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NYS & EPA Environmental Health and Safety (EHS) Training FAQs
What is Environmental Health & Safety (EHS) Training, and how does it impact workplace compliance?
EHS Training is specialized education focused on keeping professionals safe, healthy, and informed. Whether you are navigating asbestos, mold, or lead paint regulations, or simply staying OSHA-compliant, our training provides the expert skills needed to handle hazardous environments with professional-level knowledge.
Why is EHS Training essential for minimizing workplace hazards and meeting OSHA safety standards?
EHS Training is critical for workplace safety, skill development, and environmental protection. For those performing regulated work in the asbestos, lead paint, mold, or hazardous materials fields, these accredited courses are a legal requirement to ensure the safety of the individual and the community.
Who is required to take EHS Training, and which industries are most affected by NYS safety regulations?
EHS Training is designed for environmental consultants, contractors, home improvement companies, restoration firms, property managers, school staff, and maintenance crews. Essentially, anyone who supervises contractors or might encounter environmental hazards in their daily operations needs these certifications.
Are CNS Environmental’s courses accredited by the EPA, NYSDOL, and other regulatory governing bodies?
Absolutely. Our courses are fully accredited and meet the rigorous training requirements of OSHA, EPA, NYSDOL, NYSDOH, and NYCDEP. Depending on the discipline and your location, our certifications are also accepted by other states through reciprocity.
What course delivery methods do you offer (In-Person, Live Webinar, or On-Site Corporate Training)?
We offer flexible learning options to fit your needs, including in-person sessions, live online webinars, and hybrid formats. Whether you prefer the classroom environment or the convenience of learning from home, we have a solution for you.
Do you offer flexible scheduling for safety training, including evening or weekend course options?
No. We understand the demands of the industry, which is why we offer courses after hours on weeknights and during weekends to accommodate your busy work schedule.
Where are CNS Environmental's training centers located, and do you provide on-site training for businesses?
Our primary training facility and corporate headquarters are in Plainview (Long Island) at 208 Newtown Road. We also hold regularly scheduled classes at our Queens facility in Bayside (214-29 42nd Avenue).
How will I receive the specific address and directions for my scheduled in-person training session?
Your course location is clearly displayed on our website's course page and is included in your initial confirmation and subsequent reminder emails. If you are ever unsure, our team is just a phone call away.
What documents or materials (IDs, existing licenses, etc.) should I bring to my environmental training class?
At minimum, you must bring a valid government-issued photo ID.
For Refreshers, bring proof of prior training and your current "hard card."
For any Asbestos or Mold course, you are required to have a NYSDMV ID#. If you don’t have one – no big deal. You’ll just need to go to the NYSDMV with acceptable proofs of your identity to get your photo taken and get an ID #. Go to our Student Resources page and look for the form: NYS DMV Request For Photo Image & Acceptable Proofs of ID.
For Asbestos Management Planner training, you’ll also need to give us your Asbestos Inspector training certificate dated less than one year from your Management Planner course.
For Lead Risk Assessor Initial training, you’ll need to give us proof that you’ve taken the pre-requisite Lead Inspector training.
Does CNS Environmental offer individual discounts or a loyalty program for returning students and referrals?
Yes! Join our free Loyalty Program to get 10% off your first class and earn points for future bookings. You can also join our Referral Program; your friends get 50 points, and you get 10% off for every friend who books a class with your unique link.
Do you offer corporate or group discount rates for companies training multiple employees at once?
You bet. We offer competitive volume-based deals and corporate rates for businesses, schools, and organizations training multiple people. Reach out to us for a custom quote to certify your entire team.
Will I receive a formal Certificate of Completion or "Diploma" immediately after passing my course?
Yes. Upon successful completion of any accredited course, you will receive a certificate of completion. Please note that in most cases, this certificate is a prerequisite for your license, but you must still apply to the EPA, NYS, or NYC to receive your official licensure.
After completing my training, what is the process for submitting my license application to the State or EPA?
Applying for your Asbestos, Lead, or Mold license can now be done entirely online. Your specific course determines the application path. We provide full, step-by-step instructions for all jurisdictions on our certification instructions page.
And don’t forget – you need to work for a license/certifiedcompany! If the company you work for (or the company you own) isn’t licensed yet – follow these instructions provided at the end of each section at www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
What secure payment methods are accepted for course registration (Credit Cards, POs, or Invoicing)?
We make payment easy by accepting all major credit and debit cards, checks, cash, and corporate purchase orders for larger organizations.
Is pre-registration required, or can I pay for my environmental safety course upon arrival at the facility?
While we accept payment at in-person classes, we strongly recommend booking online. Our classes are first-come, first-served; booking through our website is the only way to guarantee your spot and ensure the class isn't sold out or rescheduled.
What is CNS Environmental’s refund and cancellation policy for in-person and online webinar courses?
We offer a full refund if you contact us to cancel at least 5 business days before the course start date. For a full list of policies, exceptions, and details, please visit our training course policies page.
What is the protocol for rescheduling if an emergency prevents me from attending my scheduled class?
We understand the industry is unpredictable. If a last-minute emergency occurs, simply give us a call. We have a steady lineup of class dates and will work with you to find a future session that fits your schedule.
What are the qualifications and industry experience of CNS Environmental’s certified safety instructors?
Our instructors are true environmental aficionados with real-world, practical, and logical experience in the fields they teach. They hold the highest professional certifications and are dedicated to ensuring you leave class feeling confident and ready to apply your skills.
What is Asbestos, and why is specialized safety training legally required?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral valued for its fireproof and durable properties. However, inhaling its microscopic fibers causes severe health issues. Because of these risks, federal and state laws strictly mandate specialized training for anyone identifying, handling, or disturbing asbestos-containing materials (ACM).
What types of Asbestos Initial and Refresher training courses does CNS Environmental offer?
We offer a comprehensive lineup of NYS-approved trainings, including:
How do I determine which Asbestos Training course is required for my specific job role?
Your role dictates your training: Handlers perform removal; Supervisors manage abatement teams; Inspectors identify ACM; Project Monitors oversee safety compliance; Designers create abatement plans; and Allied Trades (plumbers/electricians) perform minor work around asbestos. Awareness is for general knowledge, while O&M is for those working near asbestos without disturbing it.
What is the difference between an Asbestos Project Monitor and an Air Sampling Technician regarding duties?
A Project Monitor oversees the entire abatement project for safety and compliance. An Air Sampling Technician specifically collects and analyzes air samples. If you complete Project Monitor training, you qualify for both roles; you simply need to select both licenses on your NYSDOL application without taking a second course.
Can I enroll in multiple Asbestos certification courses at once to expand my credentials?
Absolutely. Many environmental professionals hold multiple certifications—such as being both an Inspector and a Project Designer—to offer a wider range of services to their clients.
Are your Asbestos training courses NYS (New York State) approved and EPA accredited?
Yes. All CNS Enviro asbestos courses are fully approved by the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH), the governing body for asbestos training in New York, and meet EPA MAP standards.
How often do I need to renew my Asbestos certification to remain compliant?
Annually. Training is valid for one year. You must complete a refresher course every year. There is a one-year grace period for training, but you cannot work during this time. If you exceed two years since your last training date, you must retake the Initial Course.
How early can I complete an Asbestos Refresher course before my current certification expires?
While NYSDOL allows refreshers up to 11 months early, we recommend training 30–90 days before expiration. Training too early resets your "anniversary clock" with the NYSDOH, while training late risks your hard card not arriving before your old one expires.
For those of you who have a big disparity between your training month and your certification expiration month (ex. Trained in May 2025 and your certification expires in September 2026) – start inching your refresher training closer to your certification expiration date to make your life easy. If you go over the 1.5-year mark between training classes, you may be required to take 2 Refresher classes.
And don’t get anywhere close to your 2-year mark between training. Because you’ll have to retake the Initial class as soon as you go over the 2-year mark, even by 1 day.
Can I take your New York Asbestos Training if I reside or work in another state?
Yes. Our training is accepted via reciprocity in many states, including CT, ME, MA, NH, NJ, PA, and VT. We recommend checking with your specific state agency to confirm they will accept NYS-approved credentials before booking.
Am I required to pass a proctored exam to receive my Asbestos course completion certificate?
Yes. To comply with NYSDOH regulations, all courses end with an exam designed to reinforce field safety. If you don't pass on your first attempt, you are permitted two additional retakes to achieve a passing score.
If I completed my Asbestos training in another state, can I still qualify for certification in New York?
In most cases, yes. You must first submit a Reciprocity Application (DOH-4353) to the NYSDOH. Once approved, you must complete a NYS Asbestos Refresher course. We then provide the documentation required to finalize your NYS license application.
I’ve successfully completed my Asbestos training course—what are my next steps for state licensing?
Apply for your license ASAP via the NYSDOL MPWR System. We will mail your official DOH-2832 (DOL Copy) within 5 days. Ensure you sign the signature field before submitting. You must also ensure you are working for a licensed/certified asbestos company.
View our instructions on how to apply for your license.
If you just completed your Initial Course, you’re permitted to start working right away - but for no longer than 45 days after your course completion date (roughly 6 weeks so you can allow for your asbestos license (“hard card”) to come in the mail (this 45-day rule does not apply to Refresher Courses).
And don’t forget – you need to work for a license/certified company! If the company you work for (or the company you own) isn’t licensed yet – follow these instructions.
Can I legally start working on an abatement project immediately with the training certificate provided?
For Initial Courses only, you may work for up to 45 days using your DOH-2832 Student Copy while your hard card is processed. This 45-day rule does not apply to Refresher courses; if your card is expired, you must stop work until the new one arrives.
How can I check the status of my NYS Asbestos license application if my hard card hasn't arrived?
If it has been over 4 weeks, call the NYSDOL at (518) 457-2735 or check the MPWR online portal. Remember, the 45-day temporary work window for initial students starts from your course completion date, not your application date.
My Asbestos license has expired—what are the specific steps for reinstatement or retraining?
You must stop all asbestos work immediately. If your last training was less than 2 years ago, you can take a refresher course to renew. If it has been more than 2 years, you are legally required to retake the full Initial Course.
How can I find the most up-to-date schedule for upcoming NYS Asbestos Initial or Refresher training?
Our full schedule of NYS-approved asbestos courses is maintained in real-time at cnsenviro.com. Because asbestos certifications require annual refreshers, we hold classes every month. If you don't see a specific discipline like Project Monitor or Inspector listed, contact us and we will find a date that works.
Do you offer emergency scheduling for urgent Asbestos certification needs to prevent work stoppages?
If you have a critical project deadline and don't see a class on the site, call us immediately. For corporate groups or teams of 5 or more, we can often schedule a custom Asbestos class with as little as 4 days' notice to ensure your crew stays compliant and on the job site.
What is Mold, and why is NYS-certified training required for professional remediation?
Mold is a type of fungus that thrives in damp, dark environments. Beyond property damage, it can cause significant health issues. Due to these risks, New York State law requires anyone professionally identifying or treating mold to have expert training and licensing.
What NYSDOL-approved Mold Initial and Refresher training courses does CNS Environmental offer?
We offer a full suite of NYSDOL-approved courses, including:
Is Mold Training and licensing legally required in New York State under Labor Law Article 32?
Absolutely. Under NYS Labor Law Article 32, if you are assessing, remediating, or supervising any mold-related work in New York, you must complete a NYSDOL-approved training course and obtain a state license.
Are NYS Mold Initial or Refresher courses available in a live online (webinar) format?
We offer Mold Awareness and Mold Refreshers online. However, per NYS regulations, Initial Assessor, Worker, and Contractor/Supervisor courses must be taken in-person because they require mandatory hands-on activities.
Am I required to pass a proctored exam to receive my New York State Mold Certification?
Yes (for all Initial courses). Our exams are fully compliant with NYSDOL regulations and are designed to reinforce classroom learning. If you don't pass on your first attempt, you are permitted two additional retakes.
I’ve finished my Mold course—how do I submit my application to the NYS Department of Labor?
First, apply for your NYS license ASAP. Within 5 days of your course, CNS Environmental will email your Certificate of Completion and application forms. You can submit these via the NYS MPWR system.
Remember: you cannot legally start mold work until you receive your license.
See our full instructions on how to apply for your license.
You can not start working until you receive your license!
And don’t forget – you need to work for a license/certified company! If the company you work for (or the company you own) isn’t licensed yet – follow these instructions provided at the end of each section at www.cnsenviro.com/certification-instructions.
Can I legally perform mold assessment or remediation with just my course completion certificate?
No. Unlike asbestos initial training, there is no "grace period" for mold. You must wait until you have the physical NYS Mold License "hard card" in your possession before performing any mold-related work.
How often do I need to renew my NYS Mold License, and what are the continuing education requirements?
Your NYS Mold License must be renewed every two years. You are required to complete a Mold Refresher course to maintain your eligibility. We offer these refreshers monthly to help you stay compliant.
How far in advance of my license expiration can I take the mandatory Mold Refresher course?
You can take your Mold Refresher up to one year before your current license expires. We recommend scheduling this early to ensure there is no lapse in your ability to work.
How can I check the status of my NYS Mold License application if my hard card hasn't arrived?
If it has been more than 4 weeks, call the NYSDOL at (518) 457-2735 or check the MPWR online portal. Reminder: You are strictly prohibited from working on any mold project until the physical "hard card" arrives.
What are the NYSDOL requirements for reinstating an expired Mold Assessor or Contractor license?
You must stop all mold work immediately. If your license has been expired for one year or less, you can simply take a Refresher. If it has been expired for more than one year without a refresher, you must retake the full Initial course.
Where can I view the upcoming calendar for NYS Mold Assessor, Remediation, and Abator courses?
All available dates for NYS Mold training—including our in-person Initial courses and our online Refreshers—are listed on our website. We update our calendar frequently to ensure professionals can meet their biennial renewal requirements without stress.
Can CNS Environmental provide expedited or on-site Mold training for restoration teams with urgent needs?
