With the full title ‘Technical Guidance WM3: Guidance on classification and assessment of waste’ – new guidance was published last week. Drafted jointly by the UK environment agencies (Environment Agency, Natural Resources Wales, Northern Ireland Environment Agency and Scottish Environmental Protection Agency) it applies across the UK.
In our opinion story in April Clearview, Alex Husbands of Aquaforce Recycling explained that the change is driven by European Regulation (EC) No 1272/2008 (otherwise known as the CLP regulation) on classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures. This came into force on 20th January 2009 across the EU. The CLP Regulation adopts the United Nations’ Globally Harmonised System on Classification and Labelling of Chemicals (GHS) across all European Union countries, including the UK.
The publication of WM3 came just two weeks before implementation is required, leaving industry very little time to digest the guidance. However, given the uncertainty, the regulator has indicated they will initially operate a light-touch approach.
Therefore we repeat the advice of our earlier article from Alex Husbands: “Lightness of touch depends very much on the type of relationship you have with your Environment Agency officer. So, to ensure you don’t put your compliance record at risk, first, finding an introductory WM3 course from a recognised training supplier is recommended. Secondly, have a very good packet of biscuits waiting for your Environment Agency officer next time they visit your site.”
Contact us at Clarity to find out about our compliance schemes on 0845 129 7177.
