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TDEC Training and Certification Opportunities

June 16, 2022 Last Edit: June 5, 2025

TDEC Training and Certification Opportunities

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation is offering a variety of training for regulated businesses:

Waste

Pharmaceuticals Rule and Nicotine Amendments
A four-hour workshop will be offered after the amendments become effective.
RCRA 101 Workshop
Topics discussed in this class will include waste determinations, generator classification, generator requirements, record keeping/reporting, used oil, and universal waste.
Statewide Uniform Inspection Training (SUIT)
This now virtual training is designed to provide solid waste facility operators and employees with a basic knowledge of the state facility inspection program. SUIT provides information regarding the policies and regulatory citations associated with each item on the inspection document.
Lead Abatement Certification
Individuals engaged in lead-based paint (LBP) activities in “target housing” and “child-occupied facilities” in Tennessee must have certification through the State. Certification requires completion of an appropriate LBP training course from a State of TN certified training provider AND must pass TDEC’s certification exam. A study guide is available on the division’s website.
Asbestos
While TDEC does not offer asbestos training, those who are conducting asbestos activities must submit asbestos accreditation forms to TDEC. If you need asbestos accreditation, a list of currently accredited online training providers is available. More information about TDEC’s abestos requirements is also available.
Mold Remediation
TDEC does not offer any certifications for mold remediation because there are no established standards, rules, or guidelines for mold remediation. However, some certifications are available through third-party groups.

Air

Visible Emissions Evaluation (Smoke School)
Certain air sources require evaluation of its visible emissions by a facility’s air permit. TDEC offers the Visible Emissions Evaluation course to be able to fulfil this requirement. The course includes a lecture and an in-field evaluation.

Water

Construction Stormwater Training
Though not offered by TDEC, this University of Tennessee-led training is required for persons involved in erosion prevention and sediment controls at construction sites. The Level 1 course is designed and required for persons tasked with conducting inspections of the construction site. The Level 2 course is geared towards those who are designing erosion and sediment control measures at construction sites.
Fleming Training Center
The Fleming Training Center offers a variety of courses for water and wastewater treatment plant operators.

Underground Storage Tanks

UST Tank School
This virtual training is designed to help increase tank owners and operators understanding of regulatory compliance with UST rules, prepare for future inspections, and new regulations. The class covers UST systems equipment, operations, testing requirements, recordkeeping and reporting requirements and specific topics to the TN UST Program.

Dry Cleaning

Environmental Compliance Training

All TN drycleaners must have a valid training certificate to register each year. Drycleaners have the option of completing the Environmental Compliance Training offered by TDEC or the Certified Environmental Drycleaner (CED) exam offered by the Drycleaning and Laundry Institute. TDEC’s trainings are free and offered online. Certification is valid for 3 years.

This list is not entirely comprehensive of all of the training the department provides or requires. If you have questions about other training or certification requirements, contact the department directly with your question.

Topics:

Regulations

State:

Tennessee

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