Fort. Myers, Florida
In May 2024, the ICWUC Center for Worker Health and Safety Education (Center) successfully conducted a 40-hour HAZWOPER (Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response) class under the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. This intensive two-week program covered various crucial topics, providing participants with comprehensive training to build resiliency and skills to prepare and respond to emergencies. The curriculum included both theoretical learning and practical exercises. Participants were trained to utilize and interpret multiple resources, followed by hands-on simulations. The practical portion involved a scenario simulating a post-flood or post-hurricane response, where participants learned how to safely enter, clean, and remove mold in a controlled environment. They worked in pairs to demonstrate safely sealing off a contaminated room without affecting other areas. The participants' performance exceeded all expectations. Their enthusiasm for knowledge and active participation made this one of the most engaging training sessions ever conducted. Special thanks go to Roy McAllister, the UFCW's Director of Health and Safety, whose experience and expertise significantly enriched the program. Joycelyn Scott, one of our top trainers, met the high standards we uphold at the Center with her meticulous preparation and delivery. Joel Alvarez, the OSHA Coordinator for the Center, proved to be an invaluable asset, effectively inspiring participants to embrace safety practices. As the Center's Field Training Coordinator, I, Justin Tristan, organized this program. I am grateful to the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), our funding source, for their support and confidence in the Center to deliver such extraordinary programs.