New Hazardous chemical classifications come into force today (June 1).  The European Classification, Labelling & Packaging (CLP) Regulations will take effect in the UK bringing us in line with the rest of the world. As part of the Global Harmonisation System (GHS) standardising chemical classifications, these new regulations form part of a United Nations agreement back in 2002.

New hazardous labelling – gone have the orange labels

Although waste materials are exempt from some aspects of CLP, the classification of waste must be based on the EU Chemical Classification legislation.  The hazard pictograms have already changed in line with this.

To reflect the changes in dangerous substances directive, WM2, the guidance on the classification of waste has been superseded by WM3 Waste Classification & Assessment – Technical Guidance; this new system of chemical classification is based on hazard classes, categories and statement codes rather than previous risk phrases and categories of danger.

In order that WasteCare and their clients comply with the new regulations the company has re-evaluated the hazard codes of over 2,000 different waste streams that the company handles, identifying the new codes and assessing any changes to hazard status. If you have any concerns as to the correct identification, classification or labelling of waste please visit the Government website:  www.hseni.gov.uk/new-clp-symbols.pdf or contact our technical team, headed by Stuart McNish: email Stuart.McNish@wastecare.co.uk

What impact do these changes have on you?

When CLP methodology is applied, some waste materials which were previously considered non-hazardous waste may now be regarded hazardous.  For the WasteCare technical team to reassess your waste streams in line with WM3 Technical guidance we’ll need to review all components of your waste. It is always helpful if you have MSDS sheets, details on how your waste is produced, chemical composition and any other information that will help us to assess your waste. Where necessary samples will have to be taken and analysed.

The WasteCare technical team are at hand to offer you guidance and will make every effort to ensure you remain compliant.

Your paperwork will change from H Codes to new CLP Hazardous Property  or HP codes on June 1st, these are determined by the Hazardous statements and thresholds of the hazardous properties.  Similar to the old H Codes, some new properties have been added and some materials will change their classification.

More information can be found in WM3 Technical Guidance which can be found on our website: www.wastecare.co.uk/other-services/technical-team/

Don’t forget – we are here to help.