[Code of Federal Regulations]
[Title 29, Volume 5]
[Revised as of January 1, 2007]
From the U.S. Government Printing Office via GPO Access
[CITE: 29CFR1910.120]
[Page 368-410]
TITLE 29--LABOR
CHAPTER XVII--OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ADMINISTRATION, DEPARTMENT
OF LABOR
PART 1910_OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH STANDARDS--Table of Contents
Subpart H_Hazardous Materials
Sec. 1910.120 Hazardous waste operations and emergency response.
(a) Scope, application, and definitions--(1) Scope. This section
covers the following operations, unless the employer can demonstrate
that the operation does not involve employee exposure or the reasonable
possibility for employee exposure to safety or health hazards:
(i) Clean-up operations required by a governmental body, whether
Federal, state, local or other involving hazardous substances that are
conducted at uncontrolled hazardous waste sites (including, but not
limited to, the EPA's National Priority Site List (NPL), state priority
site lists, sites recommended for the EPA NPL, and initial
investigations of government identified sites which are conducted before
the presence or absence of hazardous substances has been ascertained);
(ii) Corrective actions involving clean-up operations at sites
covered by the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA) as
amended (42 U.S.C. 6901 et seq.);
(iii) Voluntary clean-up operations at sites recognized by Federal,
state, local or other governmental bodies as uncontrolled hazardous
waste sites;
(iv) Operations involving hazardous wastes that are conducted at
treatment, storage, and disposal (TSD) facilities regulated by 40 CFR
parts 264 and 265 pursuant to RCRA; or by agencies under agreement with
U.S.E.P.A. to implement RCRA regulations; and
(v) Emergency response operations for releases of, or substantial
threats of releases of, hazardous substances without regard to the
location of the hazard.
(2) Application. (i) All requirements of part 1910 and part 1926 of
title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations apply pursuant to their
terms to hazardous waste and emergency response operations whether
covered by this section or not. If there is a conflict or overlap, the
provision more protective of employee safety and health shall apply
without regard to 29 CFR 1910.5(c)(1).
(ii) Hazardous substance clean-up operations within the scope of
paragraphs (a)(1)(i) through (a)(1)(iii) of this section must comply
with all paragraphs of this section except paragraphs (p) and (q).
(iii) Operations within the scope of paragraph (a)(1)(iv) of this
section must comply only with the requirements of paragraph (p) of this
section.
Notes and Exceptions: (A) All provisions of paragraph (p) of this
section cover any treatment, storage or disposal (TSD) operation
regulated by 40 CFR parts 264 and 265 or by state law authorized under
RCRA, and required to have a permit or interim status from EPA pursuant
to 40 CFR 270.1 or from a state agency pursuant to RCRA.
(B) Employers who are not required to have a permit or interim
status because they are conditionally exempt small quantity generators
under 40 CFR 261.5 or are generators who qualify under 40 CFR 262.34 for
exemptions from regulation under 40 CFR parts 264, 265 and 270
(``excepted employers'') are not covered by paragraphs (p)(1) through
(p)(7) of this section. Excepted employers who are required by the EPA
or state agency to have their employees engage in emergency response or
who direct their employees to engage in emergency response are covered
by paragraph (p)(8) of this section, and
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cannot be exempted by (p)(8)(i) of this section. Excepted employers who
are not required to have employees engage in emergency response, who
direct their employees to evacuate in the case of such emergencies and
who meet the requirements of paragraph (p)(8)(i) of this section are
exempt from the balance of paragraph (p)(8) of this section.
(C) If an area is used primarily for treatment, storage or disposal,
any emergency response operations in that area shall comply with
paragraph (p)(8) of this section. In other areas not used primarily for
treatment, storage, or disposal, any emergency response operations shall
comply with paragraph (q) of this section. Compliance with the
requirements of paragraph (q) of this section shall be deemed to be in
compliance with the requirements of paragraph (p)(8) of this section.
(iv) 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.
(3) Definitions--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.
Clean-up operation means an operation where hazardous substances are
removed, contained, incinerated, neutralized, stabilized, cleared-up, or
in any other manner processed or handled with the ultimate goal of
making the site safer for people or the environment.
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.
Emergency response or responding to emergencies means a response
effort by employees from outside the immediate release area or by other
designated responders (i.e., mutual-aid groups, local fire departments,
etc.) to an occurrence which results, or is likely to result, in an
uncontrolled release of a hazardous substance. 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.
Responses to releases of hazardous substances where there is no
potential safety or health hazard (i.e., fire, explosion, or chemical
exposure) are not considered to be emergency responses.
Facility means (A) any building, structure, installation, equipment,
pipe or pipeline (including any pipe into a sewer or publicly owned
treatment works), well, pit, pond, lagoon, impoundment, ditch, storage
container, motor vehicle, rolling stock, or aircraft, or (B) any site or
area where a hazardous substance has been deposited, stored, disposed
of, or placed, or otherwise come to be located; but does not include any
consumer product in consumer use or any water-borne vessel.
Hazardous materials response (HAZMAT) team means an organized group
of employees, designated by the employer, who are expected to perform
work to handle and control actual or potential leaks or spills of
hazardous substances requiring possible close approach to the substance.
The team members perform responses to releases or potential releases of
hazardous substances for the purpose of control or stabilization of the
incident. 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.
Hazardous substance means any substance designated or listed under
paragraphs (A) through (D) of this definition, exposure to which results
or may result in adverse affects on the health or safety of employees:
(A) Any substance defined under section 101(14) of CERCLA;
(B) Any biological agent and other disease-causing agent which after
release into the environment and upon exposure, ingestion, inhalation,
or assimilation into any person, either directly from the environment or
indirectly by ingestion through food chains, will or may reasonably be
anticipated to cause death, disease, behavioral abnormalities, cancer,
genetic
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mutation, physiological malfunctions (including malfunctions in
reproduction) or physical deformations in such persons or their
offspring;
(C) Any substance listed by the U.S. Department of Transportation as
hazardous materials under 49 CFR 172.101 and appendices; and
(D) Hazardous waste as herein defined.
Hazardous waste means--
(A) A waste or combination of wastes as defined in 40 CFR 261.3, or
(B) Those substances defined as hazardous wastes in 49 CFR 171.8.
Hazardous waste operation means any operation conducted within the
scope of this standard.
Hazardous waste site or Site means any facility or location within
the scope of this standard at which hazardous waste operations take
place.
Health hazard means a chemical, mixture of chemicals or a pathogen
for which there is statistically significant evidence based on at least
one study conducted in accordance with established scientific principles
that acute or chronic health effects may occur in exposed employees. The
term ``health hazard'' includes chemicals which are carcinogens, toxic
or highly toxic agents, reproductive toxins, irritants, corrosives,
sensitizers, heptaotoxins, nephrotoxins, neurotoxins, agents which act
on the hematopoietic system, and agents which damage the lungs, skin,
eyes, or mucous membranes. It also includes stress due to temperature
extremes. Further definition of the terms used above can be found in
appendix A to 29 CFR 1910.1200.
IDLH orImmediately 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.
Oxygen deficiency means that concentration of oxygen by volume below
which atmosphere supplying respiratory protection must be provided. It
exists in atmospheres where the percentage of oxygen by volume is less
than 19.5 percent oxygen.
Permissible exposure limit means the exposure, inhalation or dermal
permissible exposure limit specified in 29 CFR part 1910, subparts G and
Z.
Published exposure level means the exposure limits published in
``NIOSH Recommendations for Occupational Health Standards'' dated 1986,
which is incorporated by reference as specified in Sec. 1910.6 or if
none is specified, the exposure limits published in the standards
specified by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial
Hygienists in their publication ``Threshold Limit Values and Biological
Exposure Indices for 1987-88'' dated 1987, which is incorporated by
reference as specified in Sec. 1910.6.
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. If post emergency
response is performed by an employer's own employees who were part of
the initial emergency response, it is considered to be part of the
initial response and not post emergency response. However, if a group of
an employer's own employees, separate from the group providing initial
response, performs the clean-up operation, then the separate group of
employees would be considered to be performing post-emergency response
and subject to paragraph (q)(11) of this section.
Qualified person means a person with specific training, knowledge
and experience in the area for which the person has the responsibility
and the authority to control.
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.
Small quantity qenerator means a generator of hazardous wastes who
in any calendar month generates no more than 1,000 kilograms (2,205
pounds) of hazardous waste in that month.
Uncontrolled hazardous waste site, means an area identified as an
uncontrolled hazardous waste site by a governmental body, whether
Federal,
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state, local or other where an accumulation of hazardous substances
creates a threat to the health and safety of individuals or the
environment or both. Some sites are found on public lands such as those
created by former municipal, county or state landfills where illegal or
poorly managed waste disposal has taken place. Other sites are found on
private property, often belonging to generators or former generators of
hazardous substance wastes. Examples of such sites include, but are not
limited to, surface impoundments, landfills, dumps, and tank or drum
farms. Normal operations at TSD sites are not covered by this
definition.
(b) Safety and health program.
Note to (b): Safety and health programs developed and implemented to
meet other Federal, state, or local regulations are considered
acceptable in meeting this requirement if they cover or are modified to
cover the topics required in this paragraph. An additional or separate
safety and health program is not required by this paragraph.
(1) General. (i) Employers shall develop and implement a written
safety and health program for their employees involved in hazardous
waste operations. The program shall be designed to identify, evaluate,
and control safety and health hazards, and provide for emergency
response for hazardous waste operations.
(ii) The written safety and health program shall incorporate the
following:
(A) An organizational structure;
(B) A comprehensive workplan;
(C) A site-specific safety and health plan which need not repeat the
employer's standard operating procedures required in paragraph
(b)(1)(ii)(F) of this section;
(D) The safety and health training program;
(E) The medical surveillance program;
(F) The employer's standard operating procedures for safety and
health; and
(G) Any necessary interface between general program and site
specific activities.
(iii) Site excavation. Site excavations created during initial site
preparation or during hazardous waste operations shall be shored or
sloped as appropriate to prevent accidental collapse in accordance with
subpart P of 29 CFR part 1926.
(iv) Contractors and sub-contractors. An employer who retains
contractor or sub-contractor services for work in hazardous waste
operations shall inform those contractors, sub-contractors, or their
representatives of the site emergency response procedures and any
potential fire, explosion, health, safety or other hazards of the
hazardous waste operation that have been identified by the employer,
including those identified in the employer's information program.
(v) Program availability. The written safety and health program
shall be made available to any contractor or subcontractor or their
representative who will be involved with the hazardous waste operation;
to employees; to employee designated representatives; to OSHA personnel,
and to personnel of other Federal, state, or local agencies with
regulatory authority over the site.
(2) Organizational structure part of the site program--(i) The
organizationa1 structure part of the program shall establish the
specific chain of command and specify the overall responsibilities of
supervisors and employees. It shall include, at a minimum, the following
elements:
(A) A general supervisor who has the responsibility and authority to
direct all hazardous waste operations.
(B) A site safety and health supervisor who has the responsibility
and authority to develop and implement the site safety and health plan
and verify compliance.
(C) All other personnel needed for hazardous waste site operations
and emergency response and their general functions and responsibilities.
(D) The lines of authority, responsibility, and communication.
(ii) The organizational structure shall be reviewed and updated as
necessary to reflect the current status of waste site operations.
(3) Comprehensive workplan part of the site program. The
comprehensive workplan part of the program shall address the tasks and
objectives of the
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site operations and the logistics and resources required to reach those
tasks and objectives.
(i) The comprehensive workplan shall address anticipated clean-up
activities as well as normal operating procedures which need not repeat
the employer's procedures available elsewhere.
