Remediation work aims to reduce environmental contamination to make areas suitable for other uses. Post-secondary education is mandatory, with university degrees in chemistry, biochemistry, or environmental science offering the most flexibility for promotion. Experience is gained through internships, and protective gear is required for on-site work. Legislation around safe remediation methods has increased, making post-secondary education a requirement.
Remediation work is a term used to describe the environmental remediation industry. Its main objective is to reduce, contain or eliminate environmental contamination of natural resources, so that the area can be suitable for other uses. For example, reducing or containing hazardous chemical levels in soil so land can be developed for habitation is an example of remediation work.
Environmental contamination is created when manufacturing or processing plants allow by-products or hazardous materials to be absorbed into soil or groundwater. It is important to realize that the main objective of this sector is to reduce the level of risk to currently acceptable levels. This industry is highly regulated, providing strict reporting requirements, procedures, and guidelines.
Post-secondary education is mandatory to start remediation work. The training required to understand what is needed and the options available is simply not provided in high school. Although many of the techniques are learned on the job, the risk of unnecessary illness and death is quite high if operators do not have a clear understanding of biochemistry, biology or environmental processes.
There are two levels of education options: university or college. University training offers the most flexibility for promotion within this industry. A degree in chemistry, biochemistry or environmental science is required. A college training program limits the promotional opportunities available, but it is necessary to get started in this industry. Training as a chemical technologist or environmental technician is usually required.
Experience is typically gained through an internship program, offered by the post-secondary training program. Obtaining your top position in the remediation treatment industry requires a willingness to complete physical work or operate machinery. Increased exposure to hazardous materials is part of that job, and candidates should be aware of the implications of this risk. Working on site typically requires protective gear, which can be quite claustrophobic, heavy and hot. It is important to be prepared to physically move or travel a lot in this type of work.
In the 1980s and 1990s, it was much easier to start remediation work in North America. Educational requirements were limited to a high school diploma and completion of a short training course. However, a number of high-profile incidents and lawsuits have significantly increased legislation around safe remediation methods. As a result, applicants must have completed a recognized post-secondary education program. Many organizations provide additional training to ensure that all employees have a clear understanding of the position’s requirements.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
