As we approach the end of the five year derogation for the transport of clinical waste, rumours have recently been circulating that a further extension had been agreed. SMDSA’s members and the industry in general have spent millions of pounds in design, development, testing, and purchase/production of containers and vehicles to ensure that full compliance is achieved before the deadline.

The SMDSA have sought clarification from both HSE and DTLR. The following extract from a statement by DTLR was issued at the end of June:

"There has been some recent speculation that the deadline for compliance with these requirements in the UK has been extended from 1 January 2002 to 1 January 2003. This appears to result from some misunderstanding of discussions between the European Commission and the Member States in December last. DTLR has confirmed with the European Commission that there is no extension of the national derogation for the transport of clinical waste beyond 1 January 2002. The contents of this paper have been agreed with the Health and Safety Executive."