Hazcom vs. Hazmat vs. Hazardous waste

Are you familiar with the different hazardous materials terminology?

The term HAZCOM refers to the OSHA Hazard Communication Standard, which requires that employees receive training about the chemicals they use in their work.

The term HAZMAT is used when discussing the transport, clean-up, transport, use or disposal of hazardous materials. It can also be used in connection with emergency response to a hazardous materials accident and the protective clothing worn during the response, as in “HazMat suit”.

HAZARDOUS WASTE is a contaminated chemical or by-product of a production process that must be disposed of in accordance with the Environmental Protection Agency. This could include small amounts of chemicals such as parts washing solvents in a machine shop, or large amounts of construction by-products.

HAZWOPER refers to training that deals with hazardous waste operations and emergency response to chemical spills or releases. HAZWOPER training alerts your employees to the dangers of hazardous substances and their role in responding to them. It is essential for any employee that works around hazardous materials.