Simulation Exercise Brings Together Asbestos and HAZWOPER Students for Real-World Training
In a unique and immersive simulation exercise led by UF TREEO instructors Cindy Mercado, CSP, and William Dempsey, CSP/CHMM, LAC. Students from the UF TREEO Center’s 24/40 Hour HAZWOPER course and the Asbestos Contractor/Supervisor course came together to address a real-world scenario: identifying and cleaning up a spill of an unknown hazardous material. This crossover exercise fostered collaboration, transformed classroom knowledge into hands-on experience, and prepared students for the complexities of actual workplace situations.
Throughout the exercise, students worked as a team to follow proper response procedures—from notifying the building manager and requesting evacuation, identifying the substance, selecting appropriate PPE, and ultimately conducting clean-up, disposal, and decontamination. To enhance realism, the exercise incorporated AI and technology to overcome language barriers and facilitate communication. William Dempsey emphasized, “Simulating real-world workplace scenarios like this is crucial for preparing students for the unexpected challenges they’ll face on the job. It’s one thing to learn procedures in the classroom, but entirely different to practice them in a dynamic, high-pressure environment.”
The exercise was highly successful, with students demonstrating effective teamwork and the ability to apply their knowledge practically. Cindy Mercado noted, “Bringing asbestos and HAZWOPER students together sharpened communication and role clarity. When disciplines align, safety moves faster than the hazard.”
Interested in learning more about asbestos or hazardous waste training?
For asbestos training, contact Melissa Hamilton at Melissajhamilton@treeo.ufl.edu or 352-294-3879.
For hazardous waste training, contact Cindy Mercado at Cindy.mercado@ufl.edu or 352-294-7047.
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