While chemical distributors have always been focused on protecting their employees, the spotlight on safety has certainly intensified these past few years.
Safety is probably more front of mind than ever before, suggests Pete Nemmers, CSM, Director of Training Development at the National Association of Safety Professionals (NASP).
The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, with its myriad rules and restrictions, certainly raised awareness about workplace safety, but there is also now a far greater emphasis on improving standards with the Biden administration increasing oversight in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and strengthening the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
“There’s a lot going on right now that signifies a ramping up of safety within workplaces,” says Nemmers. “It's getting more stringent, and there’s far more focus on everything from a safety perspective.”
NACD members pride themselves on their exemplary safety performance, low injury and fatality rates, and commitment to the association’s Responsible Distribution program.
As a Strategic Partner of NACD since 2020, NASP provides an extensive range of professional development, training, and certification to help those seeking safety and environmental support.
“We use adult training methodologies to provide a truly impactful training experience that not only helps build knowledge for whoever is participating, but it helps build a better safety culture,” says Nemmers. “We put a lot of work into ensuring maximum retention on our products and providing a personalized experience for those who seek our training.”
Offering in-depth guidance on everything from emergency response to hazardous waste management, NASP designs and implements customized safety plans, programs, and training – and can determine whether your business is meeting regulatory requirements and then help fix any deficiencies.
NASP offers accredited training, hosts online and in-person workshops and webinars, and speaks at NACD meetings. Nemmers is also a regular contributor to NACD’s Chemical Distributor magazine through the quarterly safety article.
“The number one overall fine in America through OSHA every year is for the lack of fall protection training requirements. The fact that it’s for the lack of training for something is indicative of the importance of what we do,” says Nemmers.
“We offer many consultative services to help your business maintain a safe work environment and prepare for Responsible Distribution. You often don't know where you are until you have an objective third-party coming in and taking a look at your facilities.”
Among NASP’s most popular courses are those focusing on OSHA's Hazardous Waste and Emergency Response standard (HAZWOPER). Its HAZWOPER Train-The-Trainer course not only shows students how best to respond to hazardous releases or emergency response situations, but it teaches them how to train colleagues internally as well, which makes for an excellent return on investment, he says.
Another course that regularly sells out is its week-long interactive Certified Safety Manager, which includes a comprehensive overview of how to interpret regulations, avoid civil and criminal liability, and learn the tools necessary to implement proper safety training and an effective safety program.
NASP will be running its next HAZWOPER Train-The-Trainer course from April 24-28, 2023, in Houston, TX. It takes a deep dive into the HAZWOPER standard, with practical hands-on demonstrations to help attendees get to grips with the regulation. Topics include employee training, emergency response procedures, decontamination, personal protective equipment, as well as spill and leak control. To book your place, visit the website.
For more general inquiries about the services offered by NASP, click here. Remember, NACD members can also receive a 10 percent discount on NASP’s online courses at www.NASPWeb.com.
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