(ii) The comprehensive workplan shall define work tasks and
objectives and identify the methods for accomplishing those tasks and
objectives.
(iii) The comprehensive workplan shall establish personnel
requirements for implementing the plan.
(iv) The comprehensive workplan shall provide for the implementation
of the training required in paragraph (e) of this section.
(v) The comprehensive workplan shall provide for the implementation
of the required informational programs required in paragraph (i) of this
section.
(vi) The comprehensive workplan shall provide for the implementation
of the medical surveillance program described in paragraph (f) of this
section.
(4) Site-specific safety and health plan part of the program--(i)
General. 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 and include the requirements and procedures for employee
protection.
(ii) Elements. The site safety and health plan, as a minimum, shall
address the following:
(A) A safety and health risk or hazard analysis for each site task
and operation found in the workplan.
(B) Employee training assignments to assure compliance with
paragraph (e) of this section.
(C) Personal protective equipment to be used by employees for each
of the site tasks and operations being conducted as required by the
personal protective equipment program in paragraph (g)(5) of this
section.
(D) Medical surveillance requirements in accordance with the program
in paragraph (f) of this section.
(E) Frequency and types of air monitoring, personnel monitoring, and
environmental sampling techniques and instrumentation to be used,
including methods of maintenance and calibration of monitoring and
sampling equipment to be used.
(F) Site control measures in accordance with the site control
program required in paragraph (d) of this section.
(G) Decontamination procedures in accordance with paragraph (k) of
this section.
(H) An emergency response plan meeting the requirements of paragraph
(l) of this section for safe and effective responses to emergencies,
including the necessary PPE and other equipment.
(I) Confined space entry procedures.
(J) A spill containment program meeting the requirements of
paragraph (j) of this section.
(iii) Pre-entry briefing. The site specific safety and health plan
shall provide for pre-entry briefings to be held prior to initiating any
site activity, and at such other times as necessary to ensure that
employees are apprised of the site safety and health plan and that this
plan is being followed. The information and data obtained from site
characterization and analysis work required in paragraph (c) of this
section shall be used to prepare and update the site safety and health
plan.
(iv) Effectiveness of site safety and health plan. Inspections shall
be conducted by the site safety and health supervisor or, in the absence
of that individual, another individual who is knowledgeable in
occupational safety and health, acting on behalf of the employer as
necessary to determine the effectiveness of the site safety and health
plan. Any deficiencies in the effectiveness of the site safety and
health plan shall be corrected by the employer.
(c) Site characterization and analysis--(1) General. Hazardous waste
sites shall be evaluated in accordance with this paragraph to identify
specific site hazards and to determine the appropriate safety and health
control procedures needed to protect employees from the identified
hazards.
(2) Preliminary evaluation. 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. Immediately after initial site
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entry, a more detailed evaluation of the site's specific characteristics
shall be performed by a qualified person in order to further identify
existing site hazards and to further aid in the selection of the
appropriate engineering controls and personal protective equipment for
the tasks to be performed.
(3) Hazard identification. All suspected conditions that may pose
inhalation or skin absorption hazards that are immediately dangerous to
life or health (IDLH), or other conditions that may cause death or
serious harm, shall be identified during the preliminary survey and
evaluated during the detailed survey. Examples of such hazards include,
but are not limited to, confined space entry, potentially explosive or
flammable situations, visible vapor clouds, or areas where biological
indicators such as dead animals or vegetation are located.
(4) Required information. The following information to the extent
available shall be obtained by the employer prior to allowing employees
to enter a site:
(i) Location and approximate size of the site.
(ii) Description of the response activity and/or the job task to be
performed.
(iii) Duration of the planned employee activity.
(iv) Site topography and accessibility by air and roads.
(v) Safety and health hazards expected at the site.
(vi) Pathways for hazardous substance dispersion.
(vii) Present status and capabilities of emergency response teams
that would provide assistance to hazardous waste clean-up site employees
at the time of an emergency.
(viii) Hazardous substances and health hazards involved or expected
at the site, and their chemical and physical properties.
(5) Personal protective equipment. Personal protective equipment
(PPE) shall be provided and used during initial site entry in accordance
with the following requirements:
(i) Based upon the results of the preliminary site evaluation, an
ensemble of PPE shall be selected and used during initial site entry
which will provide protection to a level of exposure below permissible
exposure limits and published exposure levels for known or suspected
hazardous substances and health hazards, and which will provide
protection against other known and suspected hazards identified during
the preliminary site evaluation. If there is no permissible exposure
limit or published exposure level, the employer may use other published
studies and information as a guide to appropriate personal protective
equipment.
(ii) If positive-pressure self-contained breathing apparatus is not
used as part of the entry ensemble, and if respiratory protection is
warranted by the potential hazards identified during the preliminary
site evaluation, an escape self-contained breathing apparatus of at
least five minute's duration shall be carried by employees during
initial site entry.
(iii) If the preliminary site evaluation does not produce sufficient
information to identify the hazards or suspected hazards of the site, 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. (See appendix B for
a description of Level B hazards and the recommendations for Level B
protective equipment.)
(iv) Once the hazards of the site have been identified, the
appropriate PPE shall be selected and used in accordance with paragraph
(g) of this section.
(6) Monitoring. The following monitoring shall be conducted during
initial site entry when the site evaluation produces information that
shows the potential for ionizing radiation or IDLH conditions, or when
the site information is not sufficient reasonably to eliminate these
possible conditions:
(i) Monitoring with direct reading instruments for hazardous levels
of ionizing radiation.
(ii) Monitoring the air with appropriate direct reading test
equipment (i.e., combustible gas meters, detector tubes) for IDLH and
other conditions that may cause death or serious harm (combustible or
explosive atmospheres, oxygen deficiency, toxic substances).
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(iii) Visually observing for signs of actual or potential IDLH or
other dangerous conditions.
(iv) An ongoing air monitoring program in accordance with paragraph
(h) of this section shall be implemented after site characterization has
determined the site is safe for the start-up of operations.
(7) Risk identification. Once the presence and concentrations of
specific hazardous substances and health hazards have been established,
the risks associated with these substances shall be identified.
Employees who will be working on the site shall be informed of any risks
that have been identified. In situations covered by the Hazard
Communication Standard, 29 CFR 1910.1200, training required by that
standard need not be duplicated.
Note to paragraph (c)(7). Risks to consider include, but are not
limited to:
(a) Exposures exceeding the permissible exposure limits and
published exposure levels.
(b) IDLH concentrations.
(c) Potential skin absorption and irritation sources.
(d) Potential eye irritation sources.
(e) Explosion sensitivity and flammability ranges.
(f) Oxygen deficiency.
(8) Employee notification. Any information concerning the chemical,
physical, and toxicologic properties of each substance known or expected
to be present on site that is available to the employer and relevant to
the duties an employee is expected to perform shall be made available to
the affected employees prior to the commencement of their work
activities. The employer may utilize information developed for the
hazard communication standard for this purpose.
(d) Site control--(1) General. Appropriate site control procedures
shall be implemented to control employee exposure to hazardous
substances before clean-up work begins.
(2) Site control program. A site control program for protecting
employees which is part of the employer's site safety and health program
required in paragraph (b) of this section shall be developed during the
planning stages of a hazardous waste clean-up operation and modified as
necessary as new information becomes available.
(3) Elements of the site control program. 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. Where these
requirements are covered elsewhere they need not be repeated.
(e) Training--(1) General. (i) All employees working on site (such
as but not limited to equipment operators, general laborers and others)
exposed to hazardous substances, health hazards, or safety hazards and
their supervisors and management responsible for the site shall receive
training meeting the requirements of this paragraph before they are
permitted to engage in hazardous waste operations that could expose them
to hazardous substances, safety, or health hazards, and they shall
receive review training as specified in this paragraph.
(ii) 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.
(2) Elements to be covered. The training shall thoroughly cover the
following:
(i) Names of personnel and alternates responsible for site safety
and health;
(ii) Safety, health and other hazards present on the site;
(iii) Use of personal protective equipment;
(iv) Work practices by which the employee can minimize risks from
hazards;
(v) Safe use of engineering controls and equipment on the site;
(vi) Medical surveillance requirements, including recognition of
symptoms and signs which might indicate overexposure to hazards; and
(vii) The contents of paragraphs (G) through (J) of the site safety
and health plan set forth in paragraph (b)(4)(ii) of this section.
(3) Initial training. (i) General site workers (such as equipment
operators, general laborers and supervisory personnel) engaged in
hazardous substance removal or other activities which expose or
potentially expose workers to
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hazardous substances and health hazards 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.
(ii) Workers on site only occasionally for a specific limited task
(such as, but not limited to, ground water monitoring, land surveying,
or geo-physical surveying) and who are unlikely to be exposed over
permissible exposure limits and published exposure limits shall receive
a minimum of 24 hours of instruction off the site, and the minimum of
one day actual field experience under the direct supervision of a
trained, experienced supervisor.
(iii) Workers regularly on site who work in areas which have been
monitored and fully characterized indicating that exposures are under
permissible exposure limits and published exposure limits where
respirators are not necessary, and the characterization indicates that
there are no health hazards or the possibility of an emergency
developing, shall receive a minimum of 24 hours of instruction off the
site and the minimum of one day actual field experience under the direct
supervision of a trained, experienced supervisor.
(iv) Workers with 24 hours of training who are covered by paragraphs
(e)(3)(ii) and (e)(3)(iii) of this section, and who become general site
workers or who are required to wear respirators, shall have the
additional 16 hours and two days of training necessary to total the
training specified in paragraph (e)(3)(i).
(4) Management and supervisor training. On-site management and
supervisors directly responsible for, or who supervise employees engaged
in, hazardous waste operations shall receive 40 hours initial training,
and three days of supervised field experience (the training may be
reduced to 24 hours and one day if the only area of their responsibility
is employees covered by paragraphs (e)(3)(ii) and (e)(3)(iii)) and at
least eight additional hours of specialized training at the time of job
assignment on such topics as, but not limited to, the employer's safety
and health program and the associated employee training program,
personal protective equipment program, spill containment program, and
health hazard monitoring procedure and techniques.
(5) Qualifications for trainers. Trainers shall be qualified to
instruct employees about the subject matter that is being presented in
training. Such trainers shall have satisfactorily completed a training
program for teaching the subjects they are expected to teach, or they
shall have the academic credentials and instructional experience
necessary for teaching the subjects. Instructors shall demonstrate
competent instructional skills and knowledge of the applicable subject
matter.
(6) Training certification. Employees and supervisors that have
received and successfully completed the training and field experience
specified in paragraphs (e)(1) through (e)(4) of this section shall be
certified by their instructor or the head instructor and trained
supervisor as having successfully completed the necessary training. A
written certificate shall be given to each person so certified. Any
person who has not been so certified or who does not meet the
requirements of paragraph (e)(9) of this section shall be prohibited
from engaging in hazardous waste operations.
(7) Emergency response. Employees who are engaged in responding to
hazardous emergency situations at hazardous waste clean-up sites that
may expose them to hazardous substances shall be trained in how to
respond to such expected emergencies.
(8) Refresher training. Employees specified in paragraph (e)(1) of
this section, and managers and supervisors specified in paragraph (e)(4)
of this section, 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 that can serve as training examples of related work, and other
relevant topics.
(9) Equivalent training. Employers who can show by documentation or
certification that an employee's work experience and/or training has
resulted in training equivalent to that training required in paragraphs
(e)(1) through (e)(4) of this section shall not be required to provide
the initial training requirements of those paragraphs to such employees
and shall provide a
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copy of the certification or documentation to the employee upon request.
