Proper handling of releases of hazardous materials and hazardous waste became a focus in 1989 when the Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) regulations were promulgated under ...OSHA in 29 CFR 1910.120. Hazardous materials (HAZMAT) responder training became required under the regulations for all spill responders, including first responders, hazardous waste technicians, on-scene incident commanders and specialists. Requirements for training dependent upon actual duties performed during spill response. This article details a methodology for implementing a proactive spill prevention and response program. The program has been in place at IBM Austin for nearly 10 years and has enabled the Austin facility to reduce continually the number of spills over time.
