Our Institute's History

The Hazardous Materials Institute was founded by Battalion Chief Rich Harlan, recently retired from the Roseville City Fire Department in the northern region of California. Chief Harlan enjoyed a long career in the fire service with much of it being spent on Roseville City’s Type One Hazardous Materials Response Team. As a team specialist and coordinator, he saw extensive work within the city’s large industrial component and major west coast railway hub. An expert in all aspects of hazardous materials response Chief Harlan now teaches at a local college. Mr. Harlan understands the importance of OSHA-mandated training for all employees working with hazardous materials and strives to bring his field knowledge to the classroom setting.