670 8-hour HAZWOPER Refresher for Cleanup Operations

Glossary

This glossary includes terms associated with OSHA's 1910.120, Hazardous waste operations and emergency response.

A

Absorption. A method of hazardous material containment where a material, often a solid, is used to soak up a liquid hazardous substance, thereby containing it and reducing the spread of contamination.
Action Level (AL). A concentration of a hazardous substance calculated as an eight-hour, time-weighted average, which initiates certain required activities such as exposure monitoring and medical surveillance as specified by OSHA.
Acute Exposure. An exposure to a hazardous substance that occurs in a short period of time, typically less than 24 hours. This type of exposure can result in immediate health effects.
Adsorption. A process where a solid material is used to attract and hold hazardous liquids or gases on its surface, effectively trapping the contaminants and preventing them from spreading. This is often used in spill response.
Air Monitoring. The process of sampling the air to detect and measure hazardous substances to ensure that exposure levels do not exceed established safety limits. This is critical in determining the need for protective equipment and the effectiveness of control measures.
Air-Purifying Respirator (APR). A type of respirator that removes contaminants from the air through filters or cartridges before it is inhaled by the user. APRs are used in environments where there is sufficient oxygen and where the types and concentrations of contaminants are known.
Alkaline. A substance with a pH greater than 7 that can neutralize acids. Alkaline substances are commonly used in chemical neutralization during hazardous material cleanup.

B

Biological Monitoring. The measurement and assessment of hazardous substances or their metabolites in biological specimens, such as blood or urine, to evaluate occupational exposure and health risks.
Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP). Infectious microorganisms in human blood that can cause disease in humans. These pathogens include, but are not limited to, hepatitis B virus (HBV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
Buddy System. A safety procedure in which two individuals, the "buddies," operate together as a single unit so that they can monitor and help each other in hazardous situations.

C

Chemical Compatibility. The ability of materials or chemicals to be stored or used together without adverse effects. Understanding chemical compatibility is crucial in hazardous waste management to prevent dangerous reactions.
Chemical Protective Clothing (CPC). Clothing designed to protect workers from exposure to hazardous chemicals. CPC varies in levels of protection based on the type of chemical and the risk of exposure, including suits, gloves, and boots.
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). The federal law designed to clean up sites contaminated with hazardous substances and pollutants. It is also known as "Superfund."
Conditionally Exempt Small Quantity Generators (CESQGs). Entities that produce a small amount of hazardous waste and are subject to less stringent regulatory requirements under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA).
Chronic Exposure. Repeated or continuous exposure to a hazardous substance over an extended period, often resulting in long-term health effects.
Chronic Health Hazard. A hazard that may cause serious long-term health effects after repeated or prolonged exposure to a hazardous substance, including carcinogenicity, respiratory problems, or organ damage.
Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). A compilation of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the departments and agencies of the federal government.
Confined Space. A space that is large enough for a worker to enter and perform assigned work but has limited or restricted means for entry or exit and is not designed for continuous occupancy. Confined spaces may have hazards such as toxic atmospheres, oxygen deficiency, or physical dangers.
Contamination Reduction Zone (Warm Zone). An area immediately adjacent to the Exclusion Zone where decontamination activities take place to reduce contamination spread to other areas. Workers here may require protective gear depending on the level of contamination.
Control Measures. Strategies or equipment implemented to reduce or eliminate exposure to hazardous substances. Control measures include engineering controls, administrative controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Control Zone. An area delineated at a hazardous waste site or during an emergency response to control the spread of contaminants and protect workers. Control zones are typically divided into Exclusion Zone (hot zone), Contamination Reduction Zone (warm zone), and Support Zone (cold zone).
Corrosive. A substance that can cause destruction or irreversible damage to another substance or material through a chemical reaction. Corrosive substances can damage human tissue, metals, and other materials.

D

Decontamination. The process of removing or neutralizing contaminants that have accumulated on personnel and equipment. This is essential to prevent the spread of hazardous substances and to protect workers and the environment.
Degradation. The process by which a chemical substance is broken down into simpler compounds, potentially reducing its toxicity but sometimes creating hazardous by-products. Degradation can also refer to the breakdown of protective clothing and equipment when exposed to hazardous substances.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS). A federal agency responsible for protecting the United States from terrorist attacks and responding to natural disasters and other emergencies.
Department of Transportation (DOT). A federal agency responsible for ensuring a fast, safe, efficient, accessible, and convenient transportation system across the United States.
Dermal Exposure. Contact between a hazardous substance and the skin. Dermal exposure can lead to absorption of the substance into the body, causing local or systemic health effects.

E

Emergency Action Plan (EAP). A plan that outlines the actions to be taken by workers and employers during a workplace emergency to ensure safe evacuation, emergency response, and protection of workers.
Emergency Response Plan (ERP). A written plan that details the procedures to follow during an emergency involving hazardous substances, including evacuations, medical treatments, and spill containment.
Engineering Controls. Physical changes to the workplace that isolate workers from hazards, such as ventilation systems, containment, and substitution of less hazardous materials.
Emergency Response Plan (ERP). A document that outlines the procedures for addressing and managing emergencies involving hazardous substances to protect workers, the public, and the environment.
Emergency Response Team (ERT). A group of trained individuals responsible for managing and responding to emergencies involving hazardous materials, including spills, leaks, or other uncontrolled releases. The team is equipped to handle incidents safely and effectively.
Environmental Monitoring. The systematic collection and analysis of environmental samples (air, water, soil) to detect and measure the presence of hazardous substances and assess their potential impact on human health and the environment.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). A federal agency tasked with protecting human health and the environment by enforcing regulations based on laws passed by Congress.
Evacuation. The immediate and rapid removal of people from an area where there is an imminent threat to health or safety, such as during a hazardous materials incident or natural disaster. Evacuation procedures are a critical component of an Emergency Response Plan (ERP).
Evaporation Rate. The rate at which a liquid turns into vapor. Knowing the evaporation rate of a hazardous substance is important for assessing exposure risk and determining the need for ventilation or other control measures.
Exclusion Zone (Hot Zone). The innermost area around a hazardous material spill or incident site where contamination is present or suspected. Access is strictly controlled to protect personnel from exposure to hazardous substances.
Exposure Limit. The maximum amount or concentration of a chemical to which a worker may be exposed under OSHA regulations. This includes permissible exposure limits (PELs) and threshold limit values (TLVs).

F

Facepiece. The part of a respirator that covers the wearer’s nose and mouth (or full face) and is designed to provide a gas-tight or dust-tight seal against the face. The facepiece is a critical component of both air-purifying respirators and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
First Aid. Immediate and temporary medical assistance given to an individual who is injured or ill until professional medical care can be provided. In hazardous waste operations and emergency response, first aid is essential for treating injuries resulting from exposure to hazardous substances.
First Responder Awareness Level. The initial level of emergency response training for personnel who are likely to witness or discover a hazardous substance release and who have been trained to initiate an emergency response sequence by notifying the authorities.
Fit Test. A procedure used to evaluate the fit of a respirator on an individual to ensure it forms an adequate seal with the face. Fit testing is required by OSHA to verify that the respirator provides the intended level of protection against hazardous substances.
Flammable Liquid. A liquid that has a flash point below 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8 degrees Celsius) and is capable of igniting at normal working temperatures. Flammable liquids pose significant fire and explosion hazards, requiring careful handling and storage in hazardous waste operations.
Flammable Range. The range of concentrations of a gas or vapor in air that will ignite if an ignition source is present. The flammable range is defined by the lower explosive limit (LEL) and the upper explosive limit (UEL) and is critical for assessing fire and explosion risks in hazardous environments.
Flashback. The phenomenon of a flame traveling back from a burner or flame front to the gas source. Flashback can occur in flammable gas systems and poses a serious fire and explosion hazard. Proper safety measures, such as flame arrestors, are necessary to prevent flashbacks.
Flash Point. The lowest temperature at which a liquid can form an ignitable mixture in air. Knowing the flash point of a substance is essential for handling flammable liquids safely, as it indicates how easily a substance can ignite.
Fume. Tiny particles suspended in air, typically formed when a material is vaporized at high temperatures and then condenses into fine particles. Fumes are commonly produced during welding, smelting, or other high-temperature processes involving metals and can pose inhalation hazards.

