The HazMat Guys

Bobby Salvesen and Mike Monaco
  • 4.9 (11)
  • COURSES
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

From a spark of knowledge on a podcast to a comprehensive training hub, we empower responders of all levels in the ever-evolving world of hazmat response. Through hundreds of episodes, online courses, and in-person programs, we bridge the gap between novice and expert, fostering a collaborative community of continuous learning. Together, we equip responders with the skills and knowledge to navigate hazardous situations safely and effectively.

  1. 2D AGO

    THMG535 – AI for the Win Again | Part III

    We had great traction with the last AI episode, so we dived a little deeper and created a miniseries on the topic. More to come on this one, so strap in, this landscape is shiftingquickly. EPISODE SPONSORSRigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders facing unknown hazards. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in difficult samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform expands accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.https://www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology ensures rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.https://defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices delivers handheld chemical analysis tools addressing fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial hazards, and global security threats. Responders use these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards—bulk or trace—directly at the point of need.https://www.908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while maintaining safe gas levels.https://www.obexionfr.comFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Fire Suppression Solutions, based in Slinger, Wisconsin, is the U.S. master distributor for advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven through testing to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires. Products include A & B fire solutions and BSI-rated systems across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.https://www.firesuppressionsolutions.comTRAINING & RESOURCESthehazmatguys.comthehazmatguys.com/trainingthehazmatguys.com/contactBOOKS & PRODUCTSNHERD Volume 1 — linkNHERD Volume 2 — linkAre You Compliant? — linkBuilding a HazMat Team — linkYou Suck at Teaching HazMat — linkNERHD: The Game — linkMEDIA NETWORKHazard Class — linkIndustrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder — linkMERCHthehazmatguys.com/storeFOLLOWFacebook — linkInstagram — linkLinkedIn — linkYouTube — linkDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Sport Rock & Workout

    29 min

  2. FEB 6

    THMG534 Hazard Class interviews Dr. Norman

    Since we are wrapping up our first conference in lovely downtown Key West Florida we stepped back and had our intrepid interviewer Jake Ryks who got the chance to sit down with Dr. Mark Norman. Check out this background interview and learn who the man is. It’s seriously inciteful if your thinking about doing Chemistry.EPISODE SPONSORSRigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders facing unknown hazards. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in difficult samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform expands accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.https://www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology ensures rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.https://defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices delivers handheld chemical analysis tools addressing fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial hazards, and global security threats. Responders use these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards—bulk or trace—directly at the point of need.https://www.908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while maintaining safe gas levels.https://www.obexionfr.comFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Fire Suppression Solutions, based in Slinger, Wisconsin, is the U.S. master distributor for advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven through testing to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires. Products include A & B fire solutions and BSI-rated systems across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.https://www.firesuppressionsolutions.comTRAINING & RESOURCESthehazmatguys.comthehazmatguys.com/trainingthehazmatguys.com/contactBOOKS & PRODUCTSNHERD Volume 1 — linkNHERD Volume 2 — linkAre You Compliant? — linkBuilding a HazMat Team — linkYou Suck at Teaching HazMat — linkNERHD: The Game — linkMEDIA NETWORKHazard Class — linkIndustrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder — linkMERCHthehazmatguys.com/storeFOLLOWFacebook — linkInstagram — linkLinkedIn — linkYouTube — linkDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™

    1h 28m

  3. FEB 3 · BONUS

    THMG533a – Lithium Ion Suppression Showdown

    Guests John Glazier • Packaging Engineer (RIT graduate) • 25+ years in chemical and dangerous goods packaging • Representative at DGO, specializing in lithium-ion battery containment and transport • Expert in third-party testing, thermal runaway mitigation, and DOT-compliant packaging Contact: • Email: jglazier@dgo.com John Orlando • Retired Fire Marshal with FDNY (27 years) • Former Supervising Fire Marshal specializing in origin-and-cause investigations • Founder of Orlando Safety Solutions • Instrumental in developing NYC’s lithium-ion battery task force • Focused on responder exposure, toxic gases, and real-world fire behavior Contact: • LinkedIn, Instagram, Facebook (search John Orlando – Orlando Safety Solutions) Some more info on this product: https://thehazmatguys.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Obexion-FR-Product-Sheet.pptx https://thehazmatguys.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/Obexion-AG-Info-Sheet.pdf https://thehazmatguys.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/DGeoxSoteria-Testing-Report-30-gallon-poly-drum-Final.pdf https://www.labelmaster.com/obexionfr Segment Breakdown & Timestamps 0:17 – 2:04 | Introductions & Backgrounds • Meet the guests and their professional paths • John Orlando’s transition from fire suppression to fire investigation • Why lithium-ion batteries became a major focus post-2016 2:05 – 6:22 | The Battery Fire Problem • Why lithium-ion battery fires are underreported • The rise of e-bikes, scooters, and consumer devices • Limitations of sand, water, vermiculite, and salt baths 6:23 – 11:20 | Why Traditional Methods Fall Short • Weight and transport challenges of water- and sand-filled drums • Re-ignition risks due to stranded energy • Firefighter exposure to toxic gases and VOCs 11:21 – 13:44 | A New Approach to Mitigation • Introduction to reactive substrates like Accugrain • How materials activate at ~60°C • Filtering toxic gases, acids, and VOCs during thermal runaway 13:44 – 17:00 | Testing, Data, and Validation • Third-party lab testing at 100% state of charge • Simulating worst-case “jet engine” thermal runaway scenarios • EPA testing showing reduced HF and VOC levels 17:01 – 19:55 | The Scale of the Problem • Why every structure fire is now a lithium-ion incident • Fire statistics continuing to rise year over year • The disconnect between awareness and reality 19:56 – 20:49 | Managing Large Battery Volumes • Handling hundreds of batteries safely • DOT-compliant poly bins designed for high-energy loads • Long-term storage and roadway transport considerations 20:50 – 23:22 | Deployment for First Responders • What should be carried on chief vehicles vs. hazmat units • Why fire departments—not civilians—should handle overpacking • Making battery mitigation as standard as axes and Halligans 23:22 – 24:06 | Closing Thoughts & Contact Info • Where responders can learn more • Encouragement to test, verify, and adopt safer solutions • Final thanks and wrap-up Key Takeaways • Lithium-ion battery fires are not rare events—they’re embedded in modern fire response. • Traditional suppression methods may cool flames but do not neutralize toxicity or re-ignition risks. • Reactive materials that cool, encapsulate, and filter gases can dramatically improve responder safety. • Every department should rethink its standard equipment loadout to include battery mitigation tools.

    24 min

  4. JAN 30

    THMG533 – AI for the Win Again | Part I

    We had great traction with the last AI episode, so we dived a little deeper and created a miniseries on the topic. More to come on this one, so strap in, this landscape is shifting quickly. EPISODE SPONSORSRigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders facing unknown hazards. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in difficult samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform expands accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.https://www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology ensures rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.https://defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices delivers handheld chemical analysis tools addressing fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial hazards, and global security threats. Responders use these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards—bulk or trace—directly at the point of need.https://www.908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while maintaining safe gas levels.https://www.obexionfr.comFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Fire Suppression Solutions, based in Slinger, Wisconsin, is the U.S. master distributor for advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven through testing to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires. Products include A & B fire solutions and BSI-rated systems across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.https://www.firesuppressionsolutions.comTRAINING & RESOURCESthehazmatguys.comthehazmatguys.com/trainingthehazmatguys.com/contactBOOKS & PRODUCTSNHERD Volume 1 — linkNHERD Volume 2 — linkAre You Compliant? — linkBuilding a HazMat Team — linkYou Suck at Teaching HazMat — linkNERHD: The Game — linkMEDIA NETWORKHazard Class — linkIndustrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder — linkMERCHthehazmatguys.com/storeFOLLOWFacebook — linkInstagram — linkLinkedIn — linkYouTube — linkDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Sport Rock & Workout

    24 min

  5. JAN 23

    THMG532 – A.I. in Haz Mat Response

    In this episode, Mike sits down with Bob to explore how AI can be applied in today's response landscape. Even if you're already working with AI, there's a good chance you'll discover some fresh insights along the way.EPISODE SPONSORSRigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders facing unknown hazards. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in difficult samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform expands accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.https://www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology ensures rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.https://defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices delivers handheld chemical analysis tools addressing fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial hazards, and global security threats. Responders use these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards—bulk or trace—directly at the point of need.https://www.908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while maintaining safe gas levels.https://www.obexionfr.comFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Fire Suppression Solutions, based in Slinger, Wisconsin, is the U.S. master distributor for advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven through testing to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires. Products include A & B fire solutions and BSI-rated systems across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.https://www.firesuppressionsolutions.comTRAINING & RESOURCESthehazmatguys.comthehazmatguys.com/trainingthehazmatguys.com/contactBOOKS & PRODUCTSNHERD Volume 1 — linkNHERD Volume 2 — linkAre You Compliant? — linkBuilding a HazMat Team — linkYou Suck at Teaching HazMat — linkNERHD: The Game — linkMEDIA NETWORKHazard Class — linkIndustrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder — linkMERCHthehazmatguys.com/storeFOLLOWFacebook — linkInstagram — linkLinkedIn — linkYouTube — linkDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™

    32 min

  6. JAN 16

    THMG531 – Neutrons Part II

    Rigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders operating in unknown environments. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in challenging samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform builds on years of hazmat and public safety experience with expanded accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.More info: www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology delivers rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.More info: defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices is redefining chemical analysis with simple handheld tools addressing critical health and safety challenges, including fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial chemicals, and global security threats. Responders rely on these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of hazards—bulk or trace—at the point of need.More info: 908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires, developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while keeping toxic gas levels within safe limits.Learn more: ObexionFRFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Based in Slinger, Wisconsin, Fire Suppression Solutions is the U.S. master distributor for multiple advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires through validated testing. Products include solutions rated for A & B fires and BSI-tested across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.More info: Fire Suppression Solutions Training & ResourcesHazMatters Training: Course catalog | Online courses | Schedule a consultBooks & ProductsNHERD Vol. 1 & 2 | Are You Compliant? | Building a HazMat Team | You Suck at Teaching HazMat | NERHD: The GameMedia NetworkHazard Class | Industrial Strength: Haz Mat HarderMerchSupport the network: ShopConnectFacebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTubeDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™

    28 min

  7. JAN 9

    THMG530 – Neutrons Part I

    Rigaku Analytical DevicesRigaku provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders operating in unknown environments. Their 1064 nm Raman technology reduces fluorescence interference, enabling chemical identification in under a minute—even in challenging samples. Rigaku’s fourth-generation platform builds on years of hazmat and public safety experience with expanded accessory support to help teams assess hazards faster and safer.More info: www.rigakuanalytical.comTeledyne FLIR DefenseCBRNE threats don’t wait for safe locations. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips responders, security professionals, and military personnel with real-time detection tools for mobile, fixed, and covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to autonomous bio-monitors, their technology delivers rapid threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment.More info: defense.flir.com908 Devices908 Devices is redefining chemical analysis with simple handheld tools addressing critical health and safety challenges, including fentanyl exposure, toxic industrial chemicals, and global security threats. Responders rely on these devices to rapidly detect, identify, and monitor thousands of hazards—bulk or trace—at the point of need.More info: 908devices.comObexionFRObexionFR is a mobile solution for lithium-ion battery fires, developed by former FDNY HazMat experts. It neutralizes fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel—cooling batteries, isolating oxygen, and preventing re-ignition while keeping toxic gas levels within safe limits.Learn more: ObexionFRFire Suppression Solutions (FSS)Based in Slinger, Wisconsin, Fire Suppression Solutions is the U.S. master distributor for multiple advanced suppression technologies. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies delivers TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), proven to extinguish lithium-ion battery fires through validated testing. Products include solutions rated for A & B fires and BSI-tested across 10 categories, including lithium-ion batteries.More info: Fire Suppression Solutions Training & ResourcesHazMatters Training: Course catalog | Online courses | Schedule a consultBooks & ProductsNHERD Vol. 1 & 2 | Are You Compliant? | Building a HazMat Team | You Suck at Teaching HazMat | NERHD: The GameMedia NetworkHazard Class | Industrial Strength: Haz Mat HarderMerchSupport the network: ShopConnectFacebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | YouTubeDon’t just get on the job. Get into it.™

    23 min

  8. JAN 2

    THMG529 – Energy Storage systems

    After hearing about a recent conflagration in Warwick, NY, we went and did a little research on some of the recent ones and the outcomes from them.   Thank you to our sponsor for this episode: Rigaku   Rigaku Analytical Devices provides handheld Raman analyzers for first responders who face the unknown.  Rigaku’s 1064 nm Raman technology reducesfluorescence interference, helping responders identify chemicals in under a minute, even in challenging samples. Rigaku’s new, fourth-generation platform buildson years of experience with hazmat and public safety users, offering expanded accessory support to help teams assess hazards even quicker and safer.  For more information, visit www.rigakuanalytical.com. Teledyne FLIR Defense CBRNE threats don’t wait for a safe location. Teledyne FLIR Defense equips security professionals, responders, and military personnel with reliable, real-time detection tools designed for mobile, fixed, or covert deployment. From handheld trace detectors to networked autonomousbio-monitors, our technology ensures fast threat recognition and evidence-quality documentation in any environment. For more information, visit defense.flir.com.  908 Devices 908 Devices is revolutionizing chemical analysis with its simple handheld devices, addressing some of the most critical problems in vital health and safety applications, such as the fentanyl and illicit drug crisis, toxic carcinogen exposure, and global security threats. First responders use our devices torapidly and accurately detect, identify, and monitor thousands of chemical hazards, in any form, bulk or trace, at the point of need. For more information visit 908devices.com.    ObexionFR ObexionFR is a mobile solution for first responders dealingwith lithium battery fires, created by former FDNY Hazmat experts. It uses advanced science to neutralize fires by addressing heat, oxygen, and fuel, quickly containing and extinguishing them while keeping toxic gas levels safe.The process cools the battery, isolates oxygen, and prevents further ignition, providing a reliable tool for challenging battery fire incidents. Check it out.   FSS  Fire Suppression Solutions, based out of Slinger, Wisconsin is the U.S. master distributer for multiple game-changingsolutions that help protect communities, businesses, and individuals. Their partnership with LifeSafe Technologies has delivered TRF (Thermal Runaway Fluid), a product that has proved to extinguish Lithium-ion battery fires.  Yes, it's a bold claim, but they have the testing to back it up.  To learn moreabout this and their other lifesaving products, visit FireSuppression Solutions.  A and B fires,  BSI for 10 categories including lithium-ion batteries   HazMatters: If you’re looking for the best training around, Schedule a chat with our kick-ass sales team to get exactly what your crew needs. Download our course catalog here.Click here for 1-pagers on each course. Check out our online courses. Vendors: Want to advertise on this podcast or any of the other shows under our umbrella? Request more informationto make some moves on this market. Let’s get your message out there. Hey NERDs! Get your know on: NHERD Volume 1, NHERD2Volume 2,  Are You Compliant?? Building A Hazmat Team, You Suck At Teaching HazMat, NERHD The Game New Shows Under the Haz Mat Guys Media Umbrella: Hazard Class Show, Industrial Strength Show | Haz Mat Harder Conference, You Say? Mark your calendars: February 3-5, 2026. Introducing... The Southern Most Hazmat Conference! Click HERE to book your spot today! Grab Some SWAG Support THMG, Hazard Class, HMAF, andmore with some killer swag. Shop now. Follow uson the socials: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube Thanks for listening and watching! Don’t just get on the job, get into it.™

    21 min
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4.9
out of 5
11 Ratings

About

From a spark of knowledge on a podcast to a comprehensive training hub, we empower responders of all levels in the ever-evolving world of hazmat response. Through hundreds of episodes, online courses, and in-person programs, we bridge the gap between novice and expert, fostering a collaborative community of continuous learning. Together, we equip responders with the skills and knowledge to navigate hazardous situations safely and effectively.

Information

  • Creator
    Bobby Salvesen and Mike Monaco
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    533
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Bobby Salvesen and Mike Monaco
  • Show Website
    The HazMat Guys

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