HAZWOPER Chain of Command Is Only As Strong As Its Weakest Link

HAZWOPER Chain of Command Is Only As Strong As Its Weakest Link

Topic: Chemical Safety

If you’re operating a hazardous waste site, you must develop a written safety and health program for operations and cleanup. One of the things you must clearly identify and outline in your written plan is who’s in charge of what, and exactly what the lines of authority are. Remember, your HAZWOPER chain of command, like any other chain, will be only as strong as its weakest link.

Organizational Structure Requirements

Your health and safety program organizational structure must show how a chain of command is established, specify responsibilities of supervisors and employees, and establish a clear line of authority and communication necessary to ensure the implementation and enforcement of safety and health rules. The structure must include:

• The name of a general supervisor with the authority to direct all operations at the site
• The name of site safety and health supervisor(s) with authority to develop and implement the site safety and health plan and verify compliance
• An explanation of the general functions and responsibilities of all personnel involved in site operations and emergency response, including contractors and subcontractors
• Lines of authority, responsibility, and communication, including clear lines of authority between contractors and subcontractors
• Periodic updates to the program as necessary to reflect changes in site operations or conditions that will affect safety and health

Site Control Requirements

Another essential ingredient in your site management is your site control. OSHA requires you to implement site control procedures that include:

• An accurate, up-to-date site zone map, including, where appropriate, exclusion zones, contamination reduction zones, and decontamination areas
• Use of a "buddy system" that puts workers into groups of two or more for operations in hazardous areas
• Site communications, including an alarm system for emergencies that will 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
• Standard operating procedures (SOPs) for safety and health that are developed based on the health risk or hazard analysis, that identify the site locations where hazards are likely to occur, and specify the appropriate types of PPE and control methods for each task to protect workers and the environment
• The location of the nearest medical assistance