Hazardous Materials Removal Workers

Task by task

Each task this job involves, as listed by O*NET, rated on whether a large language model like GPT-4 could cut the time it takes by at least half at the same quality. Tasks marked Seen in real AI use appeared in conversations with Claude in April–May 2026 (Anthropic Economic Index).

• AI can speed this up on its own: 1 (5%)
• AI can speed this up with extra software: 2 (10%)
• Little or no AI speed-up: 18 (86%)

• Record numbers of containers stored at disposal sites, specifying amounts or types of equipment or waste disposed.AI can speed this up on its own · supplemental task
• Identify asbestos, lead, or other hazardous materials to be removed, using monitoring devices.AI can speed this up with extra software · core task
• Organize or track the locations of hazardous items in landfills.AI can speed this up with extra software · supplemental task
• Build containment areas prior to beginning abatement or decontamination work.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Remove asbestos or lead from surfaces, using hand or power tools such as scrapers, vacuums, or high-pressure sprayers.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Prepare hazardous material for removal or storage.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Comply with prescribed safety procedures or federal laws regulating waste disposal methods.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Load or unload materials into containers or onto trucks, using hoists or forklifts.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Clean contaminated equipment or areas for reuse, using detergents or solvents, sandblasters, filter pumps, or steam cleaners.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Remove or limit contamination following emergencies involving hazardous substances.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Clean mold-contaminated sites by removing damaged porous materials or thoroughly cleaning all contaminated nonporous materials.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Operate machines or equipment to remove, package, store, or transport loads of waste materials.Little or no AI speed-up · core task
• Sort specialized hazardous waste at landfills or disposal centers, following proper disposal procedures.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Operate cranes to move or load baskets, casks, or canisters.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Drive trucks or other heavy equipment to convey contaminated waste to designated sea or ground locations.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Identify or separate waste products or materials for recycling or reuse.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Upload baskets of irradiated elements onto machines that insert fuel elements into canisters and secure lids.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Process e-waste, such as computer components containing lead or mercury.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Mix or pour concrete into forms to encase waste material for disposal.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Apply bioremediation techniques to hazardous wastes to allow naturally occurring bacteria to break down toxic substances.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task
• Package, store, or move irradiated fuel elements in the underwater storage basins of nuclear reactor plants, using machines or equipment.Little or no AI speed-up · supplemental task

Questions about hazardous materials removal workers and AI