Common Ground Environmental, Inc. (CGE)

New Employee Safety Training Packet

 

 

Introduction

 

Welcome to Common Ground Environmental, Inc. Before entering the field, all employees must complete this safety training program. Our work involves hazardous and non-hazardous materials, confined spaces, environmental cleanup, and regulatory compliance. The purpose of this training is to provide you with the knowledge and awareness necessary to perform your duties safely and in compliance with federal and state regulations.

 

 

1. Regulatory Foundations

Key Agencies

• EPA (Environmental Protection Agency): Oversees environmental compliance and hazardous waste management.

• OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration): Ensures workplace safety standards.

• RCRA (Resource Conservation and Recovery Act): Governs the disposal of hazardous and non-hazardous waste.

Responsibilities

• Properly label all waste containers.

• Complete and review Bills of Lading before shipments.

• Follow EPA/OSHA rules for storage, handling, and disposal of materials.

Key Point: Non-compliance can result in fines, shutdowns, and personal liability.

 

 

2. Hazardous Waste Operations (HAZWOPER)

• 40-hour training required, with annual 8-hour refreshers.

• Covers:

  • Hazard recognition

  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

  • Decontamination procedures

  • Site control measures

  • Emergency response

Example: If you discover a leaking barrel of solvent, you must follow proper PPE protocols and notify your supervisor immediately.

 

 

3. Confined Space Safety

What is a Confined Space?

A space with limited entry/exit that is not designed for continuous occupancy (e.g., tanks, sewers, trenches).

Procedures

• Obtain a confined space permit before entry.

• Continuous air monitoring.

• Ventilation and rescue plans must be in place.

Reminder: Never enter a confined space alone.

 

 

4. Hazardous Materials Transportation (DOT Hazmat)

Labeling & Placards

• Follow Department of Transportation (DOT) rules for hazardous shipments.

• Ensure containers are sealed and labeled with the proper hazard class.

Documentation

• Bills of Lading must match container contents.

• Emergency contact numbers must be listed.

Scenario: If transporting corrosive material, ensure the corrosive placard is visible and documentation matches.

 

 

5. MSHA & Emergency Preparedness

MSHA Training

• Required for construction- or mining-like job sites.

• Covers hazard recognition, fall protection, and safe use of heavy equipment.

Emergency Preparedness

• Review evacuation routes at each site.

• Know the location of fire extinguishers, spill kits, and first aid stations.

Golden Rule: In emergencies, protect people first, then the environment, then equipment.

 

 

6. General Field Safety

PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)

• Hard hat

• Safety glasses/goggles

• Steel-toe boots

• Gloves (chemical or cut-resistant as required)

• High-visibility vest

Additional Practices

• Maintain hydration in hot weather.

• Use buddy system in hazardous areas.

• Always report near-misses and unsafe conditions.

 

 

7. First Aid and Medical Awareness

• CPR and First Aid certification recommended.

• Always know the location of the nearest medical facility.

• Report injuries immediately, no matter how minor.

 

 

8. Final Checklist Before Field Work

• Completed reading of this packet

• Passed safety training quiz

• Received PPE and inspected gear

• Signed acknowledgement form

Acknowledgement: I understand that safety is my responsibility. I will follow CGE procedures and immediately report unsafe conditions or incidents.

Signature: ______________________ Date: __________

Next Step

Proceed to the Safety Training Quiz. A passing score is required before you may enter the field.