Which federal agency is responsible for enforcing the HAZWOPER standard?

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) is the federal agency responsible for enforcing the HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response) standard. The standard is designed to protect workers engaged in hazardous waste operations and emergency response actions. OSHA sets forth guidelines and regulations to ensure safety and health compliance for workers in environments where hazardous substances are present, thus making it the enforcing body for HAZWOPER.

OSHA's enforcement authority extends to a variety of workplace safety regulations, including those involving chemical exposure, hazardous materials management, and safety practices during emergency response. Therefore, it holds the responsibility for ensuring that organizations comply with HAZWOPER training, protective measures, and operational standards to avoid potential workplace injuries and health issues.

Other agencies have different roles in relation to hazardous materials. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) focuses primarily on environmental protection and regulating hazardous waste management practices. The Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) oversees nuclear material and waste, while the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates the transportation of hazardous materials. Each of these agencies plays a crucial role within their scope, but it is OSHA that specifically addresses worker safety in the context of hazardous waste operations and emergency response.