G

Gamma Radiation. A type of ionizing radiation that is highly penetrating and can pose serious health risks if exposure occurs. Gamma radiation is emitted from radioactive materials and requires dense shielding, such as lead or concrete, for protection.
General Duty Clause. A section of the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 that requires employers to provide a workplace free from recognized hazards that are likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees, even if there are no specific OSHA standards covering the hazard.
Grounding. A safety procedure used to prevent the buildup of static electricity by connecting an object or equipment to the earth through a conductive path. Grounding is crucial in hazardous environments where static discharge could ignite flammable substances.
Gross Decontamination. An initial stage of decontamination designed to remove the bulk of contaminants from personnel and equipment, usually performed quickly to reduce the spread of contamination and minimize exposure to hazardous substances.
GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter). A device that quickly shuts off electric power if it detects a ground fault or current leak, protecting workers from electrical shock. GFCIs are commonly used in wet or damp environments where the risk of electric shock is increased.
Geiger Counter. A device used for detecting and measuring ionizing radiation, such as alpha particles, beta particles, and gamma rays. Geiger counters are commonly used in hazardous waste operations and emergency responses involving radioactive materials.
Gas Detector. An instrument used to detect the presence of gases in an area, often as part of a safety system. Gas detectors are used to identify potentially hazardous substances in the air and are essential for protecting workers in environments where toxic or flammable gases may be present.
Globally Harmonized System (GHS). An internationally agreed-upon system for classifying and labeling chemicals, aiming to provide consistent hazard communication through standardized labeling and safety data sheets (SDS). GHS is implemented in the U.S. as part of OSHA's Hazard Communication Standard (HCS).
Guidelines for Protecting Workers from Occupational Hazards. A set of recommendations or best practices provided by organizations such as OSHA, NIOSH, or other safety bodies to help employers and workers minimize exposure to hazards and prevent occupational illnesses and injuries.

H

Hazard Assessment. A systematic process to identify, evaluate, and prioritize hazards associated with a particular job or task, used to implement appropriate controls and reduce risk.
Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). An OSHA regulation that requires employers to provide information and training to employees about hazardous chemicals they may be exposed to in the workplace.
Hazardous Atmosphere. An atmosphere that poses a risk of death, incapacitation, or illness due to the presence of toxic chemicals, lack of oxygen, or flammable gases or vapors.
Hazardous Materials (HAZMAT). Substances that pose a risk to health, safety, or property when transported, stored, or otherwise handled.
Hazardous Substance. Any chemical or biological substance that poses a risk to human health or the environment due to its chemical properties, including toxicity, flammability, reactivity, or corrosivity. Hazardous substances are regulated by various federal and state laws.
Hazardous Waste. Waste materials that are dangerous or potentially harmful to human health or the environment, which are subject to regulatory oversight under RCRA and other environmental laws.
Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER). A set of OSHA regulations designed to protect workers involved in hazardous waste operations and emergency response activities.
Health Hazard. A chemical, mixture, or substance that has the potential to cause adverse health effects, such as toxic effects, carcinogenicity, or reproductive hazards.
Health and Safety Plan (HASP). A comprehensive document outlining the procedures, practices, and policies to ensure the safety and health of workers at a hazardous waste site.
Heat Stress. A condition resulting from the body’s inability to cope with the heat, which can lead to heat exhaustion, heat cramps, or heat stroke. Workers wearing PPE in hazardous environments may be at increased risk of heat stress, requiring appropriate preventive measures.

I

Ignition Source. Any item or process that can cause a flammable material to ignite, including open flames, sparks, or hot surfaces. Identifying and controlling ignition sources is crucial in environments where flammable materials are present.
Incident Commander (IC). The individual responsible for all aspects of emergency response management, including the development of strategies, tactics, and resource allocation. The Incident Commander has overall authority and responsibility for conducting incident operations.
Incident Command System (ICS). A standardized approach to the command, control, and coordination of emergency response providing a common hierarchy within which responders from multiple agencies can be effective.
Immediately Dangerous to Life or Health (IDLH). A term used to describe environments where exposure to hazardous substances poses an immediate threat to life or health or could impair an individual’s ability to escape.

