I am guessing that Hazmat operators are like many other 'specialist operators' becoming harder to find. Kat states her neighbouring groups have problems finding operators, I suspect she is not alone as its something that isn't often used.
This is a problem when it comes to training too! If you don't use the skill and don't train in it very often, how do you keep your competencies.
Hazmat adds an extra layer or three of complexity onto BA and fire fighting - namely you need to be competent in those two skills first then in Hazmat. Now the practical normalisation (clean up) at a hazmat is not rocket science, however the knowledge of how too, what to use, what reacts with what, what neutralises what and how to apply, remove or contain is a little more complex. Then there is the issue of dressing and undressing of operators. Unfortunately this is usually the problem area - it's a step by step process - but often in hast short cuts are taken - another training issue.
Im guessing the long and short of it is training, on-going training and maintaining competence.
Then theres the little issue of costs for a basic hazmat kit!
For those who have the time and are keen then the effort is great, however with so many things being put on people with specialist skills - these areas are suffering and people aren't reaccrediting or undertaking the initial training like they once did!
