How to classify and assess waste

As part of your waste duty of care you must classify the waste your business produces:

  • before it is collected, disposed of or recovered
  • to identify the controls that apply to the movement of the waste
  • to complete waste documents and records
  • to identify suitably authorised waste management options
  • to prevent harm to people and the environment

You should use this guidance if you produce, manage or regulate waste.

When completing waste documentation the waste must be classified using a code.

The guidance will help you select the correct code for the waste and in particular decide whether the waste is hazardous or non-hazardous.

Find your codes in Guidance on the classification and assessment of waste (1st Edition v1.2 GB) Technical Guidance WM3 (Gov.uk)

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