The HazMat Guys Podcast By Bobby Salvesen and Mike Monaco cover art

The HazMat Guys

The HazMat Guys

By: Bobby Salvesen and Mike Monaco
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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.Bobby Salvesen and Mike Monaco Education
Episodes
  • THMG540 – Top 10 Chemicals on Road

    THMG540 – Top 10 Chemicals on Road
    Mar 20 2026
    Jake takes the lead in this episode to break down the top 10 chemicals you’re most likely to encounter on the road in the United States, and why knowing what’s around you matters.We count down from #10 to #1, unpacking the most common roadside chemicals and what makes each one noteworthy along the way. It’s a fast-moving discussion built around real-world exposure and the kinds of materials you might pass every day while driving or traveling across the U.S. As you listen, you can guess what you think the #1 chemical will be, place your bets, and see if you’re right when we reveal it. We also sprinkle in a few cool facts as we go to keep things interesting and memorable. If you’re curious about what’s actually out there on American roads, and want a fun countdown format, this one’s for you.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 NETWORKCommand Media Network — linkHazard 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
    Show more Show less
    27 mins
  • THMG539 – The Plot Thickens...

    THMG539 – The Plot Thickens...
    Mar 13 2026

    Cybersecurity isn’t just an IT problem, it can directly affect your hazmat operation and the safety decisions you make every day. In this episode, we pause amid everything happening in the world to talk about why cyber risks matter in hazardous materials work.


    Also, quick heads-up: the show’s format is shifting a bit. We’ll be bringing on regular guests, and some episodes will have Bob and/or Mike stepping back so others can jump in with their own takes and opinions. We hope you enjoy the change, stick around, and keep growing with us.


    EPISODE SPONSORS

    Rigaku Analytical Devices

    Rigaku 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.

    Teledyne FLIR Defense

    CBRNE 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.

    908 Devices

    908 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.

    ObexionFR

    ObexionFR 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.

    Fire 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.

    TRAINING & RESOURCES

    BOOKS & PRODUCTS

    NHERD Volume 1 —

    NHERD Volume 2 —

    Are You Compliant? —

    Building a HazMat Team —

    You Suck at Teaching HazMat —

    NERHD: The Game —

    MEDIA NETWORK

    Command Media Network —

    Hazard Class —

    Industrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder —

    MERCH

    FOLLOW

    Facebook —

    Instagram —

    LinkedIn —

    YouTube —

    Don’t just get on the job. Get into it.™Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Sport Rock & Workout
    Show more Show less
    26 mins
  • THMG538: Mailbag

    THMG538: Mailbag
    Mar 6 2026

    In this episode, Mike’s off on assignment, so Bob gets to team up with Jake again—and we’re kind of hoping this turns into a regular thing. It’s four quick questions pulled from the old mailbag, and it always gets things moving. Give it a listen.


    1. How important is actual chemistry in hazmat response?

    2. What the hell does octane mean on the gas pump?

    3. What tools are non-negotiable when dealing with unknowns?

    4. Can something melt below its freezing point?


    Also, quick heads-up: the show’s format is shifting a bit. We’ll be bringing on regular guests, and some episodes will have Bob and/or Mike stepping back so others can jump in with their own takes and opinions. We hope you enjoy the change, stick around, and keep growing with us.


    EPISODE SPONSORS

    Rigaku Analytical Devices

    Rigaku 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.

    Teledyne FLIR Defense

    CBRNE 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.

    908 Devices

    908 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.

    ObexionFR

    ObexionFR 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.

    Fire 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.

    TRAINING & RESOURCES

    BOOKS & PRODUCTS

    NHERD Volume 1 —

    NHERD Volume 2 —

    Are You Compliant? —

    Building a HazMat Team —

    You Suck at Teaching HazMat —

    NERHD: The Game —

    MEDIA NETWORK

    Command Media Network —

    Hazard Class —

    Industrial Strength: Haz Mat Harder —

    MERCH

    FOLLOW

    Facebook —

    Instagram —

    LinkedIn —

    YouTube —

    Don’t just get on the job. Get into it.™Music from #InAudio: https://inaudio.org/Sport Rock & Workout
    Show more Show less
    29 mins
All stars
Most relevant
and enjoyable show packed with knowledge and experience in the HazMat field. Never a dull episode and always something new to learn.

Educational and entertaining

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