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Tuesday, March 19, 2024
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Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner® (CHMP®)
IHMM’s Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner (CHMP®) credential recognizes the highest standard of proficiency for front-line hazardous materials workers. Acquiring the CHMP credential will provide added assurance to both you and your employer of the secure and proper handling and management of hazardous materials in the workplace.
A CHMP® credential signals a level of competence and skill that is in high demand among employers today.
IHMM Credential Recognition
Below you will see the credential badges that are now in each CHMM, CHMP, CDGT, CDGP, AHMM, Student CHMM, CSHM, CSMP, CSSM, ASHM and Student ASHM certificant’s MYIHMM account. Every IHMM certificant may use these badges, linked as those below are to their IHMM credential page, for their email signatures, business cards, and other social media applications. You’re justifiably proud of the accomplishment of having earned your credential and you can show the rest of the world. Simply right-click on the badge of choice, then save as to your computer, and then load it to wherever you want to use it, and please link that back to https://ihmm.org/.
Hazardous Materials / Dangerous Goods Transportation Credentials
Certified Hazardous Materials Manager
Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner
Certified Dangerous Goods Professional
Associate Hazardous Materials Manager
Certified Dangerous Goods Trainer
Student Certified Hazardous Materials Manager
EHS / Workplace Safety Credentials
Certified Safety & Health Manager
Certified Safety Management Practitioner
Associate Safety & Health Manager
Student Associate Safety & Health Manager
Certified School Safety Manager
Microcredentials
Certified Pandemic Preparedness Specialist
IHMM Certificant Recognition
Throughout our certificant’s MYIHMM accounts are placed 10 Year, 20 Year, and 30 Year badges signifying their longevity as an IHMM certified professional.
With a link from your credential badge to the IHMM website [see above] you can not only stand out as an IHMM-certified professional, you can also promote IHMM credentials to others. Right-click on the badge of choice, save as to your computer, then load it to whatever medium you choose.
IHMM has Distinguished Diplomates and Fellows of the Institute badges to the appropriate people in the MYIHMM database. These two badges are accompanied by lapel pins sent to each of those distinguished by holding these designations.
IHMM is in all 50 of the United States and in 85 countries around the World.
IHMM Credentials Accredited By
Need Help? On the IHMM website just click on the “NEED HELP?” button
and let us know what you need and the right person will get right back with you.
IHMM RECENT NEWS
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS/DANGEROUS GOODS
Biden-Harris Administration finalizes ban on ongoing uses of asbestos to protect people from cancer
Leachate leak occurs at Vermont landfill
Plastic chemicals are more numerable and less regulated than previously thought: Report
EPA announces stricter rules to prevent chemicals incidents
EPA Settles Chemical Accident Prevention Case in New Bedford
EPA announces final rule to slash toxic emissions of ethylene oxide and reduce cancer risk
EPA finalizes commonsense standards to limit air toxic pollution at gasoline distribution facilities
PFAS Regulatory Developments: Cleanup, Disposal, Testing and Reporting Issues [Video]
D.C. Circuit Delivers EPA a Loss on Startup, Shutdown, and Malfunction Waivers under the Clean Air Act
Senate Committee Will Hold Hearing on Examining PFAS as Hazardous Substances
PHMSA Publishes Final Rule HM-219D
Lithium Battery Air Safety Advisory Committee Meets April 25, 2024
EHS/WORKPLACE SAFETY
The Occupational Safety Health Administration (OSHA) has published a new OSHA Hazard Alert on Severe Injuries in the Food Processing Industry
Balfour Beatty, C.J. Coakley sued for alleged wage theft on Virginia jobsite
New construction technology releases: March 2024
Florida bill aims to ban local mandates for heat protection
What to watch as DOL’s independent contractor rule takes effect
Think you know ladder safety?
Five principles for creating a risk-based decision-making culture
The Federal Advisory Council on Occupational Safety and Health (FACOSH) will meet on April 18, 2024 from 1:00 pm. to 4:00 pm, ET, via WebEx. Individuals may submit comments and requests to speak by April 5, 2024, identified by Docket No. OSHA-2023-0012, electronically at https://www.regulations.gov, which is the Federal e-Rulemaking Portal
OSHA Concludes Employer’s Negligence Led to Fatal Forklift Incident
After record number of heat deaths in ’23, OSHA ups worker education
OSHA Cites Atlanta Chemical Manufacturer for 67 Serious Violations
Inside IHMM
Congratulations Nancy!
IHMM proudly congratulates Nancy McClellan, M.P.H., CIH, CHMM for being elected vice president in the recently concluded AIHA Board of Directors election. Following her service as vice president, McClellan will progress to the offices of president-elect, president, and past president. Each of these positions is for a one-year term. McClellan, the current AIHA treasurer, is the principal industrial hygiene expert and CEO of Occupational Health Management Inc. in Waterford, Michigan.
The new officers’ terms will begin on May 22 at AIHA Connect 2024 in Columbus, Ohio. See you there, Nancy.
AIHA and IHMM are affiliated organizations and we appreciate the industrial hygiene-related education courses on our Hazardous Materials Society platform supporting our CHMM, CHMP, CSHM, and CSMP credentials.
IHMM Enters Its 40th Year
On December 3, 1984 the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management was created with the Certified Hazardous Materials Manager® [CHMM®] credential. John H. Frick, Harold M. Gordon, John J. McCambridge, and Richard A. Young created what would become an Institute that offers 11 professional credentials across Hazardous Materials/Dangerous Goods and EHS Work Place Safety communities of practice in all 50 of the United States and 85 other countries.
