Who is responsible for ensuring that training meets the criteria set by AHERA?

The responsibility for ensuring that training meets the criteria set by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) falls on employers and contractors. They are tasked with developing and implementing training programs that adhere to federal regulations and guidelines, making certain that employees receive the appropriate knowledge and skills related to asbestos handling and safety measures.

Employers must ensure that their training programs are in alignment with AHERA standards, which include specific requirements for the content, duration, and frequency of training. This accountability is central to maintaining compliance with asbestos regulations, as inadequate training can lead to unsafe work environments and potential health risks for workers and the community.

While individual workers, state regulatory agencies, and health and safety inspectors play important roles in the asbestos safety landscape, it is the employers and contractors who bear the primary responsibility for the establishment and oversight of training standards as mandated by AHERA.