The IAFF recognizes that every call is a potential HazMat call. Each year thousands of fire fighters are exposed to chemical and biological hazards in the performances of their duties.

We understand that training students in hazards, defensive actions, and to OSHA and NFPA standards can help minimize and eliminate exposures.

Our mission is to train all levels of fire fighters in their own departments and customize the training to jurisdictional hazards. Our programs are developed and taught by highly trained fire fighters who bring valuable experience to the classroom.

Confined Space Operations* / 24 hours

The Confined Space Operations course is a three-day, participant-centered, instructor-led training program. This program is intended to provide participants with basic information for confined space responses plus hands-on practice using their department’s rescue equipment. Topics include confined space regulations and standards, PPE, monitoring and detection devices, ventilation techniques and retrieval systems.

During this course, participants learn how pre-incident planning can help responders prepare for confined space rescue incidents and how to conduct a pre-plan. Case histories are included to illustrate hazards and hazard control; hands-on demonstrations are included to help teach specific rescue skills using ventilation equipment, rescue equipment, as well as isolation and decontamination techniques.

Download course description here.

Course Goal

The course goal is to educate emergency responders about strategies to safeguard health and safety when their work involves entering confined spaces for rescue operations in accordance with:

  • OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146, Permit-Required Confined Spaces
  • National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) 1670: Standard on Operations and Training for Technical Search and Rescue Incidents, Chapter 7: Confined Space Search and Rescue
  • NFPA® 1006: Standard for Technical Rescuer Professional Qualification, Chapter 7: Confined Space Rescue

Course Objectives

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to perform the following at confined space rescue incidents:

  • Discuss confined space regulations
  • Perform pre-incident planning as well as discuss the importance of pre-incident planning
  • Monitor hazardous atmospheres
  • Discuss the health and safety issues related to the hazards of confined spaces (e.g., toxic, flammable, asphyxiating atmospheres)
  • Use ventilation devices, rescue equipment and personal protective equipment
  • Perform procedures for basic rescue, communication and decontamination in a confined space rescue
  • Use basic retrieval systems including ropes, rescue systems and lowering systems
  • Using SCBA’s perform a rescue of a victim under NFPA 1006 standard for Operations

Prerequisites

The Confined Space Operations web-based training course (Confined Space Introduction) is designed as a prerequisite for the Confined Space Operations instructor-led course.  This introductory course covers the regulations that govern confined spaces and permit-required confined spaces. It will cover the definition of confined spaces and the inherent hazards, in addition, it will cover in detail Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations Part 1910.146 – Permit-Required Confined Spaces.

To attend the Confined Space Operations instructor-led course you must successfully complete this course with at least a 70% on the post-test.

Performance Measures

Participants must demonstrate mastery of the course objectives by completing the post-test, hands-on skills practice, and one or more simulated practical exercises. The post-test includes 50 multiple choice items.

Certification

Once a participant completes the course, including the performance (skills) evaluation, and scores above 70% on the written exam, they will receive an IAFF certificate with a Pro Board® seal.  The IAFF will then submit the participant’s name to the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board® registry) for certification at the Confined Space Awareness and Operations levels. Pro Board® certification holds:

  • Recognition for demonstrating proficiency
  • A permanent record of the accomplishment
  • Transferability/portability of qualifications, as reciprocity means Pro Board® certification will be recognized by fire departments nationwide.

Confined Space Rescue* / 40 hours

The Confined Space Rescue course is a five-day, participant-centered, instructor-led training program. This program is intended to provide participants with basic information for confined space responses plus hands-on practice using their department’s rescue equipment. Topics include confined space regulations and standards, PPE, monitoring and detection devices, ventilation techniques and retrieval systems.

During this course, participants learn:

  • How pre-incident planning can help responders prepare for confined space rescue incidents
  • How to conduct a pre-plan.
  • Case histories are included to illustrate hazards and hazard control
  • Hands-on demonstrations are included to help teach specific rescue skills using ventilation equipment, rescue equipment, as well as isolation and decontamination techniques.

Download course description here.

Course Goal

The course goal is to educate emergency responders about strategies to safeguard health and safety when their work involves entering confined spaces for rescue operations in accordance with:

  • OSHA 29 CFR 1910.146, Permit-Required Confined Spaces
  • National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) 1670: Standard on Operations and Training for Technical Search and Rescue Incidents, Chapter 7: Confined Space Search and Rescue
  • NFPA® 1006: Standard for Technical Rescuer Professional Qualification, Chapter 7: Confined Space Rescue

Course Objectives

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to perform the following at confined space rescue incidents:

  • Discuss confined space regulations
  • Perform pre-incident planning as well as discuss the importance of pre-incident planning
  • Monitor hazardous atmospheres
  • Discuss the health and safety issues related to the hazards of confined spaces (e.g., toxic, flammable, asphyxiating atmospheres)
  • Use ventilation devices, rescue equipment and personal protective equipment
  • Perform advanced procedures for rescue, communication and decontamination in a confined space rescue
  • Use SAR’s to perform an advanced rescue of a victim under the NFPA 1006 standard for Rescue Technician
  • Participants will participate in advanced rescue scenarios at actual confined spaces using the skills learned in the class

Prerequisites

The Confined Space Rescue web-based training course (Confined Space Introduction) is designed as a prerequisite for the Confined Space Rescue instructor-led course. This introductory course covers the regulations that govern confined spaces and permit-required confined spaces. It will cover the definition of confined spaces and the inherent hazards, in addition, it will cover in detail Title 29 Code of Federal Regulations Part 1910.146 – Permit-Required Confined Spaces.

To attend the Confined Space Rescue instructor-led course, you must successfully complete this course with at least a 70% on the post-test.

Performance Measures

Participants must demonstrate mastery of the course objectives by completing the post-test, hands-on skills practice, and one or more simulated practical exercises. The post-test includes 50 multiple choice items.

Certification

Once a participant completes the course, including the performance (skills) evaluation, and scores above 70% on the written exam, they will receive an IAFF certificate with a Pro Board® seal.  The IAFF will then submit the participant’s name to the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board registry) for certification at the Confined Space Technician level. Pro Board® certification holds:

  • Recognition for demonstrating proficiency
  • A permanent record of the accomplishment
  • Transferability/portability of qualifications, as reciprocity means Pro Board® certification will be recognized by fire departments nationwide.

Emergency Response to Hazardous Materials / 16 hours

The Emergency Response to Hazardous Materials (ER2HM) course was created to teach the community how to plan for and respond to hazmat incidents, in addition to training the members of the community how to assist during recovery. It was designed around the whole community approach. This approach integrates all members as vital partners in response to natural and man-made disasters. This training is appropriate for the following:

  • Fire fighters
  • Emergency medical technicians
  • Law enforcement
  • Specialized emergency response teams (e.g., hazardous materials, search and rescue)
  • Emergency managers
  • Community leaders
  • Organizations serving persons with disabilities
  • Faith-based organizations
  • Skilled support personnel (e.g., public works, private industry and hospitals)

ER2HM combines three to four hours of web-based training (prerequisite) and a two-day, participant-centered, instructor-led mobile training program. It is compliant with the hazardous materials and weapons of mass destruction response requirements of the National Incident Management System (NIMS), Occupational Safety and Health (OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120), National Fire Protection Association (NFPA® Standards 1072 and 473), and Executive Order 13650.