J

Job Hazard Analysis (JHA). A technique that focuses on job tasks to identify hazards before they occur. It examines the relationship between the worker, the task, the tools, and the work environment to identify potential hazards and implement preventive measures.
Job Safety Analysis (JSA). A procedure that helps integrate accepted safety and health principles and practices into a particular task or job operation. In a JSA, each basic step of the job is examined to identify potential hazards and determine the safest way to perform the job.
Joint Information Center (JIC). A central location that facilitates the coordination and dissemination of public information during and after an emergency. The JIC ensures consistent and accurate communication to the public, media, and stakeholders by collaborating among various agencies and organizations.

K

Keep Out Zone. An area surrounding a hazardous material spill or incident where access is strictly prohibited due to the presence of significant health or safety risks. This zone is designated to protect personnel and prevent contamination spread.
Key Personnel. Individuals designated as having specific responsibilities or authority in the management and response to hazardous waste operations or emergency situations. Key personnel typically include the Incident Commander, safety officers, and hazardous materials specialists.
Known Carcinogen. A substance that is recognized by health authorities, such as the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), as having sufficient evidence of causing cancer in humans. Handling known carcinogens requires stringent control measures and PPE.

L

LEL (Lower Explosive Limit). The lowest concentration of a vapor in air that can ignite or explode if an ignition source is present. Vapors below this concentration are too lean to burn, making the LEL a critical safety parameter in hazardous materials handling.
Level A Protection. The highest level of personal protective equipment, including a fully encapsulating chemical-resistant suit with a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) or supplied air respirator (SAR). It provides maximum respiratory, skin, and eye protection against hazardous substances.
Level B Protection. A level of personal protective equipment that includes a chemical-resistant suit and SCBA or SAR. It provides a high level of respiratory protection but less skin protection than Level A. Level B is used when the highest level of respiratory protection is needed but less skin protection is required.
Level C Protection. A level of personal protective equipment that includes a chemical-resistant suit and an air-purifying respirator (APR). It provides a lower level of respiratory and skin protection than Levels A and B and is used when the type and concentration of airborne substances are known, and air contaminants are at levels that do not pose an IDLH condition.
Level D Protection. The lowest level of personal protective equipment, typically consisting of standard work clothing such as coveralls, gloves, and safety glasses. Level D provides minimal protection and is used when no respiratory protection is needed, and minimal skin hazards are present.
Litmus Test. A qualitative chemical test using litmus paper to determine whether a substance is acidic or basic (alkaline). This simple test helps identify chemical hazards and inform appropriate safety measures during hazardous materials handling.
Lockout/Tagout (LOTO). A safety procedure used to ensure that dangerous machines are properly shut off and not started up again before the completion of maintenance or servicing work. LOTO involves isolating energy sources and affixing lockout devices or tags to prevent accidental start-up of equipment.
Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV). An engineering control system that captures and removes airborne contaminants at their source before they can be inhaled by workers. LEV systems are commonly used to control exposure to hazardous fumes, vapors, and dust in workplaces.
Lower Explosive Limit (LEL). The lowest concentration of a gas or vapor in the air that can produce a flame when an ignition source is present. Below this level, the mixture is too "lean" to burn.

M

Medical Surveillance. The systematic collection and analysis of health data on workers exposed to hazardous substances, used to identify and prevent potential adverse health effects.
Monitoring. The process of measuring the presence of hazardous substances in the air or on surfaces in the workplace to ensure compliance with exposure limits and safety standards.
Monitoring Instruments. Devices used to detect and measure the concentration of hazardous substances in the air, such as gas detectors, photoionization detectors (PIDs), and dosimeters. These instruments are critical for ensuring safe levels of exposure in hazardous environments.
Monitoring Plan. A comprehensive document outlining the procedures and strategies for sampling and analyzing environmental media (air, water, soil) to assess the presence and concentration of hazardous substances at a site.

