Gulf Oil Spill cleanup jobs

[URY914]

Do you think there are REAL jobs to be had or just talk and internet BS? I've been out of work for 6 months and need some cash flow. Before I invest in OHSA HAZMAT training I wanted to run it up the flag pole on PPOT. Most of the ads require this training. I sure would like to talk to a real person and see if these jobs are real. The money is pretty good and with my experience I figure I could find something.

Anyone have some first hand knowledge if the situation?

[Porsche-O-Phile]

Having an OSHA certification never hurts.

I can't speak specifically to these ads, but I'd tend to think having the cert would help tremendously but there are likely to be a few places desperate for help that will spring for the training too - but why bet on it?

I'd get it if I were serious about trying to get on.

Also get the 10-hour safety certification (required to be on job sites in general now).

[cashflyer]

I have a few general recommendations.

First, find out if the employers require the 40 hour training course or the 24 hour training course. The differences are in the amount of exposure you are anticipated to have, and the difference between being a General Site Worker or an Occasional Site Worker.

Second, be careful about spending your money on the online certification courses. The OSHA requirements for a 40-hour course are classroom instruction plus three days of supervised field experience. In other words, you may not be "ready to work" just because you have an online course certificate. [OSHA opinion letter]

Third, and finally, there are always "quick buck" companies that pop up to take advantage of situations like this. Know who you are working for, and know how well you are covered for liability and for injury.

Unfortunately, I don't have any advice about any actual opportunities that may exist.

[cashflyer]

A quick google scan reveals that P2S is BP's official contractor for cleanup.

They advertised that they may hire as many as 500 people, and several thousand applications have already been received. They are no longer taking any direct applications or resumes, but advise you to check with your local state employment office.

http://www.p2sworld.com/BP_Oil_Spill_Cleanup.html


There is also speculation that between National Guard and BP Employees, there will be few jobs for outsiders.

Have you looked here?
http://www.cleanupoil.com/forums/index.php?/forum/2-meetings-materials-jobs-and-more/

[URY914]

The OHSA class I've looked in to is the real deal and includes the hands on three days. The class is given by the local University not a private company.

I've visited that forum website. Not much help really.

[RWebb]

I'm sure that out of work shrimpers and oyster/fish processors, fishermen, etc. will get preference, then other locals.

It sure won't hurt for you to inquire.

Good Luck!

[David]

I have a friend from here in Clear Lake who went a couple weeks ago. I think he's only making about $20/hr. I can find out more if you're interested.

[widgeon13]

I think the long range health hazard of working in that environment are too risky considering the compensation.

[sammyg2]

I've got a CFR 1910.120 (HAZWOPER) certification I could loan out, it's for the 240 hour level but it's from back in the late 80's so not sure if it's still any good

[sammyg2]

Originally Posted by widgeon13

I think the long range health hazard of working in that environment are too risky considering the compensation.

Having BTDT I totally disagree.
Appropriate personal protective equipment for the task ensures exposure limits well below acceptable OSHA standards.

[URY914]

Originally Posted by David

I have a friend from here in Clear Lake who went a couple weeks ago. I think he's only making about $20/hr. I can find out more if you're interested.

Sure if you don't mind. I'd like a little first hand knowledge. Thanks

[bell]

I would check with florida....not necassarily through bp though....our state has already begun cleaning up as soon as it hits, in pensacola they've already started as it just hit there. BP showed up and told them they "can't do this" and the city told them to f' off......from what I just saw on the news......
Fl has more used beaches then the other states and it's income from tourism is 60% of it......I forsee at least 4 months of fulltime cleanup at an absolute minimum......

[URY914]

Seems that the waiting lists for hiring are getting long. I spoke to two different companies and they are not currently hiring.

[David]

I still haven't heard anything from my friend. I guess he's pretty busy.