IHMM thanks its hundreds of volunteer leaders, thousands of certificants and companies who support IHMM through strengthening its ability to extend its reach and allow us all to live up to why we exist our vision, and our mission…
Why We Exist
We believe there is only one Earth; our passion is to protect it.
Our Vision
IHMM credentials and competency standards are embraced worldwide
Our Mission
IHMM sets standards of excellence for professional credentials to advance the global environmental, health, and safety communities of practice.
#1 – Recertification Video
#2 Recertification Video
IHMM Recertification Videos
IHMM is pleased to release two YouTube instructional videos about navigating the IHMM recertification process. These step-by-step videos easily enable IHMM certificants to start and complete a recertification application.
While the full recertification cycle is 5 years, IHMM encourages all certificants to start a recertification application and add certification maintenance points as they are earned to make the final submission quick and easy to accomplish.
Full recertification information is found here >> https://ihmm.org/credentials/#recertification
Questions about your recertification may be made to either Jimmy Nguyen [email protected] of Jelian Larbi [email protected]
The Dr. John H Frick Memorial IHMM Scholarship Program – Deadline 10/18/2024
The Institute of Hazardous Materials Management is pleased to have created $32,000 in academic scholarships, divided equally between $16,000 for students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate education in approved schools and who are also Student CHMMs, and $16,000 for students enrolled in undergraduate or graduate education in approved schools and who are also Student ASHMs.
IHMM seeks to foster the growth and academic success of students whose courses of education, and participation in one of our Student certifications, will lead to those students becoming fully-certified IHMM credential holders later in their professional lives.
Go to > https://ihmm.org/scholarship/
A Collaborative Culture
There are 1,267 different conversations going on in the IHMM/HMS Collaboration platform this week.
A collaborative culture is important for every business but is especially important for our hazardous materials, dangerous goods, environment, health, and safety communities of practice. Do you have a problem you need to solve and want the opinions of your colleagues? This is where we come together to help each other.
IHMM credentialed professionals are at the top 1% of their professions and their reach is global. We are at the forefront of environmental protection, health, and safety and this is where collaborating with the best people in their fields, always willing to help one another, lessens the stress of our jobs, and where we strive as a team to make a difference of which we are proud.
We opened COLLABORATION to enable thousands of certificants and supporters to collaborate together.
You can collaborate here.
Access to COLLABORATION is through the same username/password you use to access your MYIHMM account. Having a problem? Contact Jimmy Nguyen at [email protected]
IHMM Organizing Broader Government Affairs Activities – Call for Volunteers
In strategic planning on August 17, 2023 IHMM created a strategic imperative to create a broader government affairs operation on behalf of, and with the assistance of, all of IHMM’s certificants.
- Federal Government – Regulatory
We need a group of people watching Federal regulatory developments to advise when taking action can be helpful and raise our visibility in the agencies. - Federal Government – Congress
We need a group of people watching legislation to advise us when taking action can be helpful and raise our visibility in Congress.
- State Governments – Regulatory
We need a group of people watching state regulatory developments to advise when taking action can be helpful and raise our visibility in the agencies. - State Governments – Legislatures
We need a group of people watching legislation to advise us when taking action can be helpful and raise our visibility in state legislatures.
If you want to make a difference in the recognition of your credentials and build on the successful record we have achieved thus far – we need you to volunteer. Learn more by visiting our Government Affairs Committee page, and get involved with government affairs. You can volunteer for one, two, three or all four of the segments of the committee’s work. That’s up to you!
IHMM CHMMⓇ 2022 Salary Survey
IHMM is pleased to release its 2022 salary survey for Certified Hazardous Materials ManagersⓇ [CHMMⓇ] across a broad range of position titles in the CHMMⓇ community of practice.
You may download the CHMM survey here.
IHMM CSHMⓇ 2022 Salary Survey
IHMM is pleased to release its 2022 salary survey for Certified Safety and Health Managers Ⓡ [CSHMⓇ] across a broad range of position titles in the CSHMⓇ community of practice.
You may download the CSHM survey here.
IHMM – 26 Fellows Are Mentors
IHMM Fellows Committee Chair Atanu Das, CHMM, is leading the effort within the IHMM Collaboration networking platform to engage both 26 IHMM Fellows as Mentors and anyone who seeks some assistance as Mentees.
Given the extraordinary experience Fellows have, this is a unique opportunity for IHMM Fellows to help guide more recent certificants in their professional development activities. This article from ASAE magazine outlines how a mentoring program can become more successful – engagement!
IHMM’s Collaboration platform contains a “Mentor Match” module [see below at right] that allows mentors to signup designating the hours, number of mentees, subject areas, and length of time they wish to mentor – as well as allowing mentees to signup requesting assistance in specified areas. The mentor match module does the rest by matching mentors and mentees.
IHMM Government Affairs
IHMM Proposes Changes in Government Recognition of Credentials
State of Maine Department of Environmental Protection is proposing to update Chapter 851, Standards for Generators of Hazardous Waste. In the current regulation work is required by a professional engineer. IHMM is proposing to include an environmental professional as defined by 40 CFR §312.10.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration has a number of courses in occupational safety and health within which OSHA credits “A degree in occupational safety and health, a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) designation.” IHMM will propose including the CHMM, CSHM, and CSMP.
