Hazardous materials and waste are part of many work situations, and can be found in many types of facilities. OSHA feels that it is so important for employees to know how to recognize these potentially dangerous substances (as well as how to handle and dispose of them properly) they have mandated that anyone working with these substances receive comprehensive training in this area.

In 1976, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) to regulate the handling of hazardous waste "from cradle to grave". Since then other regulations have followed, including OSHA's 29 CFR 1910.120, also known as HAZWOPER. As part of these HAZWOPER Regulations, there are several requirements for employee training that depends on the specific level of involvement with hazardous materials.

AB Defense System's "HAZWOPER: General Training Package" provides employees with the information they need to understand the major areas covered by the regulation. The package of twelve programs provides the basis for the special training required by OSHA for HAZMAT employees who are unlikely to be exposed to hazards in excess of permissible exposure limits, and includes: