SR2022 No 4

Several standard rules permits have been revised by the Environment Agency in 2024/25 replacing older versions. This permit is suitable for mixed waste such as skip waste and replaces SR 2015 No 6.

The Standard Rules Environmental Permit SR2022 No 4, titled “Non-Hazardous Waste Recycling with Asbestos, Hazardous Batteries, Cable, and WEEE Storage”. This was introduced by the Environment Agency in 2022. This permit consolidates and replaces seven previous standard rules permits. This streamlines waste management processes and also enhances regulatory clarity.

Scope & Activities Covered

SR2022 No 4 authorizes facilities to engage in the treatment and recycling of non-hazardous waste. Additionally, it also permits the storage and transfer of specific hazardous wastes, including:

• Asbestos: Handling and storage of asbestos-containing materials.
• Hazardous Batteries: Storage of batteries classified as hazardous due to their chemical composition.
• Cables: Storage of waste cables, which may contain hazardous substances.
• Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE): Storage of electronic waste that falls under hazardous categories.

The permit outlines specific conditions and operational standards to ensure that these activities are conducted safely and therefore in compliance with environmental regulations.

Consolidation Of Previous Permits

The introduction of SR2022 No 4 serves to replace the following seven standard rules permits:

1. SR2008 No 3: 75kte Household, Commercial, and Industrial Waste Transfer Station with Treatment.
2. SR2008 No 5: 75kte Household, Commercial, and Industrial Waste Transfer Station and Asbestos Storage.
3. SR2008 No 7: 75kte Household, Commercial, and Industrial Waste Transfer Stations with Treatment and Asbestos Storage.
4. SR2011 No 1: 75kte Non-Hazardous Waste Transfer Station with Treatment.
5. SR2011 No 3: 75kte Non-Hazardous Waste Transfer Station with Treatment and Asbestos Storage.
6. SR2015 No 18: 75kte Non-Hazardous Waste Transfer Station with Treatment and Asbestos Storage.
7. SR2015 No 19: 75kte Non-Hazardous Waste Transfer Station with Treatment.

By consolidating these permits, the Environment Agency therefore aims to simplify the regulatory framework, making it more straightforward for operators to understand and comply with the requirements.

Key Changes & Requirements

Operators holding the new SR2022 No 4 permit must adhere to updated conditions, including:

• Enclosed Building Requirement: All treatment and storage activities involving the specified wastes must occur within an enclosed building. This change addresses concerns about environmental emissions and site security. Notably, structures with only three sides and a roof no longer meet the definition of an enclosed building under this permit. ac-environmental.co.uk
• Location Restrictions: The permit imposes specific location-based criteria, such as minimum distances from sensitive receptors like residential areas and protected habitats. These restrictions aim to minimize potential environmental and public health impacts. gov.uk
• Dust and Emissions Management Plan: Operators are required to develop and implement a Dust and Emissions Management Plan in line with the Environment Agency’s guidance. This plan should detail measures to control and monitor emissions, ensuring they remain within permissible limits.

Transitional Provisions For Existing Permit Holders

Existing facilities operating under the previous permits are granted a transitional period to comply with the new SR2022 No 4 requirements. Operators must therefore assess their current operations against the updated conditions and, if necessary, make infrastructural or procedural adjustments to achieve compliance. Failure to align with the new standards within the stipulated timeframe may result in enforcement actions or the need to apply for a bespoke permit.

Implications For Waste Management Operators

The SR2022 No 4 permit reflects the Environment Agency’s commitment to enhancing environmental protection while providing a clear and efficient regulatory pathway for waste management operators. By consolidating multiple permits and updating operational requirements, the agency aims to:

• Improve Environmental Outcomes: Stricter controls and standardized practices are designed to reduce pollution and safeguard public health.
• Simplify Regulatory Compliance: A unified permit structure helps operators better understand their obligations, potentially reducing administrative burdens.
• Encourage Best Practices: The updated conditions promote the adoption of industry best practices, fostering continuous improvement in waste management operations.

Operators are encouraged to thoroughly review the SR2022 No 4 permit conditions and assess their facilities’ readiness to comply. Proactive engagement therefore with the Environment Agency and, if necessary, seeking professional advice can facilitate a smooth transition to the new regulatory framework.

Call us today for more information on applying for a standard rules permit.