IHMM met with OSHA on March 15, 2024 on OSHA #501 – Trainer Course in Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry. We appreciate the time OSHA took in reviewing its prerequisites to take a train the trainer course #501, and we arrived at the following analysis in relation to the IHMM CHMM, CSHM, and CSMP:
Students must complete the OSHA #511 Occupational Safety and Health Standards for General Industry and have five (5) years of safety and health work experience in general industry. A degree in occupational safety and health, a Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or a Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) designation may be substituted for two (2) years of work-related experience. Students should obtain guidance on whether they meet this requirement from the OSHA Training Institute Education Center where they intend to receive the training. Authorized OSHA General Industry Outreach Training Program trainers are required to attend OSHA #503 Update for General Industry Outreach Trainers at least once every four (4) years to maintain their trainer status.
- The CHMM prerequisites express a preference for a 4-year degree in applied sciences, though a Bachelor’s in other disciplines is fine, and if the CHMM has a 4-year degree in an OSH [occupational safety and health] discipline then that can be used to take 2 years off of the 5 years of required experience – and the 3 years of experience after that has to be in an OSH-related field. OSHA correctly pointed out that the CHMM is substantially an environmentally-based credential except Domain #12, which is 10% of the credential.
- All of IHMM’s CSHMs qualify today and can use the CSHM to substitute for 2 of the 5 years of experience required, though the remaining 3 years needs to be in an OSH-related field.
- None of the IHMM CSMPs qualify unless they have a 4-year OSH degree, then they can use that to substitute for 2 of the 5 years of experience required, though the remaining 3 years need to be in an OSH-related field.
- On March 18, 2024, IHMM joined in a letter with the International Safety Equipment Association [ISEA] and other groups to the Governor of Florida concerning HB 433 and the state’s heat stress legislation. This concern is based on ASSPs new 10.50 Heat Stress Program Standard
- On March 18, 2024, IHMM joined a letter with the National Safety Council [NSC] supporting OSHA and NIOSH funding for FY2025
Beltway Buzz, Ogletree Deakins
Latest Government Shutdown Avoided. Another week in Washington, D.C., and our legislators have avoided yet another shutdown. At least this time, there seems to be a bit of a plan to put a bow on this debate once and for all (until, of course, discussions begin for the fiscal year (FY) 2025 spending kickoff). Here is what happened this week. With spending for certain government functions set to expire on March 1, 2024, the U.S. Congress passed—and President Biden signed—a continuing resolution that will extend six government funding bills (including funding for the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)) until March 8, 2024, and a remaining six bills (including funding for the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) and the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB)) until March 22, 2024. There is still a ways to go before this matter is completely wrapped up, but the initial threat of a federal shutdown this week has been avoided.
Senate Committee (Barely) Approves Su (Again). On February 27, 2024, during a closed-door meeting, the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) voted to advance the nomination of Julie Su to be secretary of labor. The 11–10 party-line vote (with no Republicans voting for Su) was the second time the HELP Committee had voted to approve Su’s nomination (and with an identical vote tally). In a speech this week on the floor of the U.S. Senate, Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA), ranking member of the committee, noted that since Su’s original nomination in 2023, “concerns over Ms. Su’s leadership of DOL have grown.” Senator Cassidy also noted that he had made a formal request of Committee Chair Bernie Sanders (I-VT) to hold a hearing for Su, but “the Chair denied our request and is instead ramming through Ms. Su’s nomination behind closed doors without a full public hearing in the Committee.” Senator Cassidy continued, “The Chair’s decision to not hold a public hearing on Ms. Su is unacceptable and shows a lack of transparency from the Majority. It undermines the Committee’s constitutional duty to advise and consent on presidential nominees.” The next step for Su is a vote on the Senate floor, though it is unclear how or why she may have the necessary votes this time around.
EEOC Announces 2023 EEO-1 Reporting Window. The EEOC has announced that the 2023 EEO-1 Component 1 data collection will open on April 30, 2024, and employers will have until June 4, 2024, to file their reports. Of course, the Buzz will be watching for future attempts by the Commission to amend the EEO-1 report to require the disclosure of employee wage and hours worked data. To that end, in approving this EEO-1 information collection, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) noted the following: “OMB also recommends that EEOC seek the input of affected stakeholders about any revisions as early as possible, and provide respondents with ample notice before making revisions in order to minimize burdens.” James A. Patton, Jr., and Kiosha H. Dickey have the details.
H-1B Registration Kicks Off With New Process. The FY 2025 H-1B cap lottery selection process will open at noon on Wednesday, March 6, 2024. Pursuant to the rule finalized by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on February 2, 2024, (“Improving the H-1B Registration Selection Process and Program Integrity”), the beneficiary-centric selection procedure will be implemented for H-1B visa holders, in which “[e]ach unique beneficiary who has a registration submitted on their behalf will be entered into the selection process once, regardless of how many registrations are submitted on their behalf.” The changes are intended to increase the integrity of the process and reduce fraud.
OSHA Reporting Deadline. March 2, 2024, is the deadline for covered employers to electronically submit their required injury and illness reporting information to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
OFCCP Seeks Fed Contractor Data. In a surprise move that was not forecasted in recent regulatory agendas, late last week the Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs (OFCCP) published a notice of its intent to resurrect the Monthly Employment Utilization Report (CC–257). According to the notice, “With the proposed CC– 257, construction contractors will provide information on employee work hours and employee count by race/ ethnicity, gender, and trade in the covered area.” Covered construction contractors would be required to provide this information to OFCCP on a monthly basis. Despite the proposed change in policy and the potential costly burden on contractors, OFCCP is proposing this change via the Paperwork Reduction Act, rather than through the Administrative Procedure Act’s rulemaking process. Emily M. Halliday and Lauren B. Hicks have the details.