The relevance of this course is to develop emergency response and recovery plans using all of the community that would be impacted by an incident. Members of the community that are trained for ER2HM can assist in helping with planning, aiding in response, and recovery after an incident. Curriculum includes emergency response, EMS, evacuation, preparing shelters, and providing food and water to those in need, among other considerations that need to be evacuated before an incident occurs.

Download course description here.

Certification

Once a participant completes the course and scores above 70% on the written exam, they will receive an IAFF certificate with a Pro Board® seal. The IAFF will then submit the participant’s name to the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board® registry) for certification at the Awareness level. Pro Board® certification holds:

  • Recognition for demonstrating proficiency
  • A permanent record of the accomplishment
  • Transferability/portability of qualifications, as reciprocity means Pro Board® certification will be recognized by fire departments nationwide.

Emergency Response to Liquefied Natural Gas / 8 Hours

Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is a hazardous material that poses three major risks to fire fighters and other emergency responders – it is a flammable gas that has been liquefied cryogenically; and it disperses rapidly. This course focuses on the hazards, characteristics, and risks of LNG. The training will teach students how to safely respond to LNG fires and spills through classroom and hands-on activities. This course will satisfy annual HazMat refresher training.

Course Goals

In this training, students will learn to take a risk-based approach when responding to incidents involving LNG, and other hazardous materials, in transportation and at fixed facilities. The students will observe the behavior of LNG when it is released from its container and attacked with water and dry chemicals; discuss hazard and risk assessment, proper selection of PPE, and basic control techniques; and work through case studies and scenario-based exercises. This program was designed by fire fighters, for fire fighters who have previously been trained to the hazmat operations level in accordance with OSHA regulations. Participants should already be trained to work in a defensive posture to confine hazardous materials and mission-specific tasks such as use of PPE, product control, and decontamination. The program has been designed to serve as an 8-hour, OSHA-compliant refresher program.

The course goal is to ensure a safe, competent response using the facts, science, and circumstances to analyze the problem, plan the response, implement the plan, and evaluate the progress. The agenda includes an introduction to LNG and its hazards, pre-planning and analyzing incidents, responding to LNG incidents, case studies and scenario exercises.

Introduction

  • What do you know and what do you want to or need to learn?
  • What is LNG and why learn about it?

LNG Hazards

  • What makes LNG a hazardous?
  • How might LNG and containers behave in an emergency?

Preplan & Analyze Incidents

  • Where is LNG present?
  • What kind of incidents might occur?

Respond to LNG Incidents

  • What can you do to respond to LNG emergencies?
  • How can you protect yourself and others during LNG emergencies?

Case Studies & Scenarios

  • What can learn from LNG or similar incidents?
  • What would do if you had to respond to an LNG incident?

Audience

Emergency Response to Liquefied Natural Gas was developed for those fire, rescue, emergency medical service (EMS) personnel and other personnel who may respond to incidents involving liquefied natural gas.

Download course description here.

Emergency Response to Terrorism: Operations / 8 hours

The Emergency Response to Terrorism: Operations (ERT: Ops) is a one-day (8-hour) participant-centered instructor-led training program. This course focuses on emergency response to incidents involving Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs) using the IAFF’s risk-based response process: Analyze, Plan, Implement and Evaluate (APIE). Participants are provided in-depth information related to chemical, biological, radiological/nuclear, and explosive/incendiary weapons, signs/symptoms, types of harm, and protective actions including the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Using video and resources such as the Emergency Response Guidebook, NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards, and safety data sheets (SDSs), participants apply the APIE process to realistic situations involving possible WMDs. Each video begins with a dispatch and responders’ initial size-up. Participants must determine the appropriate response objectives, action options, personal protective equipment (PPE), and response personnel and equipment to mitigate the incident. After analyzing the incident and planning a response, participants report their plan and receive feedback from instructors. A follow-up video is used to illustrate implementation — this video allows participants to evaluate the progress.

Download course description here.

Course Goal

The overall goal of the program is to train first responders at the operations level (e.g., fire fighters, emergency medical personnel, law enforcement) to ensure a safe, competent response to incidents involving WMDs, and reduce responder exposure, injury and death.

Course Objectives

Given scenarios of WMD emergencies, participants use APIE: A Risk-Based Response Process, which requires consideration of the facts, science and circumstances and to:

  • Analyze the problem
    • Identify the problem and behavior of HazMats/WMDs
  • Plan the response
    • Develop and communicate an incident action plan
  • Implement the plan
    • Observe operations and outcomes
  • Evaluate the progress
    • Assess response effectiveness

Competency levels are based on line items from NFPA® 470 Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD) Standard for Responders.

Performance Measures

Participants demonstrate mastery of the course objectives by completing the post-test and scenario report-backs. The post-test includes 25 multiple choice items with items requiring the use of hazardous materials references — ERG, NIOSH Pocket Guide, safety data sheets, other locally used references. Scenarios are presented using video. Participants work in teams (or crews) to analyze the problem, plan the response, identify considerations for implementation and evaluate the progress of responders in the video. During report-backs, teams must identify the type of WMD used in the video as well as response objectives, action options and appropriate PPE.

Frontline Safety / 8 Hours

The Frontline Safety course is a one-day, participant-centered, instructor-led training. The activities are designed by fire fighters, for fire fighters to address key issues related to fire fighter health and safety. Fire fighters, frontline supervisors and safety officers are encouraged to attend.

This course includes a personal safety survey, a discussion of the truths and myths associated with fire fighter safety, injuries and fatalities and practice identifying safe and unsafe acts. The course incorporates the NIOSH Fire Fighter Fatality Project, and includes discussions of some of the causes of fire fighter injuries and fatalities such as normalization of deviance, avoiding the passenger mode, courageous self-leadership and situational awareness.

During the course, participants work through a variety of small-group activities, discuss the Frontline Safety model of contributing factors to fire fighter near misses and injuries and fatalities. This course also gives emergency responders the opportunity to learn new strategies they can use to help decrease injury and death in their organizations. A special cadre of IAFF Master Instructors has been trained to deliver the course.

Download course description here.

Course Goal

The overall goal of the Frontline Safety program is to better balance the safety and lives of fire fighters with the overall mission mitigating incidents. The purpose of the course is to help decrease the number of injuries and deaths by helping fire fighters become safety leaders and advocates for safer behavior.

Course Objectives

The goal of this course is to demonstrate fire fighters can act with safety as the primary value, which may in time reduce the number of fire fighter injuries and fatalities that occur each year.