However, 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.
Equivalent training includes any academic training or the training that
existing employees might have already received from actual hazardous
waste site work experience.
(f) Medical surveillance--(1) General. Employers engaged in
operations specified in paragraphs (a)(1)(i) through (a)(1)(iv) of this
section and not covered by (a)(2)(iii) exceptions and employers of
employees specified in paragraph (q)(9) shall institute a medical
surveillance program in accordance with this paragraph.
(2) Employees covered. The medical surveillance program shall be
instituted by the employer for the following employees:
(i) All employees who are or may be exposed to hazardous substances
or health hazards at or above the permissible exposure limits or, if
there is no permissible exposure limit, above the published exposure
levels for these substances, without regard to the use of respirators,
for 30 days or more a year;
(ii) All employees who wear a respirator for 30 days or more a year
or as required by Sec. 1910.134;
(iii) All employees who are injured, become ill or develop signs or
symptoms due to possible overexposure involving hazardous substances or
health hazards from an emergency response or hazardous waste operation;
and
(iv) Members of HAZMAT teams.
(3) Frequency of medical examinations and consultations. Medical
examinations and consultations shall be made available by the employer
to each employee covered under paragraph (f)(2) of this section on the
following schedules:
(i) For employees covered under paragraphs (f)(2)(i), (f)(2)(ii),
and (f)(2)(iv):
(A) Prior to assignment;
(B) At least once every twelve months for each employee covered
unless the attending physician believes a longer interval (not greater
than biennially) is appropriate;
(C) 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;
(D) As soon as possible upon notification by an employee that the
employee has developed signs or symptoms indicating possible
overexposure to hazardous substances or health hazards, or that the
employee has been injured or exposed above the permissible exposure
limits or published exposure levels in an emergency situation;
(E) At more frequent times, if the examining physician determines
that an increased frequency of examination is medically necessary.
(ii) For employees covered under paragraph (f)(2)(iii) and for all
employees including those of employers covered by paragraph (a)(1)(v)
who may have been injured, received a health impairment, developed signs
or symptoms which may have resulted from exposure to hazardous
substances resulting from an emergency incident, or exposed during an
emergency incident to hazardous substances at concentrations above the
permissible exposure limits or the published exposure levels without the
necessary personal protective equipment being used:
(A) As soon as possible following the emergency incident or
development of signs or symptoms;
(B) At additional times, if the examining physician determines that
follow-up examinations or consultations are medically necessary.
(4) Content of medical examinations and consultations. (i) Medical
examinations required by paragraph (f)(3) of this section shall include
a medical and work history (or updated history if one is in the
employee's file) with special emphasis on symptoms related to the
handling of hazardous substances and health hazards, and to fitness for
duty including the ability to wear any required PPE under conditions
(i.e., temperature extremes) that may be expected at the work site.
(ii) The content of medical examinations or consultations made
available to employees pursuant to paragraph (f) shall be determined by
the attending physician. The guidelines in the Occupational Safety and
Health Guidance
[[Page 377]]
Manual for Hazardous Waste Site Activities (See appendix D, Reference
10) should be consulted.
(5) Examination by a physician and costs. All medical examinations
and procedures shall be performed by or under the supervision of a
licensed physician, preferably one knowledgeable in occupational
medicine, and shall be provided without cost to the employee, without
loss of pay, and at a reasonable time and place.
(6) Information provided to the physician. The employer shall
provide one copy of this standard and its appendices to the attending
physician, and in addition the following for each employee:
(i) A description of the employee's duties as they relate to the
employee's exposures.
(ii) The employee's exposure levels or anticipated exposure levels.
(iii) A description of any personal protective equipment used or to
be used.
(iv) Information from previous medical examinations of the employee
which is not readily available to the examining physician.
(v) Information required by Sec. 1910.134.
(7) Physician's written opinion. (i) The employer shall obtain and
furnish the employee with a copy of a written opinion from the attending
physician containing the following:
(A) The physician's opinion as to whether the employee has any
detected medical conditions which would place the employee at increased
risk of material impairment of the employee's health from work in
hazardous waste operations or emergency response, or from respirator
use.
(B) The physician's recommended limitations upon the employee's
assigned work.
(C) The results of the medical examination and tests if requested by
the employee.
(D) A statement that the employee has been informed by the physician
of the results of the medical examination and any medical conditions
which require further examination or treatment.
(ii) The written opinion obtained by the employer shall not reveal
specific findings or diagnoses unrelated to occupational exposures.
(8) Recordkeeping. (i) An accurate record of the medical
surveillance required by paragraph (f) of this section shall be
retained. This record shall be retained for the period specified and
meet the criteria of 29 CFR 1910.1020.
(ii) The record required in paragraph (f)(8)(i) of this section
shall include at least the following information:
(A) The name and social security number of the employee;
(B) Physician's written opinions, recommended limitations, and
results of examinations and tests;
(C) Any employee medical complaints related to exposure to hazardous
substances;
(D) A copy of the information provided to the examining physician by
the employer, with the exception of the standard and its appendices.
(g) Engineering controls, work practices, and personal protective
equipment for employee protection. Engineering controls, work practices,
personal protective equipment, or a combination of these shall be
implemented in accordance with this paragraph to protect employees from
exposure to hazardous substances and safety and health hazards.
(1) Engineering controls, work practices and PPE for substances
regulated in subparts G and Z. (i) Engineering controls and work
practices shall be instituted to reduce and maintain employee exposure
to or below the permissible exposure limits for substances regulated by
29 CFR part 1910, to the extent required by subpart Z, except to the
extent that such controls and practices are not feasible.
Note to paragraph (g)(1)(i): Engineering controls which may be
feasible include the use of pressurized cabs or control booths on
equipment, and/or the use of remotely operated material handling
equipment. Work practices which may be feasible are removing all non-
essential employees from potential exposure during opening of drums,
wetting down dusty operations and locating employees upwind of possible
hazards.
(ii) Whenever engineering controls and work practices are not
feasible or not required, any reasonable combination of engineering
controls, work
[[Page 378]]
practices and PPE shall be used to reduce and maintain employee
exposures to or below the permissible exposure limits or dose limits for
substances regulated by 29 CFR part 1910, subpart Z.
(iii) 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.
(iv) The provisions of 29 CFR, subpart G, shall be followed.
(2) Engineering controls, work practices, and PPE for substances not
regulated in subparts G and Z. An appropriate combination of engineering
controls, work practices and personal protective equipment shall be used
to reduce and maintain employee exposure to or below published exposure
levels for hazardous substances and health hazards not regulated by 29
CFR part 1910, subparts G and Z. The employer may use the published
literature and MSDS as a guide in making the employer's determination as
to what level of protection the employer believes is appropriate for
hazardous substances and health hazards for which there is no
permissible exposure limit or published exposure limit.
(3) Personal protective equipment selection. (i) Personal protective
equipment (PPE) shall be selected and used which will protect employees
from the hazards and potential hazards they are likely to encounter as
identified during the site characterization and analysis.
(ii) Personal protective equipment selection shall be based on an
evaluation of the performance characteristics of the PPE relative to the
requirements and limitations of the site, the task-specific conditions
and duration, and the hazards and potential hazards identified at the
site.
(iii) 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.
(iv) 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, immediate
serious illness or injury, or impair the ability to escape.
(v) The level of protection provided by PPE selection shall be
increased when additional information on site conditions indicates that
increased protection is necessary to reduce employee exposures below
permissible exposure limits and published exposure levels for hazardous
substances and health hazards. (See appendix B for guidance on selecting
PPE ensembles.)
Note to paragraph (g)(3): The level of employee protection provided
may be decreased when additional information or site conditions show
that decreased protection will not result in hazardous exposures to
employees.
(vi) Personal protective equipment shall be selected and used to
meet the requirements of 29 CFR part 1910, subpart I, and additional
requirements specified in this section.
(4) Totally-encapsulating chemical protective suits. (i) Totally-
encapsulating suits shall protect employees from the particular hazards
which are identified during site characterization and analysis.
(ii) Totally-encapsulating suits shall be capable of maintaining
positive air pressure. (See appendix A for a test method which may be
used to evaluate this requirement.)
(iii) Totally-encapsulating suits shall be capable of preventing
inward test gas leakage of more than 0.5 percent. (See appendix A for a
test method which may be used to evaluate this requirement.)
(5) Personal protective equipment (PPE) program. A written personal
protective equipment program, which is part of the employer's safety and
health program required in paragraph (b) of this section or required in
paragraph (p)(1) of this section and which is also a part of the site-
specific safety and health plan shall be established. The PPE program
shall address the elements listed below. When elements, such as donning
and doffing procedures, are provided by
[[Page 379]]
the manufacturer of a piece of equipment and are attached to the plan,
they need not be rewritten into the plan as long as they adequately
address the procedure or element.
(i) PPE selection based upon site hazards,
(ii) PPE use and limitations of the equipment,
(iii) Work mission duration,
(iv) PPE maintenance and storage,
(v) PPE decontamination and disposal,
(vi) PPE training and proper fitting,
(vii) PPE donning and doffing procedures,
(viii) PPE inspection procedures prior to, during, and after use,
(ix) Evaluation of the effectiveness of the PPE program, and
(x) Limitations during temperature extremes, heat stress, and other
appropriate medical considerations.
(h) Monitoring--(1) General. (i) Monitoring shall be performed in
accordance with this paragraph where there may be a question of employee
exposure to hazardous concentrations of hazardous substances in order to
assure proper selection of engineering controls, work practices and
personal protective equipment so that employees are not exposed to
levels which exceed permissible exposure limits, or published exposure
levels if there are no permissible exposure limits, for hazardous
substances.
(ii) Air monitoring shall be used to identify and quantify airborne
levels of hazardous substances and safety and health hazards in order to
determine the appropriate level of employee protection needed on site.
(2) Initial entry. Upon initial entry, representative air monitoring
shall be conducted to identify any IDLH condition, exposure over
permissible exposure limits or published exposure levels, exposure over
a radioactive material's dose limits or other dangerous condition such
as the presence of flammable atmospheres or oxygen-deficient
environments.
(3) Periodic monitoring. Periodic monitoring shall be conducted when
the possibility of an IDLH condition or flammable atmosphere has
developed or when there is indication that exposures may have risen over
permissible exposure limits or published exposure levels since prior
monitoring. Situations where it shall be considered whether the
possibility that exposures have risen are as follows:
(i) When work begins on a different portion of the site.
(ii) When contaminants other than those previously identified are
being handled.
(iii) When a different type of operation is initiated (e.g., drum
opening as opposed to exploratory well drilling).
(iv) When employees are handling leaking drums or containers or
working in areas with obvious liquid contamination (e.g., a spill or
lagoon).
(4) Monitoring of high-risk employees. After the actual clean-up
phase of any hazardous waste operation commences; for example, when
soil, surface water or containers are moved or disturbed; the employer
shall monitor those employees likely to have the highest exposures to
hazardous substances and health hazards likely to be present above
permissible exposure limits or published exposure levels by using
personal sampling frequently enough to characterize employee exposures.
If the employees likely to have the highest exposure are over
permissible exposure limits or published exposure limits, then
monitoring shall continue to determine all employees likely to be above
those limits. The employer may utilize a representative sampling
approach by documenting that the employees and chemicals chosen for
monitoring are based on the criteria stated above.
Note to paragraph (h): It is not required to monitor employees
engaged in site characterization operations covered by paragraph (c) of
this section.