Regulatory Updates
- Department of Labor Issues its Fall 2023 Regulatory Agenda – Read more here
- Environmental Protection Agency Issues its Fall 2023 Regulatory Agenda – Read more here
- Department of Transportation Issues Fall 2023 Regulatory Agenda – Read more here
Professional Certification Coalition
IHMM is a member of the PCC. The PCC monitors state and federal legislative and regulatory activity affecting professional certification on an ongoing basis. The PCC has compiled several “Watchlists” identifying and analyzing provisions in pending legislation at both the state and federal level that, under applicable rules, may still be enacted in the current legislative session. Depending on the carry-over rules in the relevant legislature, the charts listing current legislation may include bills introduced in a prior year. In addition, the PCC compiles each year a chart of enacted legislation that affects certification. The charts include hyperlinks to every bill or executive order. Note that the Watchlist and the Enacted Legislation document do not include profession-specific legislation and do not include regulatory initiatives. The charts will be updated as needed based on new developments.
State legislation tracked this week…
Important Stories for IHMM Certificants
PHMSA Letters of Interpretation
On March 22, 2022, PHMSA announced an initiative to convert historical letters of interpretation (LOI) applicable to the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) that have been issued to specific stakeholders into broadly applicable frequently asked questions (FAQ). On December 9, 2022, PHMSA published the first set of FAQ regarding applicability of the HMR. On August 18, 2023, PHMSA published the second set of FAQ regarding incident reporting. Today’s notice contains the third set of FAQ regarding training requirements.
DATES: Interested persons are invited to submit comments on or before April 12, 2024. Comments received after that date will be considered to the extent practicable
PHMSA Hazardous Materials: Clarification of Applications for Special Permits Submitted in the Public Interest
PHMSA is publishing this notice to inform interested parties on how PHMSA evaluates and determines whether a special permit can be considered consistent with the public interest. This notice outlines the criteria PHMSA used to evaluate special permit applications on the basis of public interest.
PHMSA Hazardous Materials: Request for Comments on Issues Concerning International Atomic Energy Agency Regulations for the Safe Transport of Radioactive Materials
PHMSA and the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission are jointly seeking comments on issues concerning requirements in the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) regulations for the safe transport of radioactive materials. The IAEA is considering revisions to their regulations as part of its periodic review cycle for a new edition of those regulations. DATES: Submit comments by April 15, 2024. Comments received after this date will be considered if it is practical to do so; however, we are only able to assure consideration for proposals received on or before this date.
PHMSA Hazardous Materials: Adoption of Miscellaneous Petitions and Updating Regulatory Requirements
PHMSA amends the Hazardous Materials Regulations (HMR) to update, clarify, improve the safety of, or streamline various regulatory requirements. Specifically, this rulemaking responds to 18 petitions for rulemaking submitted by the regulated community between May 2018 and October 2020 that requests PHMSA address a variety of provisions, including but not limited to those addressing packaging, hazard communication, and the incorporation by reference of certain documents. These revisions maintain or enhance the existing high level of safety under the HMR while providing clarity and appropriate regulatory flexibility in the transport of hazardous materials.
DATES: Effective date: This final rule is effective on April 3, 2024. Delayed compliance date: March 4, 2025. Incorporation by reference date: The incorporation by reference of certain publications listed in this final rule is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of April 3, 2024.
2024 National Safety Stand Down to Prevent Falls in Construction
In advance of the 11th Annual National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Falls in Construction on May 6 – 10, 2024, we want to share several new tools and resources to assist workplaces in preparing for and participating in the Stand-Down, as well as ways to get involved:
- 2024 Fall Stand Down Poster
- 2024 Stand-Down officially announced:
- February 1, 2024 OSHA QuickTakes
- Resources and Handouts:
- 2024 Fall Stand-Down Poster (English/Spanish) (also attached)
- Hardhat Stickers and Hazard Alert Cards
- Get Involved:
- If you plan to host a free event that is open to the public and want to post your event on OSHA’s webpage, you may submit the event details here or contact your Regional Stand-Down Coordinator to learn more.
- Do you have fall prevention resources in other languages? We would love to include them in our Fall Prevention Resources: Additional Languages Page. Please send resources to Jessica Bunting: [email protected]
As a reminder, anyone who wants to prevent fall hazards in the workplace can participate in the Stand-Down. Companies can conduct a Safety Stand-Down by taking a break for a toolbox talk or other safety activities such as conducting safety equipment inspections, developing rescue plans, or discussing job-specific hazards. Consider planning a stand-down event that works for your workplace. See Highlights from Past Stand-Downs.
Reconsideration of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards for Particulate Matter
Based on the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA’s) reconsideration of the air quality criteria and the national ambient air quality standards (NAAQS) for particulate matter (PM), the EPA is revising the primary annual PM2.5standard by lowering the level from 12.0 µg/m3 to 9.0 µg/m3 . The Agency is retaining the current primary 24-hour PM2.5standard and the primary 24-hour PM10 standard. The Agency also is not changing the secondary 24-hour PM2.5standard, secondary annual PM2.5 standard, and secondary 24-hour PM10 standard at this time. The EPA is also finalizing revisions to other key aspects related to the PM NAAQS, including revisions to the Air Quality Index (AQI) and monitoring requirements for the PM NAAQS.
DATES:
This final rule is effective May 6, 2024.