N

National Contingency Plan (NCP). The federal government's blueprint for responding to oil spills and hazardous substance releases, ensuring a coordinated, efficient, and effective response to protect public health and the environment. The NCP outlines the responsibilities of federal, state, and local responders.
National Incident Management System (NIMS). A framework developed by FEMA for managing incidents that provides a consistent nationwide approach for federal, state, local, and tribal governments to work effectively together.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). A federal agency responsible for conducting research and making recommendations for the prevention of work-related injuries and illnesses. NIOSH develops and publishes guidelines, including exposure limits for hazardous substances.
National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE). An organization that sets standards for athletic equipment to reduce the risk of injuries. While not directly related to HAZWOPER, the principles of safety and injury prevention are aligned with occupational health and safety practices.
National Priority List (NPL). A list maintained by the EPA of sites in the United States that are contaminated with hazardous substances and require cleanup under the Superfund program.
Nerve Agents. A class of highly toxic chemical compounds that interfere with the nervous system by inhibiting the enzyme acetylcholinesterase, leading to overstimulation of muscles and other bodily functions. Examples include sarin, soman, and VX. Nerve agents are considered weapons of mass destruction (WMDs).
Neutralization. A chemical reaction in which an acid and a base react to form water and a salt, effectively reducing the hazardous properties of the original substances. Neutralization is often used in spill response to mitigate the dangers of corrosive chemicals.
NIOSH Certified. Refers to equipment, especially respirators, that have been tested and certified by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health for use in protecting workers from specific hazards. NIOSH certification ensures that the equipment meets minimum performance standards.
No-Observed-Adverse-Effect Level (NOAEL). The highest exposure level at which there are no significant increases in frequency or severity of adverse effects in exposed populations compared to control groups. It is used in risk assessment to determine safe exposure levels.
Non-permissible Exposure Limit (Non-PEL). Refers to an exposure limit or guideline that is not legally enforceable under OSHA regulations but may be recommended by other agencies or organizations, such as NIOSH or the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH).
Notice of Intent (NOI). A formal notification submitted to a regulatory agency, such as the EPA, indicating an entity's intent to comply with a regulatory requirement or to perform a regulated activity. This term is commonly used in environmental compliance and waste management.
Notice of Violation (NOV). An official document issued by a regulatory agency stating that a company or individual has violated certain regulations, laws, or permit conditions. An NOV typically outlines the nature of the violation, required corrective actions, and potential penalties.
Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC). An independent federal agency responsible for regulating civilian use of nuclear materials to ensure public health and safety, promote common defense and security, and protect the environment. The NRC regulates nuclear power plants and other uses of nuclear materials.

O

Occupational Exposure. Exposure to hazardous substances or conditions that occurs as a result of performing job duties. This exposure can be acute or chronic, depending on the frequency and duration of exposure.
Occupational Health. The field of healthcare and safety focused on preventing work-related injuries and illnesses through the recognition, evaluation, and control of workplace hazards.
Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). A federal agency responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions by setting and enforcing standards and providing training, outreach, education, and assistance.
On-Scene Coordinator (OSC). The federal official responsible for coordinating emergency response activities at the scene of a hazardous substance release or oil spill. The OSC ensures an effective response and minimizes harm to public health and the environment.
Organic Vapor Monitor (OVM). A device used to detect and measure concentrations of organic vapors in the air, which helps ensure that workers are not exposed to harmful levels of hazardous substances.
Overexposure. A situation in which a worker is exposed to a hazardous substance in excess of established exposure limits, potentially leading to adverse health effects or injury.
Oxidizer. A chemical that can cause or enhance the combustion of other materials, increasing the risk of fire or explosion. Oxidizers are considered hazardous substances and require careful handling and storage.
Oxygen Deficiency. A condition in which the concentration of oxygen in the air is below the level required to sustain human life, typically less than 19.5% by volume. Oxygen-deficient environments pose significant risks to workers, such as asphyxiation, and require specific safety measures, including the use of respiratory protection.
Oxygen-Enriched Atmosphere. An atmosphere that contains more than 23.5% oxygen by volume. Oxygen-enriched atmospheres increase the risk of fire or explosion and require careful control of ignition sources and flammable materials.

P

Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL). The maximum amount or concentration of a hazardous substance that a worker can be exposed to under OSHA regulations. PELs are established based on an eight-hour time-weighted average.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Equipment worn to minimize exposure to hazards that cause serious workplace injuries and illnesses. This includes items like gloves, goggles, respirators, and protective clothing.
Personal Protective Equipment Program. A program developed by employers to ensure the proper selection, maintenance, use, and disposal of PPE, aimed at minimizing worker exposure to hazardous substances and conditions.
Post-Emergency Response Operations. Activities conducted after the immediate threat of a hazardous materials release has been stabilized or eliminated. These operations may include cleanup, decontamination, and site restoration.

Q

Qualified Person. An individual who, by possession of a recognized degree, certificate, or professional standing, or by extensive knowledge, training, and experience, has successfully demonstrated the ability to solve or resolve problems relating to the subject matter, work, or project. In the context of HAZWOPER, a qualified person is often responsible for overseeing health and safety measures on a hazardous waste site or during emergency response activities.
Qualitative Fit Test (QLFT). A pass/fail test used to assess the fit of a respirator on an individual based on the wearer’s detection of a test agent (such as saccharin or isoamyl acetate). This type of test relies on the wearer's sensory response to detect leakage into the respirator and is commonly used for respirators that do not require a high level of protection.
Quantitative Fit Test (QNFT). A method used to assess the fit of a respirator on an individual by measuring the amount of leakage into the respirator. This type of test provides a numerical measurement (fit factor) and is often used to ensure that the respirator is providing adequate protection against hazardous airborne substances.

R

Radiation Survey. The process of measuring and assessing levels of radiation in a specific area or environment to evaluate potential exposure risks to personnel and ensure safety compliance. Surveys are conducted using specialized instruments, such as Geiger counters or scintillation detectors.
Reactive Waste. A type of hazardous waste that is unstable or reacts violently under normal conditions. Reactive waste can cause explosions, toxic fumes, gases, or vapors when mixed with water or exposed to heat or pressure. Proper handling and storage are critical to prevent accidents.
Reactivity. A chemical property that describes a substance's tendency to undergo chemical reactions, often with the release of energy. Reactive substances can pose significant hazards, including explosions or the release of toxic gases, and must be handled with appropriate precautions.
Recordkeeping. The systematic process of maintaining accurate and detailed records of hazardous waste activities, employee training, medical surveillance, and exposure monitoring, as required by OSHA and other regulatory agencies. Proper recordkeeping ensures compliance and protects worker health and safety.
Rescue Operations. The actions taken to save individuals from dangerous or life-threatening situations, often involving hazardous materials or confined spaces. Rescue operations require specialized training and equipment to ensure the safety of both the rescuer and the victim.
Respiratory Hazard. A condition in which airborne contaminants, such as dust, fumes, mists, gases, or vapors, are present at concentrations that pose a risk to health. Respiratory hazards can cause respiratory illness or other adverse health effects if inhaled.
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA). A federal law governing the disposal of solid and hazardous waste in the United States, emphasizing waste management and resource conservation.
Respiratory Protection Program. A comprehensive program required by OSHA for workplaces where respirators are necessary to protect the health of employees. The program includes respirator selection, fit testing, training, and maintenance to ensure effective protection.
Risk Assessment. The systematic process of evaluating potential risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances or situations. Risk assessment includes identifying hazards, assessing the likelihood and severity of adverse effects, and determining appropriate control measures to reduce or eliminate risks.
Risk Management. The process of identifying, assessing, and prioritizing risks associated with hazardous materials or situations and implementing strategies to mitigate or eliminate those risks. Risk management involves hazard control measures, training, emergency planning, and continuous monitoring to ensure safety.
Routinely Identified Hazardous Substance (RIHS). A hazardous substance that is commonly encountered in specific industries or workplaces. RIHS are identified and addressed in site-specific health and safety plans to ensure proper handling, storage, and disposal to protect workers and the environment.
Runoff. Water that flows over land surfaces, often picking up contaminants such as hazardous substances, chemicals, or pollutants, which can then enter water bodies or sewer systems. Managing runoff is critical to prevent environmental contamination and protect public health.

S

Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP). An OSHA program that recognizes small business employers who operate exemplary safety and health programs, providing incentives for continual improvement.
Safety Data Sheet (SDS). A document that provides detailed information about a hazardous chemical, including its properties, health hazards, safe handling, storage, and emergency measures. SDSs are a crucial component of workplace safety and hazard communication.
Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA). A device worn by workers to provide breathable air in environments that are immediately dangerous to life or health (IDLH) or oxygen-deficient.
Site Safety and Health Plan (SSHP). A comprehensive document that outlines the health and safety procedures and requirements for a specific hazardous waste site or operation, including training, monitoring, and emergency response.
Skilled Support Personnel (SSP). Individuals with specialized skills needed during an emergency response, including technical experts and specialized operators, who may not have been pre-trained but are essential to the response.
Sorbents. Materials used to absorb or adsorb hazardous liquids or gases, often used in spill response and cleanup operations to contain and remove contaminants from the environment. Sorbents can be natural or synthetic and vary in effectiveness based on the type of substance.
Spill Containment. Measures taken to prevent the spread of a hazardous material following a release, such as using barriers, dikes, or absorbent materials to contain the substance and prevent environmental contamination.
Spill Kit. A collection of equipment and supplies used to contain and clean up hazardous material spills. Spill kits typically include absorbent materials, protective gear, neutralizing agents, and disposal bags.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). Detailed, written instructions to achieve uniformity of the performance of a specific function. SOPs are used to ensure compliance with regulations and safe work practices.
Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA). An act that amended CERCLA and emphasized the importance of permanent remedies and innovative treatment technologies in cleaning up hazardous waste sites.
Support Zone (Cold Zone). The outermost area of a hazardous material incident site that is considered safe and free from contamination. This zone typically contains command and control functions, medical facilities, and other support operations.

T

Technical Assistance Team (TAT). A group of specialists that provides expert advice and support during hazardous materials incidents, particularly for incidents requiring complex technical solutions or involving unfamiliar hazardous substances.
Thermal Stress. Physical stress placed on the body due to extreme temperatures, which can lead to conditions such as hypothermia, frostbite, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke. Workers in hazardous environments may be at risk for thermal stress, requiring appropriate protective measures.
Threshold Limit Value (TLV). The level to which it is believed a worker can be exposed day after day for a working lifetime without adverse health effects. TLVs are guidelines, not legal standards, established by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH).
Toxic Release Inventory (TRI). A resource for learning about toxic chemical releases and pollution prevention activities reported by industrial and federal facilities in the United States, as mandated by the EPA.
Toxicity. The degree to which a chemical substance can harm humans or animals. Toxicity is influenced by factors such as dosage, exposure duration, and the substance's properties. Understanding toxicity is critical in assessing risks associated with hazardous substances.
Training. A required component of HAZWOPER, it involves educating workers on the recognition, avoidance, and prevention of safety and health hazards in the workplace. Training is essential for ensuring workers can safely perform their duties.
Training Plan. A written document that outlines the required training, schedules, and methods for ensuring that employees are adequately trained to safely perform their duties in hazardous waste operations and emergency response activities. The plan is an essential component of compliance with OSHA's HAZWOPER standards.
Transport Index (TI). A number assigned to a package containing radioactive material, indicating the maximum radiation level at one meter from the surface of the package. The TI helps ensure safe handling and transportation of radioactive materials.
Transportation of Dangerous Goods (TDG). Regulations and guidelines governing the safe transport of hazardous materials, designed to prevent accidents and ensure the protection of people and the environment. These rules cover classification, packaging, labeling, and documentation of dangerous goods during transportation.
Treatment, Storage, and Disposal (TSD). A term used in the context of hazardous waste management facilities that treat, store, or dispose of hazardous waste in accordance with RCRA regulations.
Type C Personal Protective Equipment. Equipment that provides a constant flow of clean air through an air-purifying respirator, full-face mask, or hood, typically supplied by an airline. This equipment is used in environments where airborne contaminants are present and where continuous, safe breathing air supply is required.

U

Uncontrolled Hazardous Waste Site. A location where hazardous substances are found in significant concentrations, posing a potential risk to human health or the environment. These sites require emergency response and cleanup operations according to HAZWOPER standards.
Unit of Measure. A standard quantity used to specify measurements of hazardous substances, such as parts per million (ppm), milligrams per cubic meter (mg/m³), or liters (L), ensuring consistency and accuracy in reporting and monitoring.
Upper Explosive Limit (UEL). The maximum concentration of a vapor or gas in air that can form an ignitable mixture. Above this concentration, the mixture is too rich to ignite. Understanding the UEL is crucial for preventing explosive incidents in hazardous environments.
Ultraviolet (UV) Radiation. A type of electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength shorter than visible light but longer than X-rays. UV radiation can cause skin burns and damage to the eyes and is considered a hazard in certain industrial and laboratory settings.

Underground Storage Tank (UST).

Universal Precautions. An approach to infection control where all human blood and certain body fluids are treated as if known to be infectious for bloodborne pathogens, emphasizing the use of protective measures and PPE to prevent exposure.
Unknowns. Substances or materials whose composition or hazards are not immediately identifiable. Special precautions must be taken when handling unknowns, including using appropriate PPE and conducting preliminary hazard assessments.

V

Vapor Density. A measure of the density of a vapor or gas compared to the density of air. Vapors with densities greater than air can settle in low-lying areas, creating potential hazards in confined spaces.
Vapor Pressure. The pressure exerted by a vapor in equilibrium with its liquid or solid form at a given temperature. A substance with high vapor pressure evaporates easily, which can increase the concentration of hazardous vapors in the air, posing potential inhalation risks.
Ventilation. The process of supplying fresh air and removing contaminated air from a workspace to control exposure to airborne contaminants. Ventilation systems can include general dilution ventilation or local exhaust ventilation to reduce hazardous vapors, gases, or dust.
Visibility. The clarity or ability to see clearly in an environment, which can be affected by the presence of hazardous vapors, smoke, or particulate matter. Maintaining good visibility is crucial in hazardous environments to ensure safe operations and effective emergency response.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). Organic chemicals that have a high vapor pressure at room temperature, leading to significant vapor formation. VOCs are commonly found in solvents, paints, and industrial chemicals and can pose serious health risks due to their toxicity and flammability.
Volatility. A measure of how readily a substance vaporizes. Highly volatile substances can create significant inhalation hazards and require careful handling and storage.
Voluntary Protection Programs (VPP). An OSHA initiative that encourages private industry and federal agencies to prevent workplace injuries and illnesses through hazard prevention and control, worksite analysis, training, management commitment, and worker involvement.

W

Warm Zone (Contamination Reduction Zone). The area between the Exclusion Zone (hot zone) and the Support Zone (cold zone) at a hazardous material incident site. The warm zone serves as a buffer zone where decontamination takes place and controls are in place to prevent the spread of contamination to the Support Zone.
Warning Line System. A barrier erected on a roof to warn workers that they are approaching an unprotected roof side or edge. This system helps prevent falls by alerting workers to stay away from areas where they could fall.
Work Practice Controls. Procedures that reduce the likelihood of exposure to hazards by altering the way a task is performed. Examples include changing work methods, using proper lifting techniques, and regular cleaning of work surfaces.
Work Zones. Designated areas established at hazardous waste sites or emergency response scenes to control and limit exposure to hazards. Work zones typically include the Exclusion Zone (hot zone), Contamination Reduction Zone (warm zone), and Support Zone (cold zone).
Worker Exposure. The amount or concentration of a hazardous substance a worker comes into contact with during their job. Exposure can occur through inhalation, skin contact, ingestion, or injection, and can lead to acute or chronic health effects.
Worksite Analysis. A systematic review of the workplace to identify potential hazards, assess risks, and determine the controls necessary to protect workers from exposure to hazardous substances. Worksite analysis is an essential component of a comprehensive safety and health program.

X

Xenobiotic. A chemical substance that is foreign to a biological system, typically referring to synthetic compounds such as drugs, pollutants, and pesticides that are not naturally produced by an organism or found in its usual environment. These substances may require special handling and disposal due to their potential toxicity or environmental impact.

Y

Yield Strength. The amount of stress at which a material begins to deform permanently. In the context of hazardous material handling and equipment selection, yield strength is a critical property that determines the suitability of materials for use in environments that may be exposed to mechanical or chemical stressors.
Yellow Zone. A term sometimes used interchangeably with "Contamination Reduction Zone" (Warm Zone) in hazardous material operations. The Yellow Zone is the area between the Exclusion Zone (Hot Zone) and the Support Zone (Cold Zone) where decontamination and other control measures are implemented to reduce the spread of hazardous substances.

Z

Zero Mechanical State (ZMS). A condition in which all energy sources in a machine or system are isolated, locked out, and reduced to zero, ensuring no movement or energy release. This state is achieved to protect workers during maintenance or repair activities, particularly when hazardous materials or energy could cause harm.