To meet this goal, the IAFF gives participants an opportunity to:

  • Discuss the factors that contribute to fire fighter health and safety.
  • Identify programs which provide information about the causes of fire fighter injuries and fatalities:
    • National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health’s Fire Fighter Fatality Investigation and Prevention Program
  • Examine your values as an individual, the shared values of your crew/company and the shared values within your organization that affect safety.
  • Apply strategies for advancing fire fighter health and safety.

Performance Measures

As this program is values (or attitude) based, it does not include formal performance measures. Alternatively, action planning has been incorporated to improve the likelihood that participants will use what they have learned.

HazMat Operations* / 24 Hours

The HazMat Operations course is a three-day, participant-centered, instructor-led training program. HazMat Operations was developed for those fire, rescue, emergency medical service (EMS) personnel and other personnel who may respond to incidents involving hazardous materials (HazMats) and/or weapons of mass destruction (WMDs).

Download course description here (ENG).
Download course description here(FR).

Course Goal

Through this course, the IAFF is working to ensure that all emergency responders have the knowledge and skills to safely stabilize and/or mitigate incidents involving HazMats and WMDs in accordance with:

  • OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response
  • NFPA® 1072: Standard on Competence of Responders to Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Incidents
    • Chapter 4: Competencies for Awareness Level Personnel
    • Chapter 5: Core Competencies for Operations Level Responders
    • Chapter 6: Competencies for Operations Level Responders Assigned to Mission-Specific Responsibilities
      • Section 6.2: Personal Protective Equipment
      • Section 6.6: Product Control
  • NFPA® 1072: Standard for Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Emergency Response Personnel, Professional Qualifications
  • NFPA® 1971: Standard on Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting
  • NFPA® 1851: Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting
  • NFPA® 1994: Standard on Protective Ensembles for First Responders to Hazardous Materials and CBRN Terrorism Incidents

Course Objectives

After completing this course, participants will be able to perform the duties of awareness and operations level personnel when responding to HazMat/WMD incidents:

  • Analyze the incident to identify the problem and the behavior of HazMat/WMDs and containers present.
  • Plan an initial response, develop an incident action plan and communicate that plan in accordance with standard operating procedures/guidelines (SOPs/SOGs) and available equipment and personnel.
  • Implement the planned response while observing operations and outcomes.
    • Use PPE at HazMat/WMD incidents.
    • Defensively, control products at HazMat/WMD incidents.
  • Evaluate the progress to assess the effectiveness of the actions taken to stabilize the incident, and protect people, property and the environment.

Performance Measures

Participants must demonstrate mastery of the course objectives by completing the post-test, and hands-on skills practice and performance evaluations. The post-test includes 50 multiple choice items with items requiring the use of hazardous materials references — ERG, NIOSH Pocket Guide, safety data sheets, other locally used references. Performance evaluation includes mandatory completion of PPE and emergency decontamination evolutions plus three randomly selected product control evolutions.

Certification

Once a participant completes the course, including the performance (skills) evaluation, and scores above 70% on the written exam, they will receive an IAFF certificate with a Pro Board® seal.  The IAFF will then submit the participant’s name to the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board® registry) for certification at the Awareness, Core Operations, and Mission-Specific PPE and Product Control levels. Pro Board® certification holds:

  • Recognition for demonstrating proficiency
  • A permanent record of the accomplishment
  • Transferability/portability of qualifications, as reciprocity means Pro Board certification will be recognized by fire departments nationwide.

HazMat Technician* / 80 Hours

The HazMat Technician course is designed specifically for fire and rescue personnel who may respond to incidents involving hazardous materials (hazmats) and/or weapons of mass destruction (WMDs).

This Pro Board® accredited course is a 10-day (80 hour), participant-centered, instructor-led training program for first responders.

Upon completion of the course, participants will be able to perform the following at hazardous materials/WMD incidents using the IAFF’s risk-based response process – APIE:

  • Analyze the incident to determine the complexity of the problem and potential outcomes.
  • Plan a response including developing response objectives, identifying potential response options, selecting the personal protective equipment (PPE) required and a technical decontamination process, and developing an IAP.
  • Implement the planned response consistent with local emergency response plans and/or standard operating procedures by performing the duties of the hazmat branch; donning, doffing, and working in PPE; and performing control functions and decontamination.
  • Evaluate the progress to determine the effectiveness of control and decontamination functions identified in the IAP.

Download course description here.

Prerequisites

This training course is designed for students who have already completed Operations level HazMat response training.

Codes and Regulations Met

The course goal is to educate emergency responders about strategies to safeguard health and safety when their work involves offensive operations at hazardous materials/weapons of mass destruction (WMDs) in accordance with:

  • OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response
  • NFPA® 1072: Standard for Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Emergency Response Personnel, Professional Qualifications, Chapter 7
  • NFPA® 1991: Standard on Vapor-Protective Ensembles for Hazardous Materials Emergencies
  • NFPA® 1992: Standard on Liquid Splash-Protective Ensembles and Clothing for Hazardous Materials Emergencies
  • NFPA® 1994: Standard on Protective Ensembles for First Responders to Hazardous Materials and CBRN Terrorism Incidents

Performance Measures

Participants must demonstrate mastery of the course objectives by completing the certification (post) test, and a randomly selected scenario-based practical exercise. The certification test includes 100 knowledge-based items. Evaluation scenarios have been developed to ensure participants are evaluated in a high-fidelity, simulated environment.

Scenarios require participants to apply the APIE and includes mandatory completion of analysis, detection and monitoring, response planning, PPE and decontamination selection and use, and product control. Participants, who pass both the written (70%) and skills evaluations, are certified through the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (the Pro Board®) at the HazMat Technician level.

Certification

Once a participant completes the course, including the performance (skills) evaluation, and scores above 70%, they will receive an IAFF certificate with a Pro Board® seal. The IAFF will then submit the participant’s name to the National Board on Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board® registry). Pro Board® certification holds:

  • Recognition for demonstrating proficiency
  • A permanent record of the accomplishment
  • Transferability/portability of qualifications, as reciprocity means Pro Board® certification will be recognized by fire departments nationwide.

Additional Accreditation

Fire fighters and personnel who have successfully obtained Pro Board® certification may be eligible to transfer in college credits toward the following Kaplan University degree programs: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Fire Science, Bachelor of Science (BS) in Fire Science, Bachelor of Science in Fire and Emergency Management. Completing the HazMat Technician program allows participants a total of five credits of a fire science elective at Kaplan University.

Recommended

OSHA physical examination in accordance with 29 CFR §1910.120 and 29 CFR §1910.134.

High-Consequence Incidents / 8 Hours

The High-Consequence Incidents: Planning, Response and Recovery (HiC) training program has been developed with the whole community in mind. Emergency responders, emergency managers, facility and rail personnel, as well as community members will be provided with information on the hazards associated with the transport of crude oil by rail and the storage and use of fertilizer grade ammonium nitrate (FGAN) and technical grade ammonium nitrate (TGAN).

Response to hazardous materials incidents requires a systematic process. During this program, participants will learn to use Analyze, Plan, Implement and Evaluate (APIE): A Risk-Based Response Process. This systematic process combines the use of the facts, science and circumstances to safely and effectively respond to incidents while reducing the possibility of exposure (illness), injury and fatalities.