EPA Amends Risk Management Program Requirements to Protect At-Risk Communities from Chemical Accidents
On March 1, 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its “Safer Communities by Chemical Accident Prevention Rule” (SCCAP Rule), amending the Risk Management Program (RMP) “to further protect vulnerable communities from chemical accidents, especially those living near facilities in industry sectors with high accident rates.” The rule implements sweeping amendments to the RPM. It reflects the culmination of three public hearings, many comments on EPA’s proposed rule issued in August 2022, and the efforts of many spanning administrations going back to President Obama. EPA notes that the final rule includes new safeguards such as identifying inherently safer technologies and chemical alternatives, requiring implementation of safeguard measures in certain cases, more thorough incident investigations, and third-party auditing. EPA states that these updates “should benefit nearby communities by reducing the frequency of chemical releases and their adverse effects.” EPA has posted a pre-publication version of the final rule. The final rule will take effect 60 days after publication in the Federal Register. For more information, please read the full memorandum.
EPA – Accidental Release Prevention Requirements
EPA issued a final rule amending its Risk Management Program regulations with regard to requirements for the accident prevention program, improvements to the emergency preparedness requirements, and improvements to the public availability of chemical hazard information.
Effective May 10.
EPA – Standards of Performance for New, Reconstructed, and Modified Sources and Emissions Guidelines for Existing Sources: Oil and Natural Gas Sector Climate Review
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is finalizing multiple actions to reduce air pollution emissions from the Crude Oil and Natural Gas source category. First, the EPA is finalizing revisions to the new source performance standards (NSPS) regulating greenhouse gases (GHGs) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emissions for the Crude Oil and Natural Gas source category pursuant to the Clean Air Act (CAA). Second, the EPA is finalizing emission guidelines (EG) under the CAA for states to follow in developing, submitting, and implementing state plans to establish performance standards to limit GHG emissions from existing sources (designated facilities) in the Crude Oil and Natural Gas source category. Third, the EPA is finalizing several related actions stemming from the joint resolution of Congress, adopted on June 30, 2021, under the Congressional Review Act (CRA), disapproving the EPA’s final rule titled, “Oil and Natural Gas Sector: Emission Standards for New, Reconstructed, and Modified Sources Review,” September 14, 2020 (“2020 Policy Rule”). Fourth, the EPA is finalizing a protocol under the general provisions for optical gas imaging (OGI).
DATES:
This final rule is effective on May 7, 2024. The incorporation by reference (IBR) of certain publications listed in the rules is approved by the Director of the Federal Register as of May 7, 2024.
Public Comment Period on Draft Guidance for Future CSO Permitting
On February 20, 2024, EPA announced in the Federal Register that it is seeking public comment on the Draft Guidance for Future National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permits for Combined Sewer Systems. This draft guidance highlights the available paths forward for permitting communities with combined sewer overflows (CSOs) at the next stage in their programs. It summarizes options under the Clean Water Act that are articulated in the original 1994 CSO Control Policy as well as the option to use EPA’s 2012 Integrated Planning Framework to look holistically at future investments.
Comments on the draft guidance can be submitted at http://www.regulations.gov under Docket ID: EPA–HQ–OW–2023–0475. The comment period ends on March 21, 2024.
For any questions related to this announcement, please contact [email protected].
EPA – Standards of Performance for New Stationary Sources and Emission Guidelines for Existing Sources: Large Municipal Waste Combustors Voluntary Remand Response and 5-Year Review
The EPA is proposing amendments to the new source performance standards (NSPS) and emission guidelines (EG) for large municipal waste combustion (MWC) units. These proposed amendments reflect the results from a reevaluation of the maximum achievable control technology (MACT) floor levels, a 5-year review, and the removal of startup, shutdown and malfunction exclusions and exceptions. These proposed amendments also streamline regulatory language, revise recordkeeping and electronic notification and reporting requirements, re-establish new and existing source applicability dates, clarify requirements for certain air curtain incinerators, close a 2007 proposed reconsideration action, correct certain typographical errors, make certain technical corrections, and clarify certain provisions in the NSPS and EG. These proposed amendments would revise all emission limits in the EG, except for carbon monoxide (CO) limits for two subcategories of combustors, and all nine emission limits in the NSPS. The EPA is reevaluating the MACT floors in response to the EPA’s voluntary remand of the large MWC rules following a petitioner’s request that the EPA review the MACT floors for large MWC units in consideration of a D.C. Circuit Court decision on MACT floor issues. The 5-year review is required by the Clean Air Act (CAA). The proposed amendments would result in an estimated 14,000 tons per year reduction in regulated pollutants.
DATES:
Comments must be received on or before March 25, 2024. Under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA), comments on the information collection provisions are best assured of consideration if the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) receives a copy of your comments on or before February 22, 2024.
Public hearing: If anyone contacts us requesting a public hearing on or before January 29, 2024, we will hold a virtual public hearing. See SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION for information on requesting and registering for a public hearing.
Understanding Firearm-Related Injury and School Violence |
| In the final episode of our podcast series, we are joined by Dr. Cynthia Ewell Foster. Our discussion focuses on youth suicide prevention methods and the importance of community engagement in preventing firearm-related injury and youth suicide. |
Expert Video: School Threat Assessment in Florida
In this video, Dr. Jenn Maeng presents findings from a new technical report on threat assessment. The report examines Florida threat assessment case data from the 2021-2022 school year, highlighting outcomes for over 22,000 cases.
______________________________________________________________________________________________________________
- 4/4 – Preventing Mass Attacks in Our Communities Webinar Hosted by the U.S. Secret Service National Threat Assessment Center
Complying with the Surface Sampling Requirements of USP 800
In the intricate world of healthcare and pharmacy operations, ensuring a safe environment for both patients and staff is paramount. The handling of hazardous drugs (HDs) presents a unique set of challenges, particularly in preventing contamination and exposure. The United States Pharmacopeia (USP) Chapter 800 provides standards for the safe handling of HDs to minimize the risks of exposure and contamination. A critical aspect of adhering to these standards involves surface sampling, a process that ensures work environments are free from HD residues. This introduction to the surface sampling requirements of USP 800 also explores the innovative solution provided by the Bureau Veritas ChemoAlert surface sampling kit for hazardous drug testing.
Highlights from February Biocidal Products Committee meeting
Next steps for PFAS restriction proposal
Current activities on restrictions: formaldehyde guidelines
Consultation on harmonised classification and labelling
Safer Chemicals Podcast: One Health approach – part 2
Reminder: Public hearing on SCHEER guidelines on presence of phthalates in certain medical devices
Nanopinion: Hybrid metrology approach for nanomaterials characterisation
IHMM Credential Recognition
The highest priority of IHMM’s Government Affairs Committee is the recognition of IHMM’s credentials by government. We have made substantial progress in the two years we have undertaken this endeavor, as outlined in detail here > https://ihmm.org/credential-recognition/
In this project we have 45-in-5, increasing the number of states that recognize IHMM credentials.
- We have already succeeded in 13 states – New York, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, Indiana, California, Colorado, Nebraska, Minnesota, Arkansas, Oklahoma. Ohio, North Dakota, and Georgia. [Red states in the map above]. These are states where IHMM credentials are cited or 40 CFR 312.10 is cited by reference.
- We have partially succeeded in another 16 states – Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Arizona, Kansas, Iowa, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Florida, Delaware, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Maine. [Orange/Black Stripe states in the map above] These are states where the requirements of an “environmental professional” or QEP are cited that coincide with an IHMM credential so that relatively little work would need to be done to clarify the desired outcome.
- We have 21 states where no reference to an IHMM credential is made in either statute or regulation, nor is there anything defined in the area of an environmental professional. These states will require legislation or regulatory work. [Yellow states in the map above].
in January 2022 Gene Guilford released the 40 CFR § 312.10 EPA regulation that states a private certification that meets or exceeds the requirements of the regulation is an Environmental Professional under the regulation. Here is the crosswalk between the 40 CFR § 312.10 EPA regulation and the Certified Hazardous Materials Manager [CHMM] blueprint. The CHMM meets or exceeds the requirements of an Environmental Professional.
Here’s what we ask each volunteer to do:
- Watch legislative and regulatory developments in your state that provide an opportunity for us to create amendments or other interventions
- Be willing to speak with regulators and legislators in your area about the recognition efforts we craft together
Retiring? IHMM Invites You to Become an Emeritus
You may have decided, after a long and successful career, to retire from active daily duty. Congratulations. That doesn’t mean you have to completely disengage from your profession. IHMM is pleased to offer Emeritus status to all certificants who will no longer be actively engaged in their communities of practice but who still want to stay in touch. Please let us know when you’re approaching that decision and we will assist you in the credential transition.
Please contact Jimmy Nguyen at [email protected] and he’ll be happy to help you.
News from IHMM Affiliates
National Safety Council
IHMM is a member of the National Safety Council and is pleased to bring this important information to all of our certificants.
NSC News
Think tank lists 10 strategies for countering rise in child labor violations
Respirator Fit Evaluation Challenge: NIOSH names Phase 2 winners
The push for a 4-day workweek resurfaces in Congress
Anhydrous ammonia tank failure spurs safety advisory
Florida legislature passes bill prohibiting local-level regulations on protecting workers from heat
MSHA releases tool to help miners with health care searches
NSC Webinars
Mar 21 – Visual AI: How Collision Avoidance Taps New Tech to Boost Safety
Mar 28 – How to Error-Proof Your Permit-to-Work Program
Apr 4 – Maximize Efficiency, Minimize Costs: The Power of Digital Orientation Programs
Apr 11 – From Compliance to Culture: Building a Foundation for Safety Maturity
Apr 18 – Hazardous and Universal Waste: Cradle-to-Grave, are you in compliance?
American Society of Safety Professionals
IHMM is a member of the American Society of Safety Professionals and is pleased to bring this important information to all of our certificants.
ASSP News
Mar 27 – How EHS Mobile Technology Can Elevate Safety & Boost Productivity
Mar 29 – Stand-Up for Standards: ANSI/ASSP Safety Management Systems
Apr 17 – April 2024 Leadership Conference Webinar
Apr 25-May 23 – ONLINE COURSE: Risk Assessment and Management for Safety Professionals
Apr 25-May 23 – ONLINE COURSE: Prevention through Design
ASSP Standards-Based Education
The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) will host a third installment of its workplace safety education series called “Stand Up for Standards.” A live two-hour webinar on safety management systems will take place at 11 a.m. CT on March 29, helping safety and health professionals create a road map for identifying hazards and eliminating risks to improve organizational performance.
“Stand Up for Standards: ANSI/ASSP Safety Management Systems” will provide an overview and implementation practices for the ANSI/ASSP Z10.0-2019 standard.
Safety experts Amy Timmerman, M.S., CSP, CHES, Danyle Hepler, CSP, CESCO, CPEA, Joe Wolfsberger, M.S., CSP, CIH, and Greg Zigulis, CSP, CIH, CHSP, will share real-world experiences and practical guidance to help attendees reduce injuries, illnesses and fatalities on work sites across various industries.
