OSHA 15-Hour Disaster Site Worker Course

The OSHA 15-Hour Disaster Site Worker Course is designed for workers assigned to natural or human-made disaster sites as second responders. This includes construction workers, utility crews, public employees, and qualified volunteers involved in disaster recovery operations.

The OSHA 15-Hour Disaster Site Worker Course builds on the 7.5-hour program and delivers expanded, in-depth instruction to help workers recognize, avoid, and properly respond to safety and health hazards found in disaster environments. This course strengthens practical knowledge needed to operate safely in unstable and high-risk conditions.

Through interactive discussions, hands-on exercises, demonstrations, and scenario-based learning, the OSHA 15-Hour Disaster Site Worker Course prepares participants to manage real-world challenges during disaster response. The training focuses on hazard identification, safe work practices, proper use of personal protective equipment, and coordinated response procedures.

The OSHA 15-Hour Disaster Site Worker Course follows OSHA standards and industry best practices, emphasizing the worker’s responsibility in maintaining safety during disaster site operations. As an advanced-level disaster site safety training program, it helps ensure workers are properly prepared before entering emergency work zones.

What You Will Learn

Participants in the OSHA 15-Hour Disaster Site Worker Course will learn how to:

• Understand the structure and function of the Incident Command System (ICS)
• Identify hazards unique to disaster sites, including structural instability, debris, and hazardous materials
• Select, use, and maintain Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including understanding its limitations
• Demonstrate proper respiratory protection procedures, including selection and fit testing
• Follow decontamination procedures and safely handle contaminated equipment
• Apply clear communication strategies within disaster environments
• Implement best practices for disaster work zone safety
• Understand OSHA safety and health standards related to emergency response

Topics Covered

The OSHA 15-Hour Disaster Site Worker Course includes detailed coverage of:

• National Response Framework (NRF)
• Incident Command System (ICS)
• Disaster Work Zone Safety
• Respiratory Protection and Fit Testing
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
• Decontamination Methods
• Communication in Disaster Environments
• Chemical, Biological, and Physical Hazard Recognition
• Elements of Successful Adult Learning
• OSHA Disaster Site Safety and Health Standards

Each module within the OSHA 15-Hour Disaster Site Worker Course is structured to reinforce practical application in active disaster recovery settings.

Prerequisite

To enroll in the OSHA 15-Hour Disaster Site Worker Course, participants must have completed either:

• OSHA 10-Hour Construction Outreach Training,
• OSHA 30-Hour Construction Outreach Training, or
• OSHA 10 or 30-Hour General Industry Outreach Training.

Proof of completion is required prior to registration.