(i) Informational programs. Employers shall develop and implement a
program, which is part of the employer's safety and health program
required in paragraph (b) of this section, to inform employees,
contractors, and subcontractors (or their representative) actually
engaged in hazardous waste operations of the nature, level and degree of
exposure likely as a result of participation in such hazardous waste
operations. Employees, contractors and subcontractors working outside of
the
[[Page 380]]
operations part of a site are not covered by this standard.
(j) Handling drums and containers--(1) General. (i) Hazardous
substances and contaminated soils, liquids, and other residues shall be
handled, transported, labeled, and disposed of in accordance with this
paragraph.
(ii) Drums and containers used during the clean-up shall meet the
appropriate DOT, OSHA, and EPA regulations for the wastes that they
contain.
(iii) When practical, drums and containers shall be inspected and
their integrity shall be assured prior to being moved. Drums or
containers that cannot be inspected before being moved because of
storage conditions (i.e., buried beneath the earth, stacked behind other
drums, stacked several tiers high in a pile, etc.) shall be moved to an
accessible location and inspected prior to further handling.
(iv) Unlabelled drums and containers shall be considered to contain
hazardous substances and handled accordingly until the contents are
positively identified and labeled.
(v) Site operations shall be organized to minimize the amount of
drum or container movement.
(vi) Prior to movement of drums or containers, all employees exposed
to the transfer operation shall be warned of the potential hazards
associated with the contents of the drums or containers.
(vii) U.S. Department of Transportation specified salvage drums or
containers and suitable quantities of proper absorbent shall be kept
available and used in areas where spills, leaks, or ruptures may occur.
(viii) Where major spills may occur, a spill containment program,
which is part of the employer's safety and health program required in
paragraph (b) of this section, shall be implemented to contain and
isolate the entire volume of the hazardous substance being transferred.
(ix) Drums and containers that cannot be moved without rupture,
leakage, or spillage shall be emptied into a sound container using a
device classified for the material being transferred.
(x) 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.
(xi) Soil or covering material shall be removed with caution to
prevent drum or container rupture.
(xii) Fire extinguishing equipment meeting the requirements of 29
CFR part 1910, subpart L, shall be on hand and ready for use to control
incipient fires.
(2) Opening drums and containers. The following procedures shall be
followed in areas where drums or containers are being opened:
(i) Where an airline respirator system is used, connections to the
source of air supply shall be protected from contamination and the
entire system shall be protected from physical damage.
(ii) Employees not actually involved in opening drums or containers
shall be kept a safe distance from the drums or containers being opened.
(iii) If employees must work near or adjacent to drums or containers
being opened, a suitable shield that does not interfere with the work
operation shall be placed between the employee and the drums or
containers being opened to protect the employee in case of accidental
explosion.
(iv) Controls for drum or container opening equipment, monitoring
equipment, and fire suppression equipment shall be located behind the
explosion-resistant barrier.
(v) When there is a reasonable possibility of flammable atmospheres
being present, material handling equipment and hand tools shall be of
the type to prevent sources of ignition.
(vi) Drums and containers shall be opened in such a manner that
excess interior pressure will be safely relieved. If pressure can not be
relieved from a remote location, appropriate shielding shall be placed
between the employee and the drums or containers to reduce the risk of
employee injury.
(vii) Employees shall not stand upon or work from drums or
containers.
(3) Material handling equipment. Material handiing equipment used to
transfer drums and containers shall be selected, positioned and operated
to minimize sources of ignition related to the equipment from igniting
vapors released from ruptured drums or containers.
[[Page 381]]
(4) Radioactive wastes. Drums and containers containing radioactive
wastes shall not be handled until such time as their hazard to employees
is properly assessed.
(5) Shock sensitive wastes. As a minimum, the following special
precautions shall be taken when drums and containers containing or
suspected of containing shock-sensitive wastes are handled:
(i) All non-essential employees shall be evacuated from the area of
transfer.
(ii) Material handling equipment shall be provided with explosive
containment devices or protective shields to protect equipment operators
from exploding containers.
(iii) An employee alarm system capable of being perceived above
surrounding light and noise conditions shall be used to signal the
commencement and completion of explosive waste handling activities.
(iv) Continuous communications (i.e., portable radios, hand signals,
telephones, as appropriate) shall be maintained between the employee-in-
charge of the immediate handling area and both the site safety and
health supervisor and the command post until such time as the handling
operation is completed. Communication equipment or methods that could
cause shock sensitive materials to explode shall not be used.
(v) 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 and appropriate containment procedures have been
implemented to protect employees from explosive relief of the drum.
(vi) Drums and containers containing packaged laboratory wastes
shall be considered to contain shock-sensitive or explosive materials
until they have been characterized.
Caution: Shipping of shock sensitive wastes may be prohibited under
U.S. Department of Transportation regulations. Employers and their
shippers should refer to 49 CFR 173.21 and 173.50.
(6) Laboratory waste packs. In addition to the requirements of
paragraph (j)(5) of this section, the following precautions shall be
taken, as a minimum, in handling laboratory waste packs (lab packs):
(i) Lab packs shall be opened only when necessary and then only by
an individual knowledgeable in the inspection, classification, and
segregation of the containers within the pack according to the hazards
of the wastes.
(ii) If crystalline material is noted on any container, the contents
shall be handled as a shock-sensitive waste until the contents are
identified.
(7) Sampling of drum and container contents. Sampling of containers
and drums shall be done in accordance with a sampling procedure which is
part of the site safety and health plan developed for and available to
employees and others at the specific worksite.
(8) Shipping and transport. (i) Drums and containers shall be
identified and classified prior to packaging for shipment.
(ii) Drum or container staging areas shall be kept to the minimum
number necessary to identify and classify materials safely and prepare
them for transport.
(iii) Staging areas shall be provided with adequate access and
egress routes.
(iv) Bulking of hazardous wastes shall be permitted only after a
thorough characterization of the materials has been completed.
(9) Tank and vault procedures. (i) Tanks and vaults containing
hazardous substances shall be handled in a manner similar to that for
drums and containers, taking into consideration the size of the tank or
vault.
(ii) Appropriate tank or vault entry procedures as described in the
employer's safety and health plan shall be followed whenever employees
must enter a tank or vault.
(k) Decontamination--(1) General. Procedures for all phases of
decontamination shall be developed and implemented in accordance with
this paragraph.
(2) Decontamination procedures. (i) 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.
[[Page 382]]
(ii) Standard operating procedures shall be developed to minimize
employee contact with hazardous substances or with equipment that has
contacted hazardous substances.
(iii) All employees leaving a contaminated area shall be
appropriately decontaminated; all contaminated clothing and equipment
leaving a contaminated area shall be appropriately disposed of or
decontaminated.
(iv) Decontamination procedures shall be monitored by the site
safety and health supervisor to determine their effectiveness. When such
procedures are found to be ineffective, appropriate steps shall be taken
to correct any deficiencies.
(3) Location. Decontamination shall be performed in geographical
areas that will minimize the exposure of uncontaminated employees or
equipment to contaminated employees or equipment.
(4) Equipment and solvents. All equipment and solvents used for
decontamination shall be decontaminated or disposed of properly.
(5) Personal protective clothing and equipment. (i) Protective
clothing and equipment shall be decontaminated, cleaned, laundered,
maintained or replaced as needed to maintain their effectiveness.
(ii) Employees whose non-impermeable clothing becomes wetted with
hazardous substances shall immediately remove that clothing and proceed
to shower. The clothing shall be disposed of or decontaminated before it
is removed from the work zone.
(6) Unauthorized employees. Unauthorized employees shall not remove
protective clothing or equipment from change rooms.
(7) Commercial laundries or cleaning establishments. Commercial
laundries or cleaning establishments that decontaminate protective
clothing or equipment shall be informed of the potentially harmful
effects of exposures to hazardous substances.
(8) Showers and change rooms. Where the decontamination procedure
indicates a need for regular showers and change rooms outside of a
contaminated area, they shall be provided and meet the requirements of
29 CFR 1910.141. If temperature conditions prevent the effective use of
water, then other effective means for cleansing shall be provided and
used.
(l) Emergency response by employees at uncontrolled hazardous waste
sites--(1) Emergency response plan. (i) An emergency response plan shall
be developed and implemented by all employers within the scope of
paragraphs (a)(1) (i)-(ii) of this section to handle anticipated
emergencies prior to the commencement of hazardous waste operations. The
plan shall be in writing and available for inspection and copying by
employees, their representatives, OSHA personnel and other governmental
agencies with relevant responsibilities.
(ii) Employers who will evacuate their employees from the danger
area when an emergency occurs, and who do not permit any of their
employees to assist in handling the emergency, are exempt from the
requirements of this paragraph if they provide an emergency action plan
complying with 29 CFR 1910.38.
(2) Elements of an emergency response plan. The employer shall
develop an emergency response plan for emergencies which shall address,
as a minimum, the following:
(i) Pre-emergency planning.
(ii) Personnel roles, lines of authority, and communication.
(iii) Emergency recognition and prevention.
(iv) Safe distances and places of refuge.
(v) Site security and control.
(vi) Evacuation routes and procedures.
(vii) Decontamination procedures which are not covered by the site
safety and health plan.
(viii) Emergency medical treatment and first aid.
(ix) Emergency alerting and response procedures.
(x) Critique of response and follow-up.
(xi) PPE and emergency equipment.
(3) Procedures for handling emergency incidents. (i) In addition to
the elements for the emergency response plan required in paragraph
(l)(2) of this section, the following elements shall be included for
emergency response plans:
[[Page 383]]
(A) Site topography, layout, and prevailing weather conditions.
(B) Procedures for reporting incidents to local, state, and federal
governmental agencies.
(ii) The emergency response plan shall be a separate section of the
Site Safety and Health Plan.
(iii) The emergency response plan shall be compatible and integrated
with the disaster, fire and/or emergency response plans of local, state,
and federal agencies.
(iv) The emergency response plan shall be rehearsed regularly as
part of the overall training program for site operations.
(v) The site emergency response plan shall be reviewed periodically
and, as necessary, be amended to keep it current with new or changing
site conditions or information.
(vi) An employee alarm system shall be installed in accordance with
29 CFR 1910.165 to notify employees of an emergency situation; to stop
work activities if necessary; to lower background noise in order to
speed communication; and to begin emergency procedures.
(vii) Based upon the information available at time of the emergency,
the employer shall evaluate the incident and the site response
capabilities and proceed with the appropriate steps to implement the
site emergency response plan.
(m) Illumination. Areas accessible to employees shall be lighted to
not less than the minimum illumination intensities listed in the
following Table H-120.1 while any work is in progress:
Table H-120.1--Minimum Illumination Intensities in Foot-Candles
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Foot-candles Area or operations
------------------------------------------------------------------------
5...................................... General site areas.
3...................................... Excavation and waste areas,
accessways, active storage
areas, loading platforms,
refueling, and field
maintenance areas.
5...................................... Indoors: Warehouses, corridors,
hallways, and exitways.
5...................................... Tunnels, shafts, and general
underground work areas.
(Exception: Minimum of 10 foot-
candles is required at tunnel
and shaft heading during
drilling mucking, and scaling.
Mine Safety and Health
Administration approved cap
lights shall be acceptable for
use in the tunnel heading.)
10..................................... General shops (e.g., mechanical
and electrical equipment
rooms, active storerooms,
barracks or living quarters,
locker or dressing rooms,
dining areas, and indoor
toilets and workrooms.)
30..................................... First aid stations,
infirmaries, and offices.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(n) Sanitation at temporary workplaces--(1) Potable water. (i) An
adequate supply of potable water shall be provided on the site.
(ii) Portable containers used to dispense drinking water shall be
capable of being tightly closed, and equipped with a tap. Water shall
not be dipped from containers.