ASSP Standards News
- Approval of ISO 45004 FDIS [measurement] – December 2023 – Closed on January 10th and the results were sent to the TAG membership
- Approval of ISO 45001 Interpretation of Dec 2023
- The ISO 45006 ballot [pandemics] is currently out to adopt the document as an ANSI Registered Technical Report. The ballot for ISO 45006 will end on February 23rd
- Approval of NWIP [New Work Item Proposal] For Proposed ISO 45008 [remote workers]
The U.S. TAG to ANSI for ISO TC283 approved ISO 45002 and ISO 45006 as ANSI registered technical reports.
- ISO/ASSP TR 45002-2023: Occupational health and safety management systems – General guidelines for the implementation of ISO 45001:2018
- ISO/ASSP TR 45006-2023: Occupational health and safety management – Guidelines for organizations on preventing and managing infectious diseases
At this point, the adoption process is complete. We will conclude limited public review and then move forward with publication of ISO 45002 and ISO 45006 as an ANSI Registered Technical Report[s].
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS SOCIETY
IHMM and HMS
The graphic to the left illustrates the relationship between IHMM and HMS. IHMM formed HMS to serve IHMM’s certificants. IHMM offers a variety of professional credentials and HMS creates education and training programs to serve the applicants and certificants of those credentials.
HMS Jobs Board
Listing available jobs is free, and done on the HMS site here > Jobs – Hazardous Materials Society (hazmatsociety.org)
2024 PHMSA HMIT Grant 24 Hour DOT HAZMAT Training Schedule
These courses are 24 hours in length, are approved for 24 IHMM CMPs, and are FREE to attend. Available only as in-person training.
For Registration contact Mr. Raymond Davis, CHMM, IHMM Fellow, NPETE US DOT PHMSA HMIT Grant Project Coordinator/Instructor at [email protected]
CHEMTREC, HMS Training Partner, Adds Courses for IHMM Certificants
This week CHEMTREC has added its HAZWOPER 8-hour Refresher Training to the HMS Daily Training schedule. This HAZWOPER 8-hour Refresher Training is designed for individuals who need to refresh their existing 24-hour or 40-hour HAZWOPER certification. This course meets the requirements outlined in OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120 for 8 (eight) hours of annual refresher training for workers involved in the transport, storage, or handling of hazardous materials or hazardous waste.
See the CHEMTREC HAZWOPER 8-hour Refresher Training here!
CHEMTREC, an HMS training partner, has had 7 courses approved in advance for earning IHMM recertification certification maintenance points. We are pleased to promote these programs as reviewed and approved by the HMS Education and Training Committee. Thank you CHEMTREC, and thank to HMS’ Education and Training Committee.
| Daily | Ground Transportation for Carriers | Online |
| Daily | OSHA Hazard Communications Standard | Online |
| Daily | Shipping Lithium Batteries and Cells Training | Online |
| Daily | Hazmat General, Safety and Security Awareness Online Training Course | Online |
| Daily | IATA Dangerous Goods Online Training for Operations | Online |
| Daily | 49 CFR Training | Online |
| Daily | IATA Dangerous Goods Online Training for Operations Personnel | Online |
AIHA, HMS Training Partner, Adds Courses for IHMM Certificants
American Industrial Hygiene Association [AIHA] an HMS training partner, has added its first of many courses approved in advance for earning IHMM recertification certification maintenance points. We are pleased to promote these programs in support of IHMM certificants holding the CHMM, CHMP, CSHM, and CSMP credentials. Thank you, AIHA.
Bowen EHS, HMS Training Partner, Adds Courses for IHMM Certificants
Bowen EHS, an HMS training partner, has had 4 courses approved in advance for earning IHMM recertification certification maintenance points. We are pleased to promote these programs as reviewed and approved by the HMS Education and Training Committee, chaired by Diana Lundelius. Thank you Bowen EHS and thank to HMS’ Education and Training Committee.
Thank you Bowen EHS for contributing programs enabling IHMM certificants to engage in professional development and earn important CMPs! All three of the new Bowen EHS programs are available online and on demand.
| Daily | EPCRA Tier II Reporting | Online |
| Daily | CHMM Online Review | Online |
| Daily | Emergency Management Self-Paced PDC | Online |
| Daily | Acute Toluene Exposure Webinar | Online |
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Thank you Bowen EHS for contributing programs enabling IHMM certificants to engage in professional development and earn important CMPs! All three of the new Bowen EHS programs are available online and on demand.
Easily Find Courses to Help You Pass IHMM Credential Exams
A core mission of HMS is education and training. Part of that mission includes assembling the best and most effective courses to assist IHMM applicants in passing their IHMM credential exams.
CDGP® Prep Course
CE-1112: CDGP® Exam Prep – Columbia Southern University – Available On Demand
CHMM® Prep Courses
- Daily – CHMM® Online Review – Bowen
- Daily – CHMM® Prep Course – Institute of Safety & Systems Management
- Daily –Certified Hazardous Materials Managers (CHMM®) Exam Prep – SPAN Exam Prep, Division of ClickSafety
CSHM™ Prep Courses
CSMP™ Prep Courses
IHMM and HMS Tie Exam Preparation Together for Applicants
Every IHMM certification that requires an examination has a section of its website entitled Examination Preparation.
Connected to the Examination Preparation panel is a companion panel that is Find a Course to Prepare for the Exam.
You see the Find a Course to Prepare for the Exam panel from the CHMM site at left.
