Training and certification for facilities

Our rules require many oil-handling and marine-fueling facilities to develop training and certification programs for employees involved with oil-handling operations or equipment. These training and certification programs teach employees about the hazards of oil and oil spills, safe facility operations, and spill response and notification procedures.

Requirements for Class 1 and 2 facilities

We require Class 1 and 2 facilities to develop comprehensive training and certification programs. Class 1 and 2 facilities must train and certify all applicable personnel before they conduct an oil transfer operation.

Facilities must comply with the requirements of  WAC 173-180 that became effective on July 7, 2023, by the expiration of their current approval for their training and certification program.

We conduct a formal review of the oil-handlers training and certification program at each Class 1 and Class 2 facility every five years. Contact our Facility Engineer Lead if you need help identifying the engineer or inspector to start your review process.

Requirements for Class 3 and 4 facilities

Washington’s rule requires that Class 3 facilities meet the U.S. Coast Guard’s training requirements. We conduct routine inspections at these facilities to ensure compliance with state and federal rules.

Class 4 facilities must provide initial training for employees within the first 90 days on the job. After the initial training, owners and operators must provide annual training events for employees. We inspect facility training records annually to ensure proper education and training for staff at marinas and small fueling stations.