The program will use a blended approach – self-paced online learning combined with instructor-led instruction. Prerequisite online learning will provide in-depth knowledge related to the hazards of crude oil and FGAN/TGAN. After completing the online training, participants are asked to identify locations in their community where the hazards associated with crude-by-rail and FGAN/TGAN may be present.

Download course description here.

Course Objectives

The overall goal of the program is to train traditional emergency responders (law enforcement, career and volunteer fire fighters), as well as local and state planners, members of state and local emergency planning commissions, and other representatives of the whole community to:

  • Analyze the types of hazardous materials incidents for which their community is at risk.
    • Identify the hazardous materials within their community along transportation routes and at fixed facilities.
    • Identify community events where the threat of hostile incidents exists.
    • Identify the types of harm a release, either accidental or criminal, of those materials might cause.
  • Pre-plan response for the types of incidents and harm identified as “possible” within their community.
    • Identify community organizations and response agencies that are available to assist in the mitigation.
    • Identify the local, state and federal procedures will need to be performed during an incident (e.g., establishing a unified command).
  • Implement the planned response.
    • Use APIE: A Risk-Based Response Process to ensure a safe, competent response to incidents involving hazardous materials and reduce exposure, injury and death.
  • Evaluate the progress.

Target Audience

The target audience to be trained through this course include traditional emergency responders (law enforcement, career and volunteer fire fighters), as well as local and state planners, members of state and local emergency planning commissions, and other representatives of the whole community. Community partners include, but are not limited to, individuals, families, private and nonprofit sectors, faith-based organizations and all levels of government.

Prerequisites

Participants will need to complete the Hazards and High-Consequence Incidents online learning module located at http://lms.iaff.org. Both IAFF and non-IAFF member participants will be able to access the online learning module on the IAFF’s Learning Management System.

Codes and Regulations Met

Participants who are emergency responders – fire fighters, emergency medical technicians, law enforcement – will have the training required to operate in a defensive manner at hazardous materials incidents as defined in OSHA 1910.120 Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response (HAZWOPER) in accordance with local standard operating procedures/guidelines.

Attending this training also satisfies most of the annual hazardous materials refresher requirements for operations level responders as stated in the HAZWOPER regulation. However, 1910.120 requires that the employer certify that an individual has met all of the requirements and competencies identified. It is the responsibility of the employer/department to ensure that all competencies are met. Examples of additional information that needs to be covered include: how to perform basic control, containment and confinement, as well as ensuring the employee has an understanding of the relevant standard operating procedures/guidelines (SOPs/SOGs).

Certification

Students who successfully complete the course with a 70% or better will receive an IAFF Completion certificate.

Responding to Drug-Related Incidents / 8 Hours

This course focuses on the dangers that first responders face when responding to drug-related incidents. Customizable to the jurisdiction, the training teaches participants how to identify specific drug labs, recognize the hazards and respond to the incident. The course will review new tactics and guidelines for drug-related response in addition to safety procedures, detection devices and disposal of substances – among other topics – to ensure a safer response to illicit drug lab incidents. Supplementary information, fact sheets and resources are available to participants on the IAFF’s Online Learning Center. This course will satisfy annual HAZWOPER refresher requirements.

Download course description here.

Course Goal

Through this course, the IAFF is working to ensure that emergency responders, specifically operations level responders, have the knowledge and skills to support operations at incidents involving illicit drugs and illicit drug manufacturing in accordance with:

  • OSHA 29 CFR 1910.120, Hazardous Waste Operations and Emergency Response
  • NFPA® 1072: Standard on Competence of Responders to Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Incidents
    • Chapter 4: Competencies for Awareness Level Personnel
    • Chapter 5: Core Competencies for Operations Level Responders
    • Chapter 6: Competencies for Operations Level Responders Assigned to Mission-Specific Responsibilities, Section 6.9: Response to Illicit Laboratory Incidents
  • NFPA® 1971: Standard on Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting
  • NFPA® 1851: Standard on Selection, Care, and Maintenance of Protective Ensembles for Structural Fire Fighting and Proximity Fire Fighting

Course Objectives

After completing this course, participants will be able to:

  • Define terms: illicit drug labs and illicit weapons of mass destruction (WMD) labs.
  • Describe two types and three general categories of illicit drug labs.
  • Identify drugs produced in illicit drug labs and the three processes used in the manufacture of illicit drug labs.
  • List at least four common locations for illicit drug labs.
  • Identify and describe the four stages of APIE: A Risk-Based Response Process.
  • List at least five clues for identifying illicit drug labs.
  • Identify chemical hazards when responding to a reported illicit drug lab.
  • Describe operational hazards, considerations and products involved in the illicit drug manufacturing process.
  • Describe safe procedures and tactical guidelines.
  • Identify appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and chemical protective clothing (CPC) for fire fighters and HazMat technicians responding to an illicit drug lab.
  • Discuss the limitations of structural firefighting protective clothing (SFPC) in preventing chemical exposures.
  • Describe decontamination procedures for responders and civilians encountered at an illicit drug lab.
  • Describe hazards that need to be monitored and identify appropriate detection devices to use when performing mission-specific operations.
  • Describe the fire department’s support role in an illicit drug lab incident and the roles of the personnel typically at the scene of illicit drug lab incidents.
  • Identify steps of the deactivation phase.
  • Apply risk-based response to a given illicit drug lab incident scenario.

Performance Measures

Participants must demonstrate mastery of the course objectives by completing the post-test. The post-test includes 24 multiple choice and/or matching items. Additionally, participants work in small groups to simulate their response to illicit drug lab scenarios during Module 5 – Putting It All Together.

*Pro Board® Accredited

Some HazMat courses require participants to complete online training prior to classroom learning. Participants are notified by email if they are required to complete the online training after they have registered for the course. The online training is self-paced and must be completed prior to arriving to the classroom training.

Online learning courses are available to anyone, regardless of IAFF membership or participation in HazMat training. To register for the online learning courses, visit the IAFF Online Learning Center Course Catalog. Important: If you are participating in HazMat classroom training, you must first register for that course before completing the online prerequisite.

The IAFF’s Hazardous Materials Training programs offer high-level training to first responders by focusing on common sense strategies to recognize hazardous materials, prevent or minimize exposure and defensively control the incident.

These strategies can help lower incidents of injuries and fatalities. At each training event, the IAFF provides a team of professional instructors who are active fire fighters/EMS personnel/HazMat team members. The program materials are created by a team of curricula designers and professional fire fighters who continue to update them to meet or exceed current standards.

To request HazMat training, IAFF affiliates must provide a request letter signed by an IAFF local president and the fire chief. The number of students cannot exceed 25 per class. If the class size exceeds 25 students, the requestor must request two classes.

The letter should contain:

  • A general timeline for delivery
  • A brief explanation of the need for training in your area
  • The number of students
  • A contact person for course logistics, such as a training officer

Click here for a sample training request letter.