When you click on the Find a Course to Prepare for the Exam panel it takes the applicant directly to the HMS site where all CHMM prep courses may be found and chosen.
For the 427 CHMM applicants IHMM had on January 9, 2024, all 427 applicants looking for CHMM prep courses could see and choose their favored CHMM exam prep course. If your course is not on the HMS platform, none of the 427 CHMM applicants could find you.
If you want your CHMM prep course on the HMS platform so it can be found by IHMM CHMM applicants, contact Gene Guilford at [email protected]
HMS Makes Finding Courses to Earn CMPs Easy
Every year more than 1,600 IHMM certificants have to recertify their credentials, evidenced their continuing commitment to improvement and learning to elevate their professional credential.
Earning Certification Maintenance Points [CMPs] is illustrated under Recertification of Your Credential, that includes the Recertification Claims Manual – Appendix A, that details all of the ways a certificant may earn CMPs > https://ihmm.org/recertification-claims/
Having mastered that manual, how does an IHMM certificant find courses to earn CMPs?
HMS has made that simple and easy.
- Go to https://hazmatsociety.org/education-training/
- Scroll down until you see a row of buttons…click on the CMPs button
The system will then generate all of the courses on the HMS E&T platform with IHMM CMPs already attached.
The next developments by the HMS E&T committee will refine available courses’ CMPs by individual credential!
HMS Certified Dangerous Goods Professional [CDGP] Exam Prep
The Columbia Southern University/HMS CDGP prep course is found here on the Hazardous Materials Society [HMS] education and training website > https://hazmatsociety.org/training/ce-1112-cdgp-exam-prep/2022-02-02/
The CSU CDGP exam prep course is delivered entirely online and may be initiated by any CDGP applicant at any time. The CDGP applicant has up to 10 weeks to complete the prep course, though an extension of the 10 weeks may be requested from CSU directly. The CSU CDGP exam prep course contains 8 modules covering the 4 principle texts involved in the CDGP exam, as follows:
- UN Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, and
- International Civil Aviation Organization’s Technical Instructions (ICAO TI), and
- International Air Transport Association’s Dangerous Goods Regulations (IATA DGR), and the
- International Maritime Organization’s Dangerous Goods Code (IMDG Code).
More information on the IHMM Certified Dangerous Goods Professional [CDGP] credential may be found here > https://ihmm.org/cdgp/
Donate to HMS
One of the most important projects of the Hazardous Materials Society is our Scholarship Program.
HMS wants to make it as easy as possible for those who cannot always afford to participate in pursuing certification, or keeping up with professional development, or attending great conferences and receiving outstanding training. HMS does not solicit contributions from the general public. HMS does ask IHMM’s certificants and their companies and our education and training vendors to consider a contribution.
Here, through your generosity, you can make a difference in promoting the ability of those who can afford it least to become participants in our communities of practice.
It’s never too late to make a difference, so don’t let this opportunity to make a difference pass you by. Please consider a tax-deductible donation of $250, $500 or what you can to help build HMS’s effort to help others in our communities of practice.
Member Benefits of Hazardous Materials Society
99% of IHMM certificants are aware of the Hazardous Materials Society, which we appreciate. IHMM established the Hazardous Materials Society in order to support and provide services to IHMM certificants.
Did You Know?
Your company’s membership dues for Associate Membership in the Hazardous Materials Society (HMS) are 100% tax-deductible and your participation directly supports scholarship and education/training opportunities for professionals working in hazmat and EHS. Joining as an Associate Member expresses your commitment and your company’s leadership in giving back to our professional community. Join today to claim your tax deduction for the 2020 tax year while expressing your company’s professional affiliation and accessing tools for your marketing and business development plans.
As an IHMM certificant, you pay no dues to take advantage of IHMM’s Foundation at HMS. We do appreciate IHMM’s certificants encouraging their companies to contribute.
To learn more about what HMS is doing now and what they are planning for the future, please see the new Member Benefits page here.
Columbia Southern University
The Hazardous Materials Society [HMS] is a partner of Columbia Southern University. Columbia Southern University is an online university based in Orange Beach, Alabama, that strives to change and improve lives through higher education by enabling students to maximize their professional and personal potential.
A subsidiary of Columbia Southern Education Group, CSU offers online degree programs at the associate, bachelor, master, doctorate or certificate levels in a multitude of areas such as occupational safety and health, fire administration, criminal justice, business administration, human resource management, health care administration and more. CSU also features undergraduate and graduate certificate programs to provide focused training in specialized areas for adult learners.
Click on the CSU graphic at left and learn more about the professional development and degree program opportunities at CSU.
IHMM CONFERENCES For 2024
IHMM will attend and support a number of conferences and trade shows throughout 2024, virtually as well as in-person as resources allow. In 2023 IHMM participated in the Bay Area ASSP conference, Ohio Safety conference, COSTHA Annual Meeting, AIHA Conference & Trade Show, ASSP Annual Conference, CUHMMC, AHMP, National Safety Conference and FET
Are there conferences you believe IHMM should attend that are not named here? If so, let us know by sending an email to [email protected]
IHMM has a companion organization for which education and training programs are presented and delivered. The Hazardous Materials Society is IHMM’s Professional Association and HMS’ education and training website can be found here. These events are produced independently of IHMM, and their providers have no access to IHMM certification examinations or program information other than that which is publicly available.
IHMM AFFILIATIONS
9210 Corporate Boulevard, Suite 470
Rockville, Maryland, 20850
www.ihmm.org | [email protected]
Phone: 301-984-8969 | Fax: 301-984-1516