(iii) Any container used to distribute drinking water shall be
clearly marked as to the nature of its contents and not used for any
other purpose.
(iv) Where single service cups (to be used but once) are supplied,
both a sanitary container for the unused cups and a receptacle for
disposing of the used cups shall be provided.
(2) Nonpotable water. (i) Outlets for nonpotable water, such as
water for firefighting purposes, shall be identified to indicate clearly
that the water is unsafe and is not to be used for drinking, washing, or
cooking purposes.
(ii) There shall be no cross-connection, open or potential, between
a system furnishing potable water and a system furnishing nonpotable
water.
(3) Toilet facilities. (i) Toilets shall be provided for employees
according to the following Table H-120.2.
Table H-120.2--Toilet Facilities
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Number of employees Minimum number of facilities
------------------------------------------------------------------------
20 or fewer............................... One.
More than 20, fewer than 200.............. One toilet seat and one
urinal per 40 employees.
More than 200............................. One toilet seat and one
urinal per 50 employees.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(ii) Under temporary field conditions, provisions shall be made to
assure that at least one toilet facility is available.
(iii) Hazardous waste sites not provided with a sanitary sewer shall
be provided with the following toilet facilities unless prohibited by
local codes:
[[Page 384]]
(A) Chemical toilets;
(B) Recirculating toilets;
(C) Combustion toilets; or
(D) Flush toilets.
(iv) The requirements of this paragraph for sanitation facilities
shall not apply to mobile crews having transportation readily available
to nearby toilet facilities.
(v) Doors entering toilet facilities shall be provided with entrance
locks controlled from inside the facility.
(4) Food handling. All food service facilities and operations for
employees shall meet the applicable laws, ordinances, and regulations of
the jurisdictions in which they are located.
(5) Temporary sleeping quarters. When temporary sleeping quarters
are provided, they shall be heated, ventilated, and lighted.
(6) Washing facilities. The employer shall provide adequate washing
facilities for employees engaged in operations where hazardous
substances may be harmful to employees. Such facilities shall be in near
proximity to the worksite; in areas where exposures are below
permissible exposure limits and published exposure levels and which are
under the controls of the employer; and shall be so equipped as to
enable employees to remove hazardous substances from themselves.
(7) Showers and change rooms. When hazardous waste clean-up or
removal operations commence on a site and the duration of the work will
require six months or greater time to complete, the employer shall
provide showers and change rooms for all employees exposed to hazardous
substances and health hazards involved in hazardous waste clean-up or
removal operations.
(i) Showers shall be provided and shall meet the requirements of 29
CFR 1910.141(d)(3).
(ii) Change rooms shall be provided and shall meet the requirements
of 29 CFR 1910.141(e). Change rooms shall consist of two separate change
areas separated by the shower area required in paragraph (n)(7)(i) of
this section. One change area, with an exit leading off the worksite,
shall provide employees with a clean area where they can remove, store,
and put on street clothing. The second area, with an exit to the
worksite, shall provide employees with an area where they can put on,
remove and store work clothing and personal protective equipment.
(iii) Showers and change rooms shall be located in areas where
exposures are below the permissible exposure limits and published
exposure levels. If this cannot be accomplished, then a ventilation
system shall be provided that will supply air that is below the
permissible exposure limits and published exposure levels.
(iv) Employers shall assure that employees shower at the end of
their work shift and when leaving the hazardous waste site.
(o) New technology programs. (1) The employer shall develop and
implement procedures for the introduction of effective new technologies
and equipment developed for the improved protection of employees working
with hazardous waste clean-up operations, and the same shall be
implemented as part of the site safety and health program to assure that
employee protection is being maintained.
(2) New technologies, equipment or control measures available to the
industry, such as the use of foams, absorbents, adsorbents,
neutralizers, or other means to suppress the level of air contaminates
while excavating the site or for spill control, shall be evaluated by
employers or their representatives. Such an evaluation shall be done to
determine the effectiveness of the new methods, materials, or equipment
before implementing their use on a large scale for enhancing employee
protection. Information and data from manufacturers or suppliers may be
used as part of the employer's evaluation effort. Such evaluations shall
be made available to OSHA upon request.
(p) Certain Operations Conducted Under the Resource Conservation and
Recovery Act of 1976 (RCRA). Employers conducting operations at
treatment, storage and disposal (TSD) facilities specified in paragraph
(a)(1)(iv) of this section shall provide and implement the programs
specified in this paragraph. See the ``Notes and Exceptions'' to
paragraph (a)(2)(iii) of this section for employers not covered.)''.
(1) Safety and health program. The employer shall develop and
implement a written safety and health program for
[[Page 385]]
employees involved in hazardous waste operations that shall be available
for inspection by employees, their representatives and OSHA personnel.
The program shall be designed to identify, evaluate and control safety
and health hazards in their facilities for the purpose of employee
protection, to provide for emergency response meeting the requirements
of paragraph (p)(8) of this section and to address as appropriate site
analysis, engineering controls, maximum exposure limits, hazardous waste
handling procedures and uses of new technologies.
(2) Hazard communication program. The employer shall implement a
hazard communication program meeting the requirements of 29 CFR
1910.1200 as part of the employer's safety and program.
Note to Sec. 1910.120: The exemption for hazardous waste provided
in Sec. 1910.1200 is applicable to this section.
(3) Medical surveillance program. The employer shall develop and
implement a medical surveillance program meeting the requirements of
paragraph (f) of this section.
(4) Decontamination program. The employer shall develop and
implement a decontamination procedure meeting the requirements of
paragraph (k) of this section.
(5) New technology program. The employer shall develop and implement
procedures meeting the requirements of paragraph (o) of this section for
introducing new and innovative equipment into the workplace.
(6) Material handling program. Where employees will be handling
drums or containers, the employer shall develop and implement procedures
meeting the requirements of paragraphs (j)(1) (ii) through (viii) and
(xi) of this section, as well as (j)(3) and (j)(8) of this section prior
to starting such work.
(7) Training program--(i) New employees. The employer shall develop
and implement a training program, which is part of the employer's safety
and health program, for employees exposed to health hazards or hazardous
substances at TSD operations to enable the employees to perform their
assigned duties and functions in a safe and healthful manner so as not
endanger themselves or other employees. The initial training shall be
for 24 hours and refresher training shall be for eight hours annually.
Employees who have received the initial training required by this
paragraph shall be given a written certificate attesting that they have
successfully completed the necessary training.
(ii) Current employees. Employers who can show by an employee's
previous work experience and/or training that the employee has had
training equivalent to the initial training required by this paragraph,
shall be considered as meeting the initial training requirements of this
paragraph as to that employee. Equivalent training includes the training
that existing employees might have already received from actual site
work experience. Current employees shall receive eight hours of
refresher training annually.
(iii) Trainers. Trainers who teach initial training shall have
satisfactorily completed a training course for teaching the subjects
they are expected to teach or they shall have the academic credentials
and instruction experience necessary to demonstrate a good command of
the subject matter of the courses and competent instructional skills.
(8) Emergency response program--(i) Emergency response plan. An
emergency response plan shall be developed and implemented by all
employers. Such plans need not duplicate any of the subjects fully
addressed in the employer's contingency planning required by permits,
such as those issued by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
provided that the contingency plan is made part of the emergency
response plan. The emergency response plan shall be a written portion of
the employer's safety and health program required in paragraph (p)(1) of
this section. Employers who will evacuate their employees from the
worksite location when an emergency occurs and who do not permit any of
their employees to assist in handling the emergency are exempt from the
requirements of paragraph (p)(8) if they provide an emergency action
plan complying with 29 CFR 1910.38.
(ii) Elements of an emergency response plan. The employer shall
develop an
[[Page 386]]
emergency response plan for emergencies which shall address, as a
minimum, the following areas to the extent that they are not addressed
in any specific program required in this paragraph:
(A) Pre-emergency planning and coordination with outside parties.
(B) Personnel roles, lines of authority, and communication.
(C) Emergency recognition and prevention.
(D) Safe distances and places of refuge.
(E) Site security and control.
(F) Evacuation routes and procedures.
(G) Decontamination procedures.
(H) Emergency medical treatment and first aid.
(I) Emergency alerting and response procedures.
(J) Critique of response and follow-up.
(K) PPE and emergency equipment.
(iii) Training. (A) Training for emergency response employees shall
be completed before they are called upon to perform in real emergencies.
Such training shall include the elements of the emergency response plan,
standard operating procedures the employer has established for the job,
the personal protective equipment to be worn and procedures for handling
emergency incidents.
Exception #1: An employer need not train all employees to the degree
specified if the employer divides the work force in a manner such that a
sufficient number of employees who have responsibility to control
emergencies have the training specified, and all other employees, who
may first respond to an emergency incident, have sufficient awareness
training to recognize that an emergency response situation exists and
that they are instructed in that case to summon the fully trained
employees and not attempt control activities for which they are not
trained.
Exception #2: An employer need not train all employees to the degree
specified if arrangements have been made in advance for an outside
fully-trained emergency response team to respond in a reasonable period
and all employees, who may come to the incident first, have sufficient
awareness training to recognize that an emergency response situation
exists and they have been instructed to call the designated outside
fully-trained emergency response team for assistance.
(B) Employee members of TSD facility emergency response
organizations shall be trained to a level of competence in the
recognition of health and safety hazards to protect themselves and other
employees. This would include training in the methods used to minimize
the risk from safety and health hazards; in the safe use of control
equipment; in the selection and use of appropriate personal protective
equipment; in the safe operating procedures to be used at the incident
scene; in the techniques of coordination with other employees to
minimize risks; in the appropriate response to over exposure from health
hazards or injury to themselves and other employees; and in the
recognition of subsequent symptoms which may result from over exposures.
(C) The employer shall certify that each covered employee has
attended and successfully completed the training required in paragraph
(p)(8)(iii) of this section, or shall certify the employee's competency
at least yearly. The method used to demonstrate competency for
certification of training shall be recorded and maintained by the
employer.
(iv) Procedures for handling emergency incidents. (A) In addition to
the elements for the emergency response plan required in paragraph
(p)(8)(ii) of this section, the following elements shall be included for
emergency response plans to the extent that they do not repeat any
information already contained in the emergency response plan:
(1) Site topography, layout, and prevailing weather conditions.
(2) Procedures for reporting incidents to local, state, and federal
governmental agencies.
(B) The emergency response plan shall be compatible and integrated
with the disaster, fire and/or emergency response plans of local, state,
and federal agencies.
(C) The emergency response plan shall be rehearsed regularly as part
of the overall training program for site operations.
(D) The site emergency response plan shall be reviewed periodically
and, as necessary, be amended to keep it current with new or changing
site conditions or information.
[[Page 387]]
(E) An employee alarm system shall be installed in accordance with
29 CFR 1910.165 to notify employees of an emergency situation; to stop
work activities if necessary; to lower background noise in order to
speed communication; and to begin emergency procedures.
(F) Based upon the information available at time of the emergency,
the employer shall evaluate the incident and the site response
capabilities and proceed with the appropriate steps to implement the
site emergency response plan.
(q) Emergency response to hazardous substance releases. This
paragraph covers employers whose employees are engaged in emergency
response no matter where it occurs except that it does not cover
employees engaged in operations specified in paragraphs (a)(1)(i)
through (a)(1)(iv) of this section. Those emergency response
organizations who have developed and implemented programs equivalent to
this paragraph for handling releases of hazardous substances pursuant to
section 303 of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986
(Emergency Planning and Community Right-to-Know Act of 1986, 42 U.S.C.
11003) shall be deemed to have met the requirements of this paragraph.