Request U.S. Grant-Funded HazMat Training

Email request to: [email protected]

Please use letterhead and address the letter to:
Edward A. Kelly, General President
International Association of Fire Fighters
1750 New York Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20006

Request Canadian Grant-Funded HazMat Training

Email request to: [email protected]

Please use letterhead and address the letter to:
Sean McManus, Assistant to the General President
International Association of Fire Fighters
350 Sparks Street
Ottawa, ON K1R 7S8

Are you a licensed training site conducting your own HazMat training?

Click the link above to register your instructors, receive your registration link and schedule certification testing.

Are you conducting your own training for a non-licensed HazMat course?

Click the link above to register your instructors and receive your registration link and materials for non-Pro Board indirect training.

The programs and services provided by the IAFF HazMat Training Department are intended to promote safety and wellness for first responders that may respond to emergencies that involve hazardous materials. Its training programs are created and maintained by a team of curricula developers, first responder subject-matter experts and professionals that serve on standards and accreditation committees who collaborate to develop cutting-edge HazMat training programs. IAFF HazMat training programs meet or exceed industry standards and are updated frequently, driving a strong demand from outside agencies to use the IAFF’s training programs.

To ensure that the IAFF HazMat training programs are being delivered properly and only as intended, a formal licensing policy has been implemented that specifies the way in which IAFF HazMat training programs can legally be used. This procedure was instituted by the IAFF to protect the integrity of the IAFF, its programs and the interests of the members of the IAFF.

Under the current policy, authorization to use the IAFF HazMat training programs under a license will only be granted to fire departments and training sites that train first responders. Limiting the granting of licenses to only those entities that actually administer these programs will enable the IAFF to ensure that they are only being delivered in strict compliance with the licensing agreement. In addition, a fire department that uses another fire department’s resources and facilities to train fire fighters must apply for a license of their own. Any use of the IAFF HazMat training programs without a license or any misuse of the HazMat training programs is a violation of the IAFF copyright.

Eligibility

The IAFF HazMat Training Department takes its mission seriously: to provide training to all responders whose duty potentially includes HazMat response. We believe strongly that our program is the best training for HazMat response, but in light of diminishing funding from granting agencies, we cannot reach all areas that need high-quality training for frontline fire fighters.

To ensure that training is available to all first responders who need it, the IAFF has allowed its program to be used by agencies who agree to abide by its licensing standards, enhancing its reach throughout the U.S. and Canada, including:

  • Training academies: state, regional or local.
  • Community colleges and universities.
  • Fire departments with smaller numbers who cannot fill the government mandated class minimum of 20 students for IAFF training.
  • Larger departments with high-volume needs.

The IAFF’s Health and Safety Department’s Fire Ground Survival and CPAT programs are already operating under licensing. The HazMat licensing program is modeled after these programs.

Requirements

A fire department/training site must first apply for an IAFF license, and once approved, must pay an annual licensing fee. Licensing fees are waived for IAFF affiliates, including locals and state/provincial associations. The training site must also be able to host a Train-the-Trainer class to certify its instructors to the Certified Instructor level. The IAFF will conduct a Train-the-Trainer of 10-20 local instructors that meet the minimum criteria:

  • Be a fire fighter, or employed by a fire department or fire training site and involved in a fire service training program
  • Have at least one year of teaching experience
  • Have certification to the NFPA® Instructor I level or equivalent

Fire departments/training sites can make arrangements with area training agencies to coordinate training for a regional Train-the-Trainer. A single training site is expected to have a minimum of three IAFF HazMat Certified Instructors, but only two IAFF Certified Instructors are required to co-teach an IAFF Hazmat class. In addition, a training site that uses another site’s resources and facilities to train fire fighters must apply for a license of their own.

The IAFF HazMat Training Department will issue licenses to sites that apply and fit the following criteria to conduct classes at their training site:

  • Agree to have a minimum of three IAFF Certified Instructors on staff at all times (Certified Instructors have passed the IAFF Train-the-Trainer program).
  • Must have an adequate outdoor space (minimum of 120’X120’) and all equipment required for hands-on training. Equipment list under separate copy.
  • Agree to have all students fit-tested for SCBA and have SFPC prior to class (if not, participants cannot partake in hands-on training exercises to get ProBoard® certification).
  • Must have adequate classroom space, tables and chairs for 25 students.
  • Must have adequate AV capability to project digital presentations, digital slides and embedded videos during class.
  • Must agree to train no more than 25 students per class per two instructors.
  • Agree to conduct classes at the standards of 24 hours for HazMat Operations training and 80 for Technician (no fewer).
  • Agree that each training event will be conducted with at least two IAFF Certified Instructors co-teaching daily.
  • Agree that when a site duplicates IAFF student manuals, that they will be copied in color for placard identification.
  • Agree to have students register on IAFF registration site at least one month in advance.
  • Agree to notify IAFF HazMat Department of class cancellation at least one month in advance.
  • Agree to be audited by the IAFF at any time.
  • Agree to licensing and proctor fees.
  • Agree to IAFF testing regulations as part of the Pro Board® accreditation.

Training Certification

Participants that attend and pass an IAFF Train the Trainer for any licensed training site will be an IAFF Certified Instructor and will be allowed to facilitate the course for which they took the training. Certified Instructors can only instruct at the site in which they are licensed. Any students trained by an IAFF Certified Instructor will be eligible to receive Pro Board® certificates.

Participants who attend and pass the IAFF HazMat Operations course taught by an IAFF Certified Instructor will be certified at the Pro Board® for Core HazMat Operations and Mission-specific PPE and Product Control levels, as prescribed by the NFPA® 1072 Standard for Competence of Responder to HazMat/WMD 2017 Edition, Chapters 5, 6.2. and 6.6.

Participants who attend and pass the IAFF HazMat Technician course will be certified by the IAFF and the Pro Board® for NFPA 470 Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Standard for Responders, 2022 Edition, Chapter 11.

  • NFPA® 470: Standard on Competence of Responders to Hazardous Materials/Weapons of Mass Destruction Incidents, Chapter 11: Competencies for Hazardous Materials Technicians
  • NFPA® 1991: Standard on Vapor-Protective Ensembles for Hazardous Materials Emergencies
  • NFPA® 1992: Standard on Liquid Splash-Protective Ensembles and Clothing for Hazardous Materials Emergencies
  • NFPA® 1994: Standard on Protective Ensembles for First Responders to CBRN Terrorism Incidents

Indirect Training Costs

To ensure that the IAFF has adequate resources to conduct onsite reviews and audits, license holders will be charged an annual licensing fee of $5,000. IAFF affiliates are exempt from the annual fee for licensing, this includes IAFF locals and state/provincial associations.

Licenses can be renewed by the fire department/fire training site every 12 months upon resubmission of updated information on its certified instructors and a list of training equipment. All license reapplications are subject to review by the IAFF HazMat Training Department, which may involve an onsite audit for quality assurance. As part of the annual fee, the IAFF Certified Instructor will receive updates to instructor training materials and continued information regarding IAFF HazMat training programs. Licenses will be non-transferable, non-exclusive and revocable at will for any reason.

A licensed fire department/fire training site may host training for up to 25 candidates per class for a fee of up to $2,500 (U.S.). As part of this fee, the IAFF will provide a Pro Board®-qualified proctor to administer the post-test on the final day. This fee also covers the student submission fee for the Pro Board® registry. A training site may opt to use an IAFF-contracted testing center in lieu of an IAFF proctor. Any associated testing fees will be made payable directly to the IAFF.

All payment must be received 90 days prior to the start of a HazMat training class. If payment is not received prior to the start of the workshop, candidates will not be authorized to attend and will not be certified. Conducting classes without the intent to certify students is a violation of the IAFF license. If a license is revoked, a site is unauthorized to use IAFF intellectual materials and is therefore in violation of copyright law.

The Pro Board® requires that an IAFF Master Instructor or an approved testing center act as proctor for its certified courses and, therefore, will not allow delegation of test proctoring to any training site personnel.

Terms and Conditions

To ensure that the IAFF HazMat Training Programs are being delivered properly and only as intended, a formal licensing policy has been implemented that specifies the way in which this IAFF HazMat Training Programs can legally be used. This procedure was instituted by the IAFF to protect the integrity of its HazMat Training Programs and the interests of the members of the IAFF by ensuring that these programs are implemented properly and as intended.

Under the current policy, authorization to use the IAFF HazMat Training Programs under a Full License will only be granted to fire departments or training sites to train students within their jurisdiction. Limiting the granting of licenses to only those entities that actually administer the IAFF HazMat Training Programs will enable the IAFF to ensure that they are only being delivered in strict compliance with the licensing agreement.

Third party training organizations (limited to federal, state or provincial agencies; state/provincial fire academies; and colleges/universities that conduct fire fighter training) may apply for a license.  Such licenses allow third party training organizations or regional consortiums to use and teach the IAFF HazMat Training Programs for purposes of training fire fighters or public safety personnel when the training is not provided or available from their fire department. However, this license is granted only upon the express conditions that the licensee may only deliver the IAFF HazMat Training Programs for a fire department/training site that meet all requirements. Licensees shall not use the IAFF HazMat Training Programs to train any person without first obtaining a written agreement with the fire department/training site to which the person is employed.

In addition, a fire department/training site that uses another site’s resources and facilities to train fire fighters must apply for a license of their own.

The licensing policy ensures that the IAFF HazMat Training Programs used by licensee fully covers every aspect of the IAFF HazMat Training Programs, including all required safety measures.  Any use of the IAFF HazMat Training Programs without a license or any misuse of the programs is a violation of the IAFF copyright on the IAFF HazMat Training Programs.

To learn more about the IAFF HazMat Training programs and its licensing, email [email protected] or call (202) 824-9311. To learn how to apply for federal funding that can pay for training, backfill, apparatus or staffing, click here or send an email to [email protected] or call (202) 824-1562.


Terms and Conditions

The IAFF HazMat Training Programs License is granted only upon the express condition that the licensee use the IAFF HazMat Training Programs in whole and only for the purpose of training first responders to identify and respond to incidents involving hazardous materials. This training includes, but is not necessarily limited to the following skills: analyze the incident to identify the problem and the behavior of HazMat/WMDs and containers present; plan an initial response, develop an incident action plan and communicate that plan in accordance with standard operating procedures/guidelines (SOPs/SOGs) and available equipment and personnel; implement the planned response while observing operations and outcomes; use PPE at HazMat/WMD incidents; perform defensive product control at HazMat/WMD incidents; and evaluate the progress to assess the effectiveness of the actions taken to stabilize the incident, and protect people, property, and the environment, including the use of specified equipment, props, safety measures and IAFF-Certified Instructors.

Any attempt by the licensee to use only a portion of the IAFF HazMat Training Programs or to use the IAFF HazMat Training Programs without the proper safety measures and/or without IAFF-Certified Instructors is inconsistent with the scope of this license, and is therefore prohibited. The licensee is only authorized to make use of the IAFF HazMat Training Programs in accordance with the terms and conditions of the Program Manual. The Program Manual is hereby incorporated into this licensing agreement.

As a condition of receiving an IAFF HazMat Training Programs License, the licensee must agree that it will conduct the IAFF HazMat Training Programs in accordance with the IAFF’s licensing requirements. The full licensee shall meet the following licensing requirements:

  • Utilize only IAFF-Certified Instructors;
  • Have at least three IAFF-Certified Instructors on staff;
  • Have a minimum of two IAFF-Certified Instructors co-teach each course;
  • Train no more than 25 students per class per two instructors;
  • Acquire/purchase the required equipment/props and verify that such equipment/props conform to all specifications in the Program Manual;
  • Provide facilities and equipment for the final written and practical exam;
  • Ensure that it has the ability to administer the Program in conformity with the specifications set forth in the agreement;
  • Have students register on the IAFF registration site at least one month in advance to receive certification;
  • Notify the IAFF HazMat Department of class cancellation at least one month in advance; and
  • Adhere to IAFF testing regulations as part of its Pro Board® accreditation.

The IAFF will provide custom certificates for students that register, successfully complete the course and complete the post-course evaluation survey.

Licenses shall only be issued to fire departments, third-party training organizations or regional consortiums that are:

  • Federal, state or provincial governments or agencies;
  • State or provincial fire academies;
  • Colleges/universities that conduct fire fighter training courses; or
  • Regional consortiums of fire departments within a state or province.

To ensure compliance with this policy, the IAFF will conduct periodic onsite reviews and audits of the facilities holding a license, and the licensee must agree to fully cooperate with such efforts.  The onsite review and audit will include, but are not necessarily limited to, the following:

  • Verification of training procedures and use of IAFF HazMat Training Program materials;
  • Verification of IAFF-Certified Instructors;
  • Equipment inspection to ensure all equipment and props meet specifications; and
  • Attendance verification by roster of all trained individuals.

To ensure that the IAFF has adequate resources to conduct onsite reviews and audits, license holders will be charged an annual licensing fee of $5,000. Licensing fees are waived for IAFF affiliates, including locals and state/provincial associations. Licensees will also be provided any and all updates to the Program.

Licenses are non-transferable, non-exclusive and terminable at will for any reason and at any time. The IAFF may terminate the license by written notice, effective immediately upon receipt of such notice by the other party, and any fees already paid by the licensee at the time of termination are non-refundable.

The Course, and any written, printed, graphic, or electronically or magnetically recorded information developed in accordance with this Agreement, shall be the sole and exclusive property of the IAFF. In addition, any written, printed, graphic, or electronically or magnetically recorded information furnished by the IAFF for use in carrying out the provisions of this Agreement are the sole property of the IAFF. The IAFF owns the proprietary rights to these IAFF HazMat Training Programs. This proprietary information includes, but is not limited to Course Materials, client lists, marketing information and information concerning the IAFF’s employees, donors, benefactors, products, services, prices, operations and subsidiaries not otherwise available in the normal course of events. The host site will keep this information in the strictest confidence and will not disclose it by any means to any person except with the IAFF’s written approval, and only to the extent necessary to perform under this Agreement. This prohibition also applies to the Host Site employees and agents. Upon termination of this Agreement, the host site will return any confidential information in its possession to the IAFF.

The IAFF has copyrighted its HazMat Training Programs in order to prevent unauthorized use. The IAFF owns the exclusive right to reproduce copies of the IAFF HazMat Training Programs; to prepare derivative works from the IAFF HazMat Training Programs; to distribute the IAFF HazMat Training Programs to the public; and to publicly display this work. The copyright on the IAFF HazMat Training Program is registered with the United States Copyright Office. Because of this registration, the IAFF may invoke certain remedies in a lawsuit for copyright infringement. These remedies include actual damages, injunction, any profits realized by the infringer and statutory damages, including attorneys’ fees and litigation costs. The IAFF’s copyright on its HazMat Training Programs is also afforded complete protection in Canada pursuant to the Universal Copyright Convention. The IAFF reserves all rights under Canadian and international law for copyright infringement and for any illegal use, distribution, copying and creation of derivative works that are not allowed by this license. The IAFF may invoke certain remedies in a lawsuit for copyright infringement. These remedies include actual damages, injunction, any profits realized by the infringer and punitive damages.

This copyright protection extends to any derivative of the IAFF HazMat Training Programs that is “substantially similar” to the Program. Further, the IAFF does NOT grant a license for the creation of derivative works or works that are based on whole or in part on the IAFF HazMat Training Program. This includes works that are written, as well as oral. Specific, written permission is necessary from the IAFF in order to create derivative works.

While the IAFF may permit the reproduction and reprinting of the IAFF HazMat Training Program upon request, this does not authorize the licensee to reprint or reproduce, in whole or in part, the IAFF HazMat Training Program. Specific, written permission is necessary from the IAFF in order to reprint or reproduce the HazMat Program. The IAFF reserves all rights and remedies for copyright infringement for any illegal use, distribution, copying or creation of derivative works that are not covered by this license.

The IAFF is entitled to, and will, institute legal action against any infringement of its exclusive rights or its licensing agreement. The remedies for copyright infringement include obtaining an injunction to prevent further infringement and to ensure the destruction of unauthorized copies. They also include the recovery of any damages suffered by the IAFF, recovery of the profits of the infringer, and the recovery of attorneys’ fees and costs of the litigation.

This license is subject to termination for any reason at the election of the IAFF by written notice. This license cannot be transferred or sub-licensed to any third parties without permission from the IAFF.

The City shall fully indemnify, defend and hold harmless IAFF from and against any and all claims, losses, damages, expenses and liability arising under this Agreement, provided that such claim, loss, damage, expense or liability does not arise from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of the IAFF.

Any notices given under this Agreement by either party to the other must be effected in writing by personal delivery, or by mail, registered or certified postage prepaid with return receipt requested (or delivery by private carrier, e.g., UPS, FedEx, with signature required). Mailed notices must be addressed to the parties at the addresses appearing in the introductory paragraph of this Agreement, but each party may change the address by giving written notice in accordance with this paragraph. Notices delivered personally will be deemed communicated as of actual receipt; mailed notices will be deemed communicated as of the date of receipt or the fifth day after mailing, whichever occurs first.

If any provision of this Agreement is: (i) held by an arbitrator or a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, void, or unenforceable, or (ii) invalidated by state law enacted after the parties entered into this Agreement, the remaining provisions will continue in full force and effect without being impaired or invalidated in any way.

No failure or delay by the IAFF in exercising any right, power, or privilege hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise thereof preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any right, power or privilege hereunder.

The host site is an independent entity and neither the host site nor its agents or employees shall be considered employees or agents of the IAFF. This Agreement does not constitute and shall not be construed as constituting a partnership or joint venture or grant of a franchise between the IAFF and the host site. This Agreement shall not be construed as authority for either party to act for the other party in any agency or other capacity or to make commitments of any kind for the account of or on the behalf of the other, except to the extent and for the purposes provided herein.

This Agreement will be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the District of Columbia. The parties agree that each has reviewed and drafted this Agreement and that the normal rule of construction to the effect that any ambiguities are to be resolved against the drafting party shall not be employed in the interpretation of this Agreement or any revision or exhibit thereto.

This Agreement constitutes the entire understanding of the parties concerning the subject matter hereof. This Agreement supersedes any and all prior agreements, either oral or written, between the parties and contains all of the representations, covenants and agreements between the parties. Each party to this Agreement acknowledges that no representations, inducements, promises, or agreements, orally or otherwise, have been made by any party, which is not contained in this Agreement, and that no other agreement, statement, or promise not contained in this Agreement will be valid or binding. Any modification of this Agreement will be effective only if it is in a writing signed by the parties hereto.

The Articles and other headings contained in this Agreement are meant to organize the document and shall not affect in any way the meaning or interpretation of the terms of this Agreement.

Pro Board® Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board) Certification

Pro Board® Fire Service Professional Qualifications (Pro Board) certification is available for the IAFF HazMat Operations and HazMat Technician programs. The Pro Board® has accredited the IAFF’s HazMat Operations program for the Awareness and Operations level for Core, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Product Control. The Technician program has been accredited to HazMat Technical level provided the student has the proper prerequisites.

Pro Board® recognized certification from the IAFF is an indisputable mark of performance belonging to individual fire service professionals. Each successful candidate for certification from an accredited entity knows that he or she has been measured against peers and meets rigorous national standards.  Certification affords the individual a uniformity and portability of qualifications. In addition, the credibility of the IAFF is enhanced by having our members certified to national consensus standards. The Pro Board® encourages reciprocity among certifying entities. This will help to ensure that Pro Board® certification will be recognized by the department as affiliates seek advancement, and by other departments should they seek to transfer within the fire service.

Once a student passes a Pro Board®-certified HazMat training class by achieving a post-test score of 70% or greater, they will receive an IAFF certificate with a Pro Board seal and their name will be submitted to the Pro Board® registry. Each certificate is customized with the student name, the HazMat course name, date of training, and lists the NFPA and OSHA standards met.

Several weeks after completion of the course, students will receive their Pro Board® certificates and will also be able to locate their name and course in the Pro Board® National Registry. It is important to note that students are asked to provide the last 4 digits of their Social Security Number (SSN) or their Social Insurance Number (SIN) (Canada) in order to view their information on the Pro Board® National Registry. However, if students do not provide their SSN or SIN then they will default to “1750” as their identifier. Find Your Name on the Pro Board® Registry.

Board of Directors of the Pro Board® Committee on Accreditation (COA)
Previously appointed by the General President, Vilma Perez-Atwood, the department’s curricula development coordinator continues to serve as the IAFF’s representative on the Pro Board® COA. In this capacity, she is responsible for the assignment of Pro Board® site visit teams, the approval new and pending accreditations, re-accreditations, extensions to accreditation and other requests from accredited agencies. This is an important role for the IAFF.

