Key Changes
The main de-regulatory aspects compared to the previous system are:
- Removal of the need for pre-notification of hazardous wastes to The Environment Agency
- Removal of the requirement to send a Deposit Copy to The Environment Agency confirming receipt of each consignment of waste at the storage and/or disposal site
- Removal of the requirement to pay The Environment Agency in advance for individual Consignment Codes
The features of the special waste system retained for hazardous waste, albeit with some changes, are
- Consignment notes for each collection
- Copies required to be completed at each stage of the waste movement and retained by the Producer, Carrier and Consignee (i.e. those receiving the waste)
- Provision of information on consignments to The Environment Agency (although in a different way to previously, as outlined below)
- Charges for each consignment of hazardous waste collected (although at different levels as described below)
- Procedure for rejection of consignments
- Prohibition of mixing different categories of hazardous waste with each and with non-hazardous wastes
The new and additional requirements brought in by the new Regulations include
- Changes to the way hazardous waste is defined
- Requirement for producers of hazardous wastes to notify premises to The Environment Agency (unless exempt – see below)
- Additional information required in the Consignment Note e.g. Producer Premises Code, Carriage of Dangerous Goods information, SIC (standard Industrial Classification) Code for each producer
- Confirmation of deposit at the receiving site (whether transfer station or final disposal) to be provided to the Producer
- Quarterly returns to the Environment Agency by those receiving wastes (consignees)
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Fixed penalties where offences are committed
