It is unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, municipal corporation, or other governmental subdivision or agency to operate a solid waste incineration or landfill facility unless an operator in responsible charge is duly certified by the director under this chapter or any lawful rule or order of the department. The department shall allow the owner or operator of a landfill or solid waste incineration facility to request a variance from this requirement under emergency conditions. Emergency conditions may include but are not limited to unexpected health related problems that incapacitate the operator or an unexpected termination of employment of the operator. The department may impose conditions that may be necessary to protect human health and the environment during the term of the variance.