Chairperson

 

IAFF State and Local Presidents

Ron Kuley, President, IAFF Local 2068, Fairfax County Professional Fire Fighters and Paramedics

Marty Lancton, President, IAFF Local 341, Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association

Brian Rice, President, IAFF State Association A0005, California Professional Fire Fighters

Jim Tracy, President, IAFF Local 2, Chicago Professional Fire Fighters

 

Technical Members

Instructor-Only Website


U.S. HazMat Master Instructors

A

Tom Abbott
Local 493 – Phoenix, AZ

Russell Accardi
Local 2928 – Delray Beach, FL

Michael Agliato
Local 854 – New York, NY

Chris Albro
Local 2748 – Warwick, RI

Chris Anderson
Local 479 – Tucson, AZ

B

Alyssa Ball
Local 1285 – Las Vegas, NV

​Smith Banks
Local 2068 – Fairfax, VA

Mark Becker
Local 0854 – New York, NY

William Bennett
Local 2800 – Arlington County, VA

Frank Bertog
Local 2 – Chicago, IL

Brett Bigger
Local 864 – Renton, WA

Richard Blohm
Local 3500 – Bergen County, NJ

Michael Bongiorno
Local 215 – Milwaukee, WI

Dana Brown
Local 341 – Houston, TX

C

​Anthony Carbone
Local 94 – New York, NY

Paul Carey
Local 718 – Boston, MA

Kurt Chun
Local 1227 – Berkeley, CA

Hunter Clare
Local 0493 – Phoenix, AZ

Brian Comitto
Local 3260 – Englewood, NJ

Michael Cretu
Local 344 – Detroit, MI

D

​Adam Davies
Local 81 – Salt Lake City, UT

Justin Dawson
Local 140 – Nashville, TN

William Decoteau
Local 1157 – Minot, ND

Paul Dulisse
Local 854 – New York, NY

E

Thomas England
Local 1479 – Merced City, CA

Justin Enzmann
Local 94 – New York, NY

F

Dan Fonseca
Local 493 – Tempe, AZ

G

Daniel Gamiotea
Local 3080 – Metro Broward, FL

Phillip Gauer
Local 0330 – Uniontown, OH

Sheldon George
Local 0094 – New York, NY

David Greisch  
Local 0094 – New York, NY

H

C.J. Haberkorn
Local 858 – Denver, CO

Mark Hamilton
Local 854 – New York, NY

Conn Hayden
Local 345 – Louisville, KY

Steve Hergenreter
Local 622 – Fort Dodge, IA

Sean Hernandez
Local 2881 – Fresno, CA

Tyler Hoke
Local 0947 – Greensboro, NC

Laura Huggins
Local 2068 – Fairfax, VA

I

Robert Ingram
Local 854 – New York, NY

J

Ron Jamison
Local 493 – Phoenix, AZ

K

Erin Krebs
Local 3784 – Hebron, KY

L

Harry “Lance” Lancellotti
Local 964 – Baltimore, MD

James Legg
Local 2 – Chicago, IL

Brandon Leonard
Local 215 – Milwaukee, WI

Joseph Loftus
Local 854 – New York, NY

Heather Lorimor
Local 3574 – Volusia County, FL

M

Diana Matty
Local 727 – W. Palm Beach, FL

Bryce McCormick
Local 37 – Springfield, IL

Joe McGeary
Local 854 – New York, NY

Tony Mussorfiti
Local 0854 – Massapequa, NY

Brian V. Moore
Local 493 – Phoenix, AZ

Neal Mullane, Jr.​
Local 718 – Boston, MA

N

Frank Naglieri
Local 854 – New York, NY

Chris Nechvatal
Local 2 – Chicago, IL

O

Daniel O’Meara
Local 753 – Fresno City, CA

James Orman
Local 140 – Nashville, TN

Del Ortiz
Local 1860 – Newark, NJ

P

Vincent Palma
Local 94 – New York, NY

Enrique Perea
Local 1403 – Miami Dade, FL

Anthony Perrone
Local 0094 – New York, NY

Michael Pylar
Local 858 – Denver, CO

Q

Jon-Randel Quarles
Local 1111 – Westfield, MA

R

Alex Rangel
Local 493 – Tempe, AZ

Josh Reder
Local 94 – New York, NY

Russell Rivard
Local 215 – Milwaukee, WI

Bernie Rodriguez
Local 0094 – New York, NY

Paul Rogers
Local 854 – New York, NY

Scott Russell
Local 1311 – Baltimore County, MD

S

Frank Sanchez
Local 1607 – North Las Vegas, NV

Jennifer Schaefer
Local 0215 – Milwaukee, WI

John Scheurich
Local 2 – Chicago, IL

Chris Sorrentino
Local 3080 – Metro-Broward, FL

Bob Suarez
Local 4 – Des Moines, IA

T

James Thompson
Local 4173 – Lakeland, FL

Nick Trost
Local 215 – Milwaukee, WI

Alvaro Tonanez
Local 1403 – Metro Dade, FL

V

Albert Valerioti
Local 1339 – Watertown, CT

W

Manny Washington
Local 1369 – Orlando, FL

Rusty Welsch
Local 493 – Phoenix, AZ

Robert Wilson
Local 854 – New York, NY

Y

Jeff Young
Local 2881 – Fresno, CA

Canadian HazMat Master Instructors

B

William Brown
Local 3888 – Toronto, ON

C

Brent Cowx
Local 18 – Vancouver, BC

F

Kirk Fudge
Local 3888 – Toronto, ON

G

J.P. Galli
Local 255 – Calgary, AB

L

Joel Lemaire
Local 1286 – Richmond, BC

M

Tyler McCready
Local 1053 – Fredericton, NB

P

Mathieu Prevost
Local 162 – Ottawa, ON

W

Reid C. Wharton
Local 1668 – Campbell River, BC

Bruce White
Local 3888 – Toronto, ON


Become an IAFF Instructor

The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Hazardous Materials Training Department is always committed to recruiting a diverse, adaptive, and qualified instructor cadre. IAFF Master Instructors have a strong hazardous materials or confined space rescue background but are also capable of creating a captivating, dynamic learning environment in the classroom and on the drill ground. Newly appointed instructors are required to participate in a mentorship program as they progress towards becoming a Master Instructor that has the ability to train throughout the United State and Canada. Instructors must commit to teaching for the IAFF at least four times per year and are often chosen to serve as subject matter experts for curriculum development. As the premier HazMat Training delivery agency in the United States, our instructor recruitment process is highly competitive and limited. If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding opportunity as an IAFF Master Instructor, we encourage you to apply!

Please include the following in your application package and submit to [email protected]:

  • Cover letter explaining your interest in being an IAFF HazMat Instructor.
  • Resume with documented teaching experience.
  • Letter of support from your Local President or if you are a Local President, your District Vice President.
  • Video (no longer than 10 minutes) demonstrating your ability to facilitate a class of 16-24 students, work with small groups, debrief an exercise and promote student participation.

Apply for Licensing