While we recommend booking in advance, we understand the urgency of mold remediation projects. If our public schedule doesn't fit your timeline, reach out. We can arrange On-Site Corporate Training for groups of 5+, providing the hands-on instruction required by NYS on your timeline.
What is Lead-Based Paint, and why is it considered a major environmental health hazard?
Lead-based paint is a legacy material used extensively before the 1978 federal ban. While durable, it contains toxic lead that poses severe neurological health risks, particularly to children and pregnant women.
What EPA-accredited Lead Initial and Refresher training courses does CNS Environmental offer?
We provide a full range of EPA-accredited training, including:
Is Lead Safety training legally required for contractors and environmental professionals?
Yes. If your work disturbs lead-based paint, training is mandatory. Requirements vary: some areas like New York and Florida are EPA-administered, while other states manage their own programs.
What is the difference between EPA Lead RRP Certification and Lead Abatement Supervisor Certification?
RRP Certification is for renovation and repair work that disturbs lead as a byproduct of the activity in pre-1978 housing. Lead Supervisor Certification focuses on intentional abatement—permanently removing or managing existing lead hazards.
Are EPA Lead Initial or Refresher training courses available as online webinars?
Our EPA Refresher courses are available in a convenient online format. However, all Initial courses require in-person attendance to complete mandatory hands-on skills training.
How often must I renew my Lead Paint certification to maintain compliance with EPA regulations?
RRP Renovators must renew every 5 years with a refresher course. All other Lead certifications (Inspector, Risk Assessor, Supervisor, Worker) must be renewed periodically by taking a discipline-specific refresher.
How early should I complete my Lead Refresher course before my current license expires?
We recommend starting your refresher search 18 months before expiration (and no later than 6 months prior). The EPA does not shorten your license period for training early; they renew based on your current expiration date.
How do I manage renewals if I hold multiple EPA Lead certifications, such as Inspector and Risk Assessor?
Each certification is independent. You must complete a separate refresher course and submit separate applications on the EPA CDX platform for every discipline you hold.
I’ve finished my Lead training—what are the immediate next steps for receiving my EPA license?
For RRP, your course certificate serves as your individual license. For all other disciplines, you receive an Interim Certificate valid for 180 days; you must apply for your full EPA licensure on CDX within 30 days to avoid expiration.
What is an EPA Lead Interim Certificate, and why does it expire after 180 days?
The EPA issues 180-day Interim Certificates to allow you time to perform work while you submit your application and pass the required federal-level exam. If it expires before you finish the process, you must retake the Initial Course.
Can I legally begin lead-related work immediately after completing my training course?
For RRP: Yes, provided your firm is also certified. For other Lead courses: Yes, you can use your Interim Certificate to work for up to 180 days while waiting for your full EPA license.
Am I required to pass a proctored exam to receive my Lead certification?
Yes. All courses require a compliant exam to reinforce safety knowledge. Additionally, Inspectors, Risk Assessors, and Supervisors must pass a separate third-party EPA-level exam after submitting their application.
What is the EPA Third-Party Exam, and how do I schedule it for my lead certification?
Initial applicants for Inspector, Risk Assessor, or Supervisor roles must pass an EPA-level exam. You will receive an scheduling letter via email within 2 days of your application submission. Recertifications do not require this extra exam.
Can I get a Federal EPA Lead Certification if I already hold a license from an authorized State program?
Yes. If your state program is EPA-authorized, you can apply for federal certification by submitting your valid state license, a passport photo, and the required fee via CDX. You do not need to retake the initial course or the EPA exam.
What should I do if my 180-day Lead Interim Certificate is close to expiring?
Because the EPA has a zero-day grace period, if you have less than 30 days left, we recommend retaking the Initial Course to get a new 180-day window. This ensures you have enough time to process the application and pass the exam.
My EPA Lead certification has expired—what are the mandatory steps for reinstatement?
The EPA enforces a strict zero-day grace period. If your license expires even by one day, you are legally required to retake the full Initial Course and reapply for a new license.
How can I check the status of my EPA Lead license application if I haven't received it?
Check your email and CDX Inbox for correspondence from lead.paint@epa.gov. If you cannot find your approval, contact the EPA CDX Help Line at 888-890-1995 for assistance.
How do I find the next available dates for EPA Lead RRP or Lead Abatement Supervisor training?
You can view our live schedule for all EPA-accredited lead courses at cnsenviro.com. We offer a steady rotation of RRP Renovator, Lead Inspector, and Supervisor classes to ensure you can meet the EPA's strict certification windows.
Are there emergency options for Lead RRP or Abatement training if my certification is about to expire?
Because the EPA has a zero-day grace period, we prioritize helping students avoid expiration. If you are in a time crunch, call or text us. For companies with 5 or more employees, we can set up a private lead safety class to get your team certified and authorized to work immediately.
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