for protecting employees which is part of the employer's site safety and health program required in 1910.120(b). The site control program must be developed during the planning stages of a hazardous waste clean-up operation and modified as necessary as new information becomes available.

Site Control Program Elements

Several site control procedures can be implemented to reduce worker and public exposure to chemical, physical, biologic, and safety hazards:

  • Compile a site map.
  • Prepare the site for subsequent activities.
  • Establish work zones.
  • Use the buddy system when necessary.
  • Establish and strictly enforce decontamination procedures for both personnel and equipment.
  • Establish site security measures. Set up communication networks. Enforce safe work practices.
  • The degree of site control necessary depends on site characteristics, site size, and the surrounding community.
  • The site control program should be established in the planning stages of a project and modified based on new information and site assessments.
  • The appropriate sequence for implementing these measures should be determined on a site-specific basis.
  • In many cases, it will be necessary to implement several measures simultaneously.

Knowledge Check Choose the best answer for the question.

6-1. When should the site control be established?