(1) Emergency response plan. An emergency response plan shall be
developed and implemented to handle anticipated emergencies prior to the
commencement of emergency response operations. The plan shall be in
writing and available for inspection and copying by employees, their
representatives and OSHA personnel. Employers who will evacuate their
employees from the danger area when an emergency occurs, and who do not
permit any of their employees to assist in handling the emergency, are
exempt from the requirements of this paragraph if they provide an
emergency action plan in accordance with 29 CFR 1910.38.
(2) Elements of an emergency response plan. The employer shall
develop an emergency response plan for emergencies which shall address,
as a minimum, the following to the extent that they are not addressed
elsewhere:
(i) Pre-emergency planning and coordination with outside parties.
(ii) Personnel roles, lines of authority, training, and
communication.
(iii) Emergency recognition and prevention.
(iv) Safe distances and places of refuge.
(v) Site security and control.
(vi) Evacuation routes and procedures.
(vii) Decontamination.
(viii) Emergency medical treatment and first aid.
(ix) Emergency alerting and response procedures.
(x) Critique of response and follow-up.
(xi) PPE and emergency equipment.
(xii) Emergency response organizations may use the local emergency
response plan or the state emergency response plan or both, as part of
their emergency response plan to avoid duplication. Those items of the
emergency response plan that are being properly addressed by the SARA
Title III plans may be substituted into their emergency plan or
otherwise kept together for the employer and employee's use.
(3) Procedures for handling emergency response. (i) The senior
emergency response official responding to an emergency shall become the
individual in charge of a site-specific Incident Command System (ICS).
All emergency responders and their communications shall be coordinated
and controlled through the individual in charge of the ICS assisted by
the senior official present for each employer.
Note to paragraph (q)(3)(i). The ``senior official'' at an emergency
response is the most senior official on the site who has the
responsibility for controlling the operations at the site. Initially it
is the senior officer on the first-due piece of responding emergency
apparatus to arrive on the incident scene. As more senior officers
arrive (i.e., battalion chief, fire chief, state law enforcement
official, site coordinator, etc.) the position is passed up the line of
authority which has been previously established.
[[Page 388]]
(ii) The individual in charge of the ICS shall identify, to the
extent possible, all hazardous substances or conditions present and
shall address as appropriate site analysis, use of engineering controls,
maximum exposure limits, hazardous substance handling procedures, and
use of any new technologies.
(iii) Based on the hazardous substances and/or conditions present,
the individual in charge of the ICS shall implement appropriate
emergency operations, and assure that the personal protective equipment
worn is appropriate for the hazards to be encountered. However, personal
protective equipment shall meet, at a minimum, the criteria contained in
29 CFR 1910.156(e) when worn while performing fire fighting operations
beyond the incipient stage for any incident.
(iv) Employees engaged in emergency response and exposed to
hazardous substances presenting an inhalation hazard or potential
inhalation hazard 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.
(v) The individual in charge of the ICS shall limit the number of
emergency response personnel at the emergency site, in those areas of
potential or actual exposure to incident or site hazards, to those who
are actively performing emergency operations. However, operations in
hazardous areas shall be performed using the buddy system in groups of
two or more.
(vi) Back-up personnel shall stand by with equipment ready to
provide assistance or rescue. Advance first aid support personnel, as a
minimum, shall also stand by with medical equipment and transportation
capability.
(vii) The individual in charge of the ICS shall designate a safety
official, who is knowledgable in the operations being implemented at the
emergency response site, with specific responsibility to identify and
evaluate hazards and to provide direction with respect to the safety of
operations for the emergency at hand.
(viii) 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. The safety official shall immediately inform the
individual in charge of the ICS of any actions needed to be taken to
correct these hazards at the emergency scene.
(ix) After emergency operations have terminated, the individual in
charge of the ICS shall implement appropriate decontamination
procedures.
(x) When deemed necessary for meeting the tasks at hand, approved
self-contained compressed air breathing apparatus may be used with
approved cylinders from other approved self-contained compressed air
breathing apparatus provided that such cylinders are of the same
capacity and pressure rating. All compressed air cylinders used with
self-contained breathing apparatus shall meet U.S. Department of
Transportation and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
criteria.
(4) Skilled support personnel. Personnel, not necessarily an
employer's own employees, who are skilled in the operation of certain
equipment, such as mechanized earth moving or digging equipment or crane
and hoisting equipment, and who are needed temporarily to perform
immediate emergency support work that cannot reasonably be performed in
a timely fashion by an employer's own employees, and who will be or may
be exposed to the hazards at an emergency response scene, are not
required to meet the training required in this paragraph for the
employer's regular employees. However, these personnel shall be given an
initial briefing at the site prior to their participation in any
emergency response. The initial briefing shall include instruction in
the wearing of appropriate personal protective equipment, what chemical
hazards are involved, and what duties are to be performed. All other
appropriate safety and health precautions provided to the employer's own
employees shall be used to assure the safety and health of these
personnel.
[[Page 389]]
(5) Specialist employees. Employees who, in the course of their
regular job duties, work with and are trained in the hazards of specific
hazardous substances, and who will be called upon to provide technical
advice or assistance at a hazardous substance release incident to the
individual in charge, shall receive training or demonstrate competency
in the area of their specialization annually.
(6) Training. Training shall be based on the duties and function to
be performed by each responder of an emergency response organization.
The skill and knowledge levels required for all new responders, those
hired after the effective date of this standard, shall be conveyed to
them through training before they are permitted to take part in actual
emergency operations on an incident. Employees who participate, or are
expected to participate, in emergency response, shall be given training
in accordance with the following paragraphs:
(i) First responder awareness level. First responders at the
awareness level are individuals 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 proper authorities of the
release. They would take no further action beyond notifying the
authorities of the release. First responders at the awareness level
shall have sufficient training or have had sufficient experience to
objectively demonstrate competency in the following areas:
(A) An understanding of what hazardous substances are, and the risks
associated with them in an incident.
(B) An understanding of the potential outcomes associated with an
emergency created when hazardous substances are present.
(C) The ability to recognize the presence of hazardous substances in
an emergency.
(D) The ability to identify the hazardous substances, if possible.
(E) An understanding of the role of the first responder awareness
individual in the employer's emergency response plan including site
security and control and the U.S. Department of Transportation's
Emergency Response Guidebook.
(F) The ability to realize the need for additional resources, and to
make appropriate notifications to the communication center.
(ii) First responder operations level. First responders at the
operations level are individuals who respond to releases or potential
releases of hazardous substances as part of the initial response to the
site for the purpose of protecting nearby persons, property, or the
environment from the effects of the release. They are trained to respond
in a defensive fashion without actually trying to stop the release.
Their function is to contain the release from a safe distance, keep it
from spreading, and prevent exposures. First responders at the
operational level shall have received at least eight hours of training
or have had sufficient experience to objectively demonstrate competency
in the following areas in addition to those listed for the awareness
level and the employer shall so certify:
(A) Knowledge of the basic hazard and risk assessment techniques.
(B) Know how to select and use proper personal protective equipment
provided to the first responder operational level.
(C) An understanding of basic hazardous materials terms.
(D) Know how to perform basic control, containment and/or
confinement operations within the capabilities of the resources and
personal protective equipment available with their unit.
(E) Know how to implement basic decontamination procedures.
(F) An understanding of the relevant standard operating procedures
and termination procedures.
(iii) Hazardous materials technician. Hazardous materials
technicians are individuals who respond to releases or potential
releases for the purpose of stopping the release. They assume a more
aggressive role than a first responder at the operations level in that
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
[[Page 390]]
hours of training equal to the first responder operations level and in
addition have competency in the following areas and the employer shall
so certify:
(A) Know how to implement the employer's emergency response plan.
(B) Know the classification, identification and verification of
known and unknown materials by using field survey instruments and
equipment.
(C) Be able to function within an assigned role in the Incident
Command System.
(D) Know how to select and use proper specialized chemical personal
protective equipment provided to the hazardous materials technician.
(E) Understand hazard and risk assessment techniques.
(F) Be able to perform advance control, containment, and/or
confinement operations within the capabilities of the resources and
personal protective equipment available with the unit.
(G) Understand and implement decontamination procedures.
(H) Understand termination procedures.
(I) Understand basic chemical and toxicological terminology and
behavior.
(iv) Hazardous materials specialist. Hazardous materials specialists
are individuals who respond with and provide support to hazardous
materials technicians. Their duties parallel those of the hazardous
materials technician, however, those duties require a more directed or
specific knowledge of the various substances they may be called upon to
contain. The hazardous materials specialist would also act as the site
liaison with Federal, state, local and other government authorities in
regards to site activities. Hazardous materials specialists shall have
received at least 24 hours of training equal to the technician level and
in addition have competency in the following areas and the employer
shall so certify:
(A) Know how to implement the local emergency response plan.
(B) Understand classification, identification and verification of
known and unknown materials by using advanced survey instruments and
equipment.
(C) Know of the state emergency response plan.
(D) Be able to select and use proper specialized chemical personal
protective equipment provided to the hazardous materials specialist.
(E) Understand in-depth hazard and risk techniques.
(F) Be able to perform specialized control, containment, and/or
confinement operations within the capabilities of the resources and
personal protective equipment available.
(G) Be able to determine and implement decontamination procedures.
(H) Have the ability to develop a site safety and control plan.
(I) Understand chemical, radiological and toxicological terminology
and behavior.
(v) On scene incident commander. Incident commanders, who will
assume control of the incident scene beyond the first responder
awareness level, shall receive at least 24 hours of training equal to
the first responder operations level and in addition have competency in
the following areas and the employer shall so certify:
(A) Know and be able to implement the employer's incident command
system.
(B) Know how to implement the employer's emergency response plan.
(C) Know and understand the hazards and risks associated with
employees working in chemical protective clothing.
(D) Know how to implement the local emergency response plan.
(E) Know of the state emergency response plan and of the Federal
Regional Response Team.
(F) Know and understand the importance of decontamination
procedures.
(7) Trainers. Trainers who teach any of the above training subjects
shall have satisfactorily completed a training course for teaching the
subjects they are expected to teach, such as the courses offered by the
U.S. National Fire Academy, or they shall have the training and/or
academic credentials and instructional experience necessary to
demonstrate competent instructional skills and a good command of the
subject matter of the courses they are to teach.
(8) Refresher training. (i) Those employees who are trained in
accordance with paragraph (q)(6) of this section
[[Page 391]]
shall receive annual refresher training of sufficient content and
duration to maintain their competencies, or shall demonstrate competency
in those areas at least yearly.
(ii) A statement shall be made of the training or competency, and if
a statement of competency is made, the employer shall keep a record of
the methodology used to demonstrate competency.
(9) Medical surveillance and consultation. (i) Members of an
organized and designated HAZMAT team and hazardous materials specialists
shall receive a baseline physical examination and be provided with
medical surveillance as required in paragraph (f) of this section.
(ii) Any emergency response employees who exhibits signs or symptoms
which may have resulted from exposure to hazardous substances during the
course of an emergency incident, either immediately or subsequently,
shall be provided with medical consultation as required in paragraph
(f)(3)(ii) of this section.
(10) Chemical protective clothing. Chemical protective clothing and
equipment to be used by organized and designated HAZMAT team members, or
to be used by hazardous materials specialists, shall meet the
requirements of paragraphs (g) (3) through (5) of this section.
(11) Post-emergency response operations. Upon completion of the
emergency response, if it is determined that it is necessary to remove
hazardous substances, health hazards, and materials contaminated with
them (such as contaminated soil or other elements of the natural
environment) from the site of the incident, the employer conducting the
clean-up shall comply with one of the following:
(i) Meet all of the requirements of paragraphs (b) through (o) of
this section; or
(ii) Where the clean-up is done on plant property using plant or
workplace employees, such employees shall have completed the training
requirements of the following: 29 CFR 1910.38, 1910.134, 1910.1200, and
other appropriate safety and health training made necessary by the tasks
they are expected to perform such as personal protective equipment and
decontamination procedures. All equipment to be used in the performance
of the clean-up work shall be in serviceable condition and shall have
been inspected prior to use.
Appendices to Sec. 1910.120--Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency
Response
Note: The following appendices serve as non-mandatory guidelines to
assist employees and employers in complying with the appropriate
requirements of this section. However paragraph 1910.120(g) makes
mandatory in certain circumstances the use of Level A and Level B PPE
protection.
Appendix A to Sec. 1910.120--Personal Protective Equipment Test Methods
This appendix sets forth the non-mandatory examples of tests which
may be used to evaluate compliance with Sec. 1910.120 (g)(4) (ii) and
(iii). Other tests and other challenge agents may be used to evaluate
compliance.
A. Totally-encapsulating chemical protective suit pressure test
1.0--Scope
1.1 This practice measures the ability of a gas tight totally-
encapsulating chemical protective suit material, seams, and closures to
maintain a fixed positive pressure. The results of this practice allow
the gas tight integrity of a totally-encapsulating chemical protective
suit to be evaluated.
1.2 Resistance of the suit materials to permeation, penetration, and
degradation by specific hazardous substances is not determined by this
test method.
2.0--Definition of terms
2.1 Totally-encapsulated chemical protective suit (TECP suit) means
a full body garment which is constructed of protective clothing
materials; covers the wearer's torso, head, arms, legs and respirator;
may cover the wearer's hands and feet with tightly attached gloves and
boots; completely encloses the wearer and respirator by itself or in
combination with the wearer's gloves and boots.
2.2 Protective clothing material means any material or combination
of materials used in an item of clothing for the purpose of isolating
parts of the body from direct contact with a potentially hazardous
liquid or gaseous chemicals.
2.3 Gas tight means, for the purpose of this test method, the
limited flow of a gas under pressure from the inside of a TECP suit to
atmosphere at a prescribed pressure and time interval.
3.0--Summary of test method
3.1 The TECP suit is visually inspected and modified for the test.
The test apparatus is attached to the suit to permit inflation to
[[Page 392]]
the pre-test suit expansion pressure for removal of suit wrinkles and
creases. The pressure is lowered to the test pressure and monitored for
three minutes. If the pressure drop is excessive, the TECP suit fails
the test and is removed from service. The test is repeated after leak
location and repair.
4.0--Required Supplies
4.1 Source of compressed air.
4.2 Test apparatus for suit testing, including a pressure
measurement device with a sensitivity of at least \1/4\ inch water
gauge.
4.3 Vent valve closure plugs or sealing tape.
4.4 Soapy water solution and soft brush.
4.5 Stop watch or appropriate timing device.
5.0--Safety Precautions
5.1 Care shall be taken to provide the correct pressure safety
devices required for the source of compressed air used.
6.0--Test Procedure
6.1 Prior to each test, the tester shall perform a visual inspection
of the suit. Check the suit for seam integrity by visually examining the
seams and gently pulling on the seams. Ensure that all air supply lines,
fittings, visor, zippers, and valves are secure and show no signs of
deterioration.
6.1.1 Seal off the vent valves along with any other normal inlet or
exhaust points (such as umbilical air line fittings or face piece
opening) with tape or other appropriate means (caps, plugs, fixture,
etc.). Care should be exercised in the sealing process not to damage any
of the suit components.
6.1.2 Close all closure assemblies.
6.1.3 Prepare the suit for inflation by providing an improvised
connection point on the suit for connecting an airline. Attach the
pressure test apparatus to the suit to permit suit inflation from a
compressed air source equipped with a pressure indicating regulator. The
leak tightness of the pressure test apparatus should be tested before
and after each test by closing off the end of the tubing attached to the
suit and assuring a pressure of three inches water gauge for three
minutes can be maintained. If a component is removed for the test, that
component shall be replaced and a second test conducted with another
component removed to permit a complete test of the ensemble.
6.1.4 The pre-test expansion pressure (A) and the suit test pressure
(B) shall be supplied by the suit manufacturer, but in no case shall
they be less than: (A)=three inches water gauge; and (B)=two inches
water gauge. The ending suit pressure (C) shall be no less than 80
percent of the test pressure (B); i.e., the pressure drop shall not
exceed 20 percent of the test pressure (B).
6.1.5 Inflate the suit until the pressure inside is equal to
pressure (A), the pre-test expansion suit pressure. Allow at least one
minute to fill out the wrinkles in the suit. Release sufficient air to
reduce the suit pressure to pressure (B), the suit test pressure. Begin
timing. At the end of three minutes, record the suit pressure as
pressure (C), the ending suit pressure. The difference between the suit
test pressure and the ending suit test pressure (B-C) shall be defined
as the suit pressure drop.
6.1.6 If the suit pressure drop is more than 20 percent of the suit
test pressure (B) during the three-minute test period, the suit fails
the test and shall be removed from service.
7.0--Retest Procedure
7.1 If the suit fails the test check for leaks by inflating the suit
to pressure (A) and brushing or wiping the entire suit (including seams,
closures, lens gaskets, glove-to-sleeve joints, etc.) with a mild soap
and water solution. Observe the suit for the formation of soap bubbles,
which is an indication of a leak. Repair all identified leaks.
7.2 Retest the TECP suit as outlined in Test procedure 6.0.
8.0--Report
8.1 Each TECP suit tested by this practice shall have the following
information recorded:
8.1.1 Unique identification number, identifying brand name, date of
purchase, material of construction, and unique fit features, e.g.,
special breathing apparatus.
8.1.2 The actual values for test pressures (A), (B), and (C) shall
be recorded along with the specific observation times. If the ending
pressure (C) is less than 80 percent of the test pressure (B), the suit
shall be identified as failing the test. When possible, the specific
leak location shall be identified in the test records. Retest pressure
data shall be recorded as an additional test.
8.1.3 The source of the test apparatus used shall be identified and
the sensitivity of the pressure gauge shall be recorded.
8.1.4 Records shall be kept for each pressure test even if repairs
are being made at the test location.
Caution
Visually inspect all parts of the suit to be sure they are
positioned correctly and secured tightly before putting the suit back
into service. Special care should be taken to examine each exhaust valve
to make sure it is not blocked.
Care should also be exercised to assure that the inside and outside
of the suit is completely dry before it is put into storage.
B. Totally-encapsulating chemical protective suit qualitative leak test
1.0--Scope
1.1 This practice semi-qualitatively tests gas tight totally-
encapsulating chemical protective suit integrity by detecting inward
leakage of ammonia vapor. Since no modifications are made to the suit to
carry out
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this test, the results from this practice provide a realistic test for
the integrity of the entire suit.
1.2 Resistance of the suit materials to permeation, penetration, and
degradation is not determined by this test method. ASTM test methods are
available to test suit materials for these characteristics and the tests
are usually conducted by the manufacturers of the suits.
2.0--Definition of terms
2.1 Totally-encapsulated chemical protective suit (TECP suit) means
a full body garment which is constructed of protective clothing
materials; covers the wearer's torso, head, arms, legs and respirator;
may cover the wearer's hands and feet with tightly attached gloves and
boots; completely encloses the wearer and respirator by itself or in
combination with the wearer's gloves, and boots.
2.2 Protective clothing material means any material or combination
of materials used in an item of clothing for the purpose of isolating
parts of the body from direct contact with a potentially hazardous
liquid or gaseous chemicals.
2.3 Gas tight means, for the purpose of this test method, the
limited flow of a gas under pressure from the inside of a TECP suit to
atmosphere at a prescribed pressure and time interval.
2.4 Intrusion Coefficient means a number expressing the level of
protection provided by a gas tight totally-encapsulating chemical
protective suit. The intrusion coefficient is calculated by dividing the
test room challenge agent concentration by the concentration of
challenge agent found inside the suit. The accuracy of the intrusion
coefficient is dependent on the challenge agent monitoring methods. The
larger the intrusion coefficient the greater the protection provided by
the TECP suit.
3.0--Summary of recommended practice
3.1 The volume of concentrated aqueous ammonia solution (ammonia
hydroxide NH4 OH) required to generate the test atmosphere is
determined using the directions outlined in 6.1. The suit is donned by a
person wearing the appropriate respiratory equipment (either a positive
pressure self-contained breathing apparatus or a positive pressure
supplied air respirator) and worn inside the enclosed test room. The
concentrated aqueous ammonia solution is taken by the suited individual
into the test room and poured into an open plastic pan. A two-minute
evaporation period is observed before the test room concentration is
measured, using a high range ammonia length of stain detector tube. When
the ammonia vapor reaches a concentration of between 1000 and 1200 ppm,
the suited individual starts a standardized exercise protocol to stress
and flex the suit. After this protocol is completed, the test room
concentration is measured again. The suited individual exits the test
room and his stand-by person measures the ammonia concentration inside
the suit using a low range ammonia length of stain detector tube or
other more sensitive ammonia detector. A stand-by person is required to
observe the test individual during the test procedure; aid the person in
donning and doffing the TECP suit; and monitor the suit interior. The
intrusion coefficient of the suit can be calculated by dividing the
average test area concentration by the interior suit concentration. A
colorimetric ammonia indicator strip of bromophenol blue or equivalent
is placed on the inside of the suit face piece lens so that the suited
individual is able to detect a color change and know if the suit has a
significant leak. If a color change is observed the individual shall
leave the test room immediately.
4.0--Required supplies
4.1 A supply of concentrated aqueous ammonium hydroxide (58% by
weight).
4.2 A supply of bromophenol/blue indicating paper or equivalent,
sensitive to 5-10 ppm ammonia or greater over a two-minute period of
exposure. [pH 3.0 (yellow) to pH 4.6 (blue)]
4.3 A supply of high range (0.5-10 volume percent) and low range (5-
700 ppm) detector tubes for ammonia and the corresponding sampling pump.
More sensitive ammonia detectors can be substituted for the low range
detector tubes to improve the sensitivity of this practice.
4.4 A shallow plastic pan (PVC) at least
12:14:1 and a half pint plastic
container (PVC) with tightly closing lid.
4.5 A graduated cylinder or other volumetric measuring device of at
least 50 milliliters in volume with an accuracy of at least 1 milliliters.
5.0--Safety precautions
5.1 Concentrated aqueous ammonium hydroxide, NH4 OH, is a
corrosive volatile liquid requiring eye, skin, and respiratory
protection. The person conducting the test shall review the MSDS for
aqueous ammonia.
5.2 Since the established permissible exposure limit for ammonia is
35 ppm as a 15 minute STEL, only persons wearing a positive pressure
self-contained breathing apparatus or a positive pressure supplied air
respirator shall be in the chamber. Normally only the person wearing the
totally-encapsulating suit will be inside the chamber. A stand-by person
shall have a positive pressure self-contained breathing apparatus, or a
positive pressure supplied air respirator available to enter the test
area should the suited individual need assistance.
5.3 A method to monitor the suited individual must be used during
this test. Visual contact is the simplest but other methods using
communication devices are acceptable.
5.4 The test room shall be large enough to allow the exercise
protocol to be carried out and then to be ventilated to allow for easy
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exhaust of the ammonia test atmosphere after the test(s) are completed.
5.5 Individuals shall be medically screened for the use of
respiratory protection and checked for allergies to ammonia before
participating in this test procedure.
