EPA and DIR Issue Critical Updates on Wildfire Hazardous Material Cleanup

In response to the recent catastrophic wildfires in California, both the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) have released significant updates regarding hazardous material (HAZMAT) cleanup efforts. These updates highlight the need for proper training and compliance for those involved in post-wildfire cleanup operations as well as other important topics. Read below to learn more.

EPA Launches Largest Wildfire Hazardous Waste Removal Effort in History

The EPA has embarked on its largest-ever wildfire hazardous material cleanup operation, deploying over 1,000 response personnel to assist in the removal of toxic materials left behind by the fires. As of February 2025, the agency has:

Completed assessments at over 6,000 properties impacted by wildfires
Removed over 80 electric vehicles and energy storage systems posing environmental risks
Deployed 60 teams to clear hazardous debris from 13,000 residential properties and 250 commercial sites

The cleanup focuses on safely removing hazardous debris such as asbestos, lead-based paint, batteries, pesticides, propane tanks, and industrial chemicals—all of which pose serious risks to workers and nearby communities.

Read the full EPA report here

DIR Issues Critical Guidance for Worker Safety

With thousands of cleanup workers and contractors mobilized, California DIR has reinforced Title 8, Section 5192 (HAZWOPER), which requires:

A clear site safety plan before any work begins
Comprehensive hazard assessments to identify risks such as airborne contaminants and unstable structures
Proper training for all workers and supervisors handling hazardous materials
Respiratory protection and PPE requirements to minimize exposure to toxic substances
Strict decontamination procedures to prevent cross-contamination and long-term health issues

Failure to comply with these regulations can result in severe penalties and worker injuries, making proper training not only a legal requirement but a life-saving necessity.

Read the full DIR guidance here

Get Certified with NATEC International, Inc. – Industry-Leading HAZMAT, ENVIRONMENTAL & SAFETY Training

With the increased demand for trained professionals in wildfire and disaster-related HAZMAT cleanup, NATEC International, Inc. offers top-tier certification programs designed to keep workers safe, compliant, and prepared for real-world hazardous cleanup operations.

Our Training Programs:

40-Hour HAZWOPER General Site Worker Training
Essential for workers involved in HAZMAT cleanup, this OSHA-certified course covers site safety, hazard recognition, decontamination, and emergency response procedures.

24-Hour HAZWOPER Occasional Site Worker Training
Ideal for those with limited exposure to hazardous materials, focusing on PPE, site safety, and emergency procedures.

Respirator Fit Testing & Training
Ensures workers are using properly fitted respirators to protect against toxic airborne contaminants.

First Aid/CPR/AED Training
Critical life-saving skills for emergency responders and hazardous waste professionals working in high-risk environments.

Accredited Asbestos Training Courses
Specialized instruction on asbestos identification, abatement, and safety procedures, crucial for handling fire-damaged structures built before 1980.

Why Train with NATEC International, Inc.?

Over 35 years of industry leadership in environmental, health, and safety training
Courses led by experienced HAZMAT professionals, including former firefighters and emergency responders
Hands-on training and real-world simulations tailored to wildfire and disaster cleanup scenarios
Multiple locations across California with flexible schedules

Take Action – Enroll Today!

As wildfire and HAZMAT cleanup efforts continue to intensify, ensuring proper training is critical for your safety, compliance, and career advancement.

Secure your spot today!
Visit www.natecintl.com or call 1-800-969-3228 to enroll in our upcoming training sessions.

Be Prepared. Stay Safe. Get Certified.

NATEC International, Inc.
Setting the Standard in Fire & Hazardous Material Cleanup Training