IESEM Diploma in Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response

Overview: This program is focused on equipping participants with a detailed and practical grasp of how to handle and oversee hazardous waste, as well as how to respond effectively to emergencies that may arise from such materials. The curriculum covers a wide array of crucial topics, including the identification, evaluation, and management of hazardous substances, along with the correct procedures for their storage and disposal methods to prevent environmental damage and health risks. Engaging in hands-on activities, real-world case analyses, and dynamic group discussions, candidates will develop the competencies required to maintain safety and adhere to regulatory compliance in the management of hazardous waste across various sectors.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the legal frameworks and guidelines that address the handling of hazardous waste operations and the response to emergencies.
• Distinguish and evaluate various hazardous materials along with their associated hazards.
• Execute the right techniques for the storage, handling, and disposal of hazardous substances to reduce the risk to health and the environment.
• Capable to develop strategic emergency response protocols for unexpected hazardous material incidents.
• Gain proficiency in using personal protective equipment and understand other essential safety precautions.
• Implement industry standards and best available practices in the management of hazardous waste materials.
• Encourage and uphold a workplace culture that prioritizes safety and adherence to regulations.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Learners must be above 21 years.
• Must Hold a Level 3 Certificate with 3 years of experience in the relevant field. Or
• Must Hold a Graduation or Equivalency Degree in the relevant field.

Qualification Structure: The diploma in Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response consists of 8 mandatory units for a combined total of 80 credits, 800 hours of Total Qualification Time (TQT), and 400 Guided Learning Hours (GLH) for the completed qualification.

Module 1: Introduction to Hazardous Waste Operations

• Overview of applicable regulations and standards.
• Roles and responsibilities of personnel involved in hazardous waste management.
• Understanding the dangers associated with hazardous materials.

Module 2: Identification and Assessment of Hazardous Materials

• Methods for identifying hazardous materials.
• Evaluating the risks and potential impacts of hazardous materials.
• Hazard communication and labeling requirements.

Module 3: Storage and Handling Techniques

• Proper storage practices to prevent leaks, spills, and other incidents.
• Handling precautions and equipment selection.
• Compatibility requirements for different hazardous materials.

Module 4: Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Safety Measures

• Selection and proper use of PPE for different scenarios.
• Respiratory protection and other safety equipment.
• Decontamination procedures.

Module 5: Best Practices and Compliance

• Implementing best practices for hazardous waste management.
• Compliance with regulatory requirements and reporting obligations.
• Training and ongoing education for personnel involved in hazardous waste operations

Module 6:  Spill Clean Up Procedure

• Spill classification.
• Importance of SDS/MSDS for handling a spill.
• Spill clean-up Materials and kit.
• Steps of Spill clean up.

Module 7: Disposal and Treatment Methods

• Overview of waste disposal and treatment options.
• Recycling and waste minimization strategies.
• Compliance with disposal regulations

Module 8: Emergency Response Procedures

• Developing emergency response plans and procedures.
• Spill response and containment techniques.
• Evacuation procedures and communication protocols.

Duration and Delivery: The qualification will be flexible in its delivery to accommodate part-time and distance learning. The diploma in Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response program will typically span over 02 to 03 months, including classroom lectures, practical exercises, distance, and online.

Assessment and verification:

All units within this qualification are internally assessed by the Institute of Excellence for Sustainability and Environmental Management. To achieve a ‘pass’ for a unit, learners must provide evidence to demonstrate that they have fulfilled all the learning outcomes and meet the standards specified by all assessment criteria. The judgment that the learners have successfully fulfilled the assessment criteria is made by the Assessor.

The Assessor should provide an audit trail showing how the judgment of the learners’ overall achievement has been arrived at.