The acronym HAZWOPER stands for Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response. The Hazwoper standard is enforced by OSHA and covers any worker who, while performing work duties, may potentially be exposed to hazardous materials of any kind, including hazardous wastes.

Examples of situations where Hazwoper training would be required include: clean-up operations at hazardous waste sites, emergency response situations that may involve release of toxic substances, and storage tank removal or maintenance.

The complete OSHA standard for Hazwoper can be found here and includes information on personal protective equipment, compliance guidelines, training requirements and references.