Guide
Dispose of hazardous waste
How to classify, store, and dispose of hazardous waste from your business premises in compliance with the Hazardous Waste Regulations 2005. Covers consignment notes, using authorised facilities, and the stricter record-keeping requirements that apply to hazardous waste.
If your business produces waste that is dangerous to human health or the environment, it is almost certainly classified as hazardous waste. This includes common items such as waste oils, solvents, batteries, fluorescent tubes, electrical equipment containing refrigerants, and asbestos.
Hazardous waste has stricter legal requirements than ordinary commercial waste. You must classify it correctly, store it safely, and ensure it is collected by a carrier specifically registered to handle hazardous waste. Every movement must be tracked using a consignment note, and your records must be kept for longer than standard waste transfer notes.
Getting this wrong is a criminal offence. Incorrect classification, using unregistered carriers, or failing to complete consignment notes can result in unlimited fines and prosecution of directors personally.
Classify your waste correctly
Before you can dispose of hazardous waste, you must identify exactly what it is. Classification uses European Waste Catalogue (EWC) codes - six-digit codes from the List of Wastes Regulations 2005. Some waste codes are marked with an asterisk (*), meaning the waste is always hazardous regardless of concentration. Other codes have both hazardous and non-hazardous versions (called "mirror entries"), and you must assess the waste against 15 hazard properties (HP1 to HP15) to determine which applies.
The Environment Agency's technical guidance document WM3 sets out the methodology you should follow. If your waste contains chemicals or you are unsure of its composition, commission a specialist waste analyst to carry out the assessment.
Store hazardous waste safely
While awaiting collection, you must store hazardous waste securely on your premises:
- Segregate from non-hazardous waste: Never mix different types of hazardous waste together, or with non-hazardous waste
- Use appropriate containers: Containers must be suitable for the waste type, clearly labelled with the EWC code, and in good condition with no leaks
- Secure the storage area: Prevent unauthorised access, protect from weather, and ensure containment in case of spills (bunding for liquids)
- Time limits: You can store hazardous waste at your premises for up to 12 months before it must be removed (shorter if you hold more than 50 cubic metres at any time, which requires an environmental permit)
Use authorised carriers and facilities
You must only hand hazardous waste to a carrier who is specifically registered to carry hazardous waste. A standard waste carrier registration is not sufficient. Check the Environment Agency's public register before using any carrier.
The waste must go to a facility that holds the correct environmental permit to accept and treat or dispose of that specific type of hazardous waste. Your carrier should confirm the destination facility before collection.
Complete consignment notes
Every movement of hazardous waste requires a consignment note, not a standard waste transfer note. This is a five-part document (Parts A to E) that tracks the waste from your premises to its final destination:
- Parts A and B: You (the producer) complete these before the waste is collected, including the EWC code, quantity, hazard properties, and your details
- Part C: The carrier completes this on collection
- Part D: Used if the waste passes through a transfer station
- Part E: The receiving facility (consignee) completes this on acceptance
The consignment note must be prepared before the waste is moved. You should receive confirmation from the receiving facility that they have accepted the waste.
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Identify and classify your hazardous waste
List all waste streams your business produces and identify which may be hazardous. Use EWC codes from the List of Wastes Regulations. For mirror entries, assess against the 15 hazard properties using the WM3 technical guidance. Commission a specialist analyst if you are unsure.
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Check your carrier is registered for hazardous waste
Search the Environment Agency's public register to verify your waste carrier holds an upper-tier registration that covers hazardous waste. Ask for their registration number and keep a record. Do not use any carrier who cannot provide these details.
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Complete consignment notes before collection
Fill in Parts A and B of the consignment note for every collection. Include the correct EWC code, quantity, hazard properties, your premises details, and the destination facility. Keep your copy securely filed.
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Keep records for the required retention periods
Retain consignment notes for a minimum of 3 years as a waste producer. Keep a register of all hazardous waste removed from your premises. If you also receive hazardous waste, those records must be kept for 5 years.
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Confirm receipt at the destination facility
Follow up to ensure the receiving facility has accepted the waste and completed Part E of the consignment note. If you do not receive confirmation within one month, contact the carrier and the Environment Agency.