6.0--Test procedure
6.1.1 Measure the test area to the nearest foot and calculate its
volume in cubic feet. Multiply the test area volume by 0.2 milliliters
of concentrated aqueous ammonia solution per cubic foot of test area
volume to determine the approximate volume of concentrated aqueous
ammonia required to generate 1000 ppm in the test area.
6.1.2 Measure this volume from the supply of concentrated aqueous
ammonia and place it into a closed plastic container.
6.1.3 Place the container, several high range ammonia detector
tubes, and the pump in the clean test pan and locate it near the test
area entry door so that the suited individual has easy access to these
supplies.
6.2.1 In a non-contaminated atmosphere, open a pre-sealed ammonia
indicator strip and fasten one end of the strip to the inside of the
suit face shield lens where it can be seen by the wearer. Moisten the
indicator strip with distilled water. Care shall be taken not to
contaminate the detector part of the indicator paper by touching it. A
small piece of masking tape or equivalent should be used to attach the
indicator strip to the interior of the suit face shield.
6.2.2 If problems are encountered with this method of attachment,
the indicator strip can be attached to the outside of the respirator
face piece lens being used during the test.
6.3 Don the respiratory protective device normally used with the
suit, and then don the TECP suit to be tested. Check to be sure all
openings which are intended to be sealed (zippers, gloves, etc.) are
completely sealed. DO NOT, however, plug off any venting valves.
6.4 Step into the enclosed test room such as a closet, bathroom, or
test booth, equipped with an exhaust fan. No air should be exhausted
from the chamber during the test because this will dilute the ammonia
challenge concentrations.
6.5 Open the container with the pre-measured volume of concentrated
aqueous ammonia within the enclosed test room, and pour the liquid into
the empty plastic test pan. Wait two minutes to allow for adequate
volatilization of the concentrated aqueous ammonia. A small mixing fan
can be used near the evaporation pan to increase the evaporation rate of
the ammonia solution.
6.6 After two minutes a determination of the ammonia concentration
within the chamber should be made using the high range colorimetric
detector tube. A concentration of 1000 ppm ammonia or greater shall be
generated before the exercises are started.
6.7 To test the integrity of the suit the following four minute
exercise protocol should be followed:
6.7.1 Raising the arms above the head with at least 15 raising
motions completed in one minute.
6.7.2 Walking in place for one minute with at least 15 raising
motions of each leg in a one-minute period.
6.7.3 Touching the toes with a least 10 complete motions of the arms
from above the head to touching of the toes in a one-minute period.
6.7.4 Knee bends with at least 10 complete standing and squatting
motions in a one-minute period.
6.8 If at any time during the test the colorimetric indicating paper
should change colors, the test should be stopped and section 6.10 and
6.12 initiated (See ] 4.2).
6.9 After completion of the test exercise, the test area
concentration should be measured again using the high range colorimetric
detector tube.
6.10 Exit the test area.
6.11 The opening created by the suit zipper or other appropriate
suit penetration should be used to determine the ammonia concentration
in the suit with the low range length of stain detector tube or other
ammonia monitor. The internal TECP suit air should be sampled far enough
from the enclosed test area to prevent a false ammonia reading.
6.12 After completion of the measurement of the suit interior
ammonia concentration the test is concluded and the suit is doffed and
the respirator removed.
6.13 The ventilating fan for the test room should be turned on and
allowed to run for enough time to remove the ammonia gas. The fan shall
be vented to the outside of the building.
6.14 Any detectable ammonia in the suit interior (five ppm ammonia
(NH3) or more for the length of stain detector tube)
indicates that the suit has failed the test. When other ammonia
detectors are used a lower level of detection is possible, and it should
be specified as the pass/fail criteria.
6.15 By following this test method, an intrusion coefficient of
approximately 200 or more can be measured with the suit in a completely
operational condition. If the intrusion coefficient is 200 or more, then
the suit is suitable for emergency response and field use.
7.0--Retest procedures
7.1 If the suit fails this test, check for leaks by following the
pressure test in test A above.
7.2 Retest the TECP suit as outlined in the test procedure 6.0.
8.0--Report
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8.1 Each gas tight totally-encapsulating chemical protective suit
tested by this practice shall have the following information recorded.
8.1.1 Unique identification number, identifying brand name, date of
purchase, material of construction, and unique suit features; e.g.,
special breathing apparatus.
8.1.2 General description of test room used for test.
8.1.3 Brand name and purchase date of ammonia detector strips and
color change data.
8.1.4 Brand name, sampling range, and expiration date of the length
of stain ammonia detector tubes. The brand name and model of the
sampling pump should also be recorded. If another type of ammonia
detector is used, it should be identified along with its minimum
detection limit for ammonia.
8.1.5 Actual test results shall list the two test area
concentrations, their average, the interior suit concentration, and the
calculated intrusion coefficient. Retest data shall be recorded as an
additional test.
8.2 The evaluation of the data shall be specified as ``suit passed''
or ``suit failed,'' and the date of the test. Any detectable ammonia
(five ppm or greater for the length of stain detector tube) in the suit
interior indicates the suit has failed this test. When other ammonia
detectors are used, a lower level of detection is possible and it should
be specified as the pass fail criteria.
Caution
Visually inspect all parts of the suit to be sure they are
positioned correctly and secured tightly before putting the suit back
into service. Special care should be taken to examine each exhaust valve
to make sure it is not blocked.
Care should also be exercised to assure that the inside and outside
of the suit is completely dry before it is put into storage.
Appendix B to Sec. 1910.120--General Description and Discussion of the
Levels of Protection and Protective Gear
This appendix sets forth information about personal protective
equipment (PPE) protection levels which may be used to assist employers
in complying with the PPE requirements of this section.
As required by the standard, PPE must be selected which will protect
employees from the specific hazards which they are likely to encounter
during their work on-site.
Selection of the appropriate PPE is a complex process which should
take into consideration a variety of factors. Key factors involved in
this process are identification of the hazards, or suspected hazards;
their routes of potential hazard to employees (inhalation, skin
absorption, ingestion, and eye or skin contact); and the performance of
the PPE materials (and seams) in providing a barrier to these hazards.
The amount of protection provided by PPE is material-hazard specific.
That is, protective equipment materials will protect well against some
hazardous substances and poorly, or not at all, against others. In many
instances, protective equipment materials cannot be found which will
provide continuous protection from the particular hazardous substance.
In these cases the breakthrough time of the protective material should
exceed the work durations.
Other factors in this selection process to be considered are
matching the PPE to the employee's work requirements and task-specific
conditions. The durability of PPE materials, such as tear strength and
seam strength, should be considered in relation to the employee's tasks.
The effects of PPE in relation to heat stress and task duration are a
factor in selecting and using PPE. In some cases layers of PPE may be
necessary to provide sufficient protection, or to protect expensive PPE
inner garments, suits or equipment.
The more that is known about the hazards at the site, the easier the
job of PPE selection becomes. As more information about the hazards and
conditions at the site becomes available, the site supervisor can make
decisions to up-grade or down-grade the level of PPE protection to match
the tasks at hand.
The following are guidelines which an employer can use to begin the
selection of the appropriate PPE. As noted above, the site information
may suggest the use of combinations of PPE selected from the different
protection levels (i.e., A, B, C, or D) as being more suitable to the
hazards of the work. It should be cautioned that the listing below does
not fully address the performance of the specific PPE material in
relation to the specific hazards at the job site, and that PPE
selection, evaluation and re-selection is an ongoing process until
sufficient information about the hazards and PPE performance is
obtained.
Part A. Personal protective equipment is divided into four
categories based on the degree of protection afforded. (See Part B of
this appendix for further explanation of Levels A, B, C, and D hazards.)
I. Level A--To be selected when the greatest level of skin,
respiratory, and eye protection is required.
The following constitute Level A equipment; it may be used as
appropriate;
1. Positive pressure, full face-piece self-contained breathing
apparatus (SCBA), or positive pressure supplied air respirator with
escape SCBA, approved by the National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health (NIOSH).
2. Totally-encapsulating chemical-protective suit.
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3. Coveralls.\1\
4. Long underwear.\1\
5. Gloves, outer, chemical-resistant.
6. Gloves, inner, chemical-resistant.
7. Boots, chemical-resistant, steel toe and shank.
8. Hard hat (under suit).\1\
9. Disposable protective suit, gloves and boots (depending on suit
construction, may be worn over totally-encapsulating suit).
II. Level B--The highest level of respiratory protection is
necessary but a lesser level of skin protection is needed.
The following constitute Level B equipment; it may be used as
appropriate.
1. Positive pressure, full-facepiece self-contained breathing
apparatus (SCBA), or positive pressure supplied air respirator with
escape SCBA (NIOSH approved).
2. Hooded chemical-resistant clothing (overalls and long-sleeved
jacket; coveralls; one or two-piece chemical-splash suit; disposable
chemical-resistant overalls).
3. Coveralls. \1\
4. Gloves, outer, chemical-resistant.
5. Gloves, inner, chemical-resistant.
6. Boots, outer, chemical-resistant steel toe and shank.
7. Boot-covers, outer, chemical-resistant (disposable).\1\
8. Hard hat. \1\
9. [Reserved]
10. Face shield. \1\
III. Level C--The concentration(s) and type(s) of airborne
substance(s) is known and the criteria for using air purifying
respirators are met.
The following constitute Level C equipment; it may be used as
appropriate.
1. Full-face or half-mask, air purifying respirators (NIOSH
approved).
2. Hooded chemical-resistant clothing (overalls; two-piece chemical-
splash suit; disposable chemical-resistant overalls).
3. Coveralls. \1\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Optional, as applicable.
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4. Gloves, outer, chemical-resistant.
5. Gloves, inner, chemical-resistant.
6. Boots (outer), chemical-resistant steel toe and shank. \1\
7. Boot-covers, outer, chemical-resistant (disposable) \1\.
8. Hard hat. \1\
9. Escape mask. \1\
10. Face shield. \1\
IV. Level D--A work uniform affording minimal protection, used for
nuisance contamination only.
The following constitute Level D equipment; it may be used as
appropriate:
1. Coveralls.
2. Gloves. \1\
3. Boots/shoes, chemical-resistant steel toe and shank.
4. Boots, outer, chemical-resistant (disposable). \1\
5. Safety glasses or chemical splash goggles*.
6. Hard hat. \1\
7. Escape mask. \1\
8. Face shield. \1\
Part B. The types of hazards for which levels A, B, C, and D
protection are appropriate are described below:
I. Level A--Level A protection should be used when:
1. The hazardous substance has been identified and requires the
highest level of protection for skin, eyes, and the respiratory system
based on either the measured (or potential for) high concentration of
atmospheric vapors, gases, or particulates; or the site operations and
work functions involve a high potential for splash, immersion, or
exposure to unexpected vapors, gases, or particulates of materials that
are harmful to skin or capable of being absorbed through the skin;
2. Substances with a high degree of hazard to the skin are known or
suspected to be present, and skin contact is possible; or
3. Operations are being conducted in confined, poorly ventilated
areas, and the absence of conditions requiring Level A have not yet been
determined.
II. Level B--Level B protection should be used when:
1. The type and atmospheric concentration of substances have been
identified and require a high level of respiratory protection, but less
skin protection;
2. The atmosphere contains less than 19.5 percent oxygen; or
3. The presence of incompletely identified vapors or gases is
indicated by a direct-reading organic vapor detection instrument, but
vapors and gases are not suspected of containing high levels of
chemicals harmful to skin or capable of being absorbed through the skin.
Note: This involves atmospheres with IDLH concentrations of specific
substances that present severe inhalation hazards and that do not
represent a severe skin hazard; or that